From devices currently in production to concept vehicles fresh off the drawing board, this year’s Red Dot Award Winners turn a spotlight on personal mobility — and the need to improve the independence and safety of mobility tech users.
“The distinction ‘Red Dot’ has become established internationally as one of the most sought-after seals of quality for good design,” the Red Dot organization said in announcing 2024 winners. The awards competition has three categories —product design; brands and communication design; and design concept categories — and is held annually.
This selection of 2024’s mobility winners includes walking aids, power mobility, and adaptive automotive devices. Check out winners in durable medical equipment categories in coverage from HME Business. Click on the winning entries’ names to see their entire Red Dot entries.
Images courtesy Red Dot Design Awards.
Intelligent Standing Scooter
A mobility device “primarily for the elderly and people with lower-limb impairments,” this design “enables easy switching between different postures and is suitable for various body types.” It features an electromagnetic braking mechanism and a 360-degree joystick. Judges praised the scooter’s “user-oriented, ergonomic and compact design” from manufacturer Zhejiang Fubang Technology Company in China.
Liftable Electric Wheelchair
This concept power wheelchair submitted by the Shenzhen Institute of Information Technology in China has seat elevation “for stable access to high and low objects” and a built-in battery with wireless charging. The primary demographic for the Liftable chair is amputees, the university’s entry stated. According to an artist’s rendering sent to Red Dot, the back of the power chair can be reclined to serve as a transfer board-like aid for the wheelchair rider. Other safety features include “an advanced braking system,” an adjustable seatbelt, and an “anti-tilt mechanism,” seemingly to prevent the chair from tipping backward.
Rivendell Intelligent Electronic Wheelchair
Designers at Gannan Normal University in China chose an “ergonomic triangular” shape to ensure stability, and lightweight materials to enhance the portability of this design concept. The power chair has shock-absorbing springs, adjustable parts to facilitate its customization for different users, and one-handed operation. “Equipped with an intelligent control system, it achieves precise operation and a better driving experience, with detachable components that simplify maintenance,” the entry for the Red Dot program said.
TRNO Automotive Wheelchair
Designer Tianni Huo described the TRNO as “a dual-purpose electric wheelchair that meets automotive seat safety standards and facilitates autonomous entry and exit from vehicles.” Accordingly, the TRNO features floor track locks and safety belts to function as both a wheelchair and a car seat. “Its design eliminates the need for seat transfers, promoting independence while enhancing comfort and ergonomic support in line with automotive standards,” Red Dot said.
Halo Cane
This “intelligent walking cane with a smartphone” automatically calculates ground or stair height and adjusts its height accordingly to reduce the risk of falling. Designed by Claire Ko at the Royal College of Art in the United Kingdom, the Halo uses a laser range sensor to calculate the height of the ground. The cane’s height can be displayed on the user’s smartphone, while the cane’s design reduces pressure on the senior’s arms and encourages more upright posture when climbing stairs.
Tip Device
The Tip Device design concept is an accessibility interface that “allows cursor control through simple tongue movements,” said designers Taras Kosik and Sergey Roy from Tip Assistive Technologies. “The patented Tip sensor in the upper palate ensures ease of use, and its disposable mouth module is lightweight, ergonomic and hygienic.” AI is used to optimize cursor movement and to recognize movements such as text input, drawing and internet use. The device uses soft silicone headsets and adjustable ear hooks to increase user comfort, even during long-time use.
Journey walker
This mobility aid design concept is a multi-tasker: It supports walking and also enhances physical fitness, according to its South Korean designers, Kim Jiho and Bhang Youngjoon. The Journey provides directions and route suggestions for its user while tracking walking posture. The walker features ergonomic sidebars, a foldable seat, and omni-wheels.
