Staircases are an essential part of any building or infrastructure, but they can pose a significant challenge for wheelchair users. However, a new innovative stair design has emerged, which has the potential to solve this problem. This design can convert stairs into a ramp, providing wheelchair users with a smooth and hassle-free experience. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at this innovative stair design and its benefits.

When in stair mode, the device would consist of small ramp pieces that lay flat on each step. Once activated, the pieces would flip up at a 45-degree angle and connect to create a ramp.

The idea of converting stairs to wheelchair ramp devices is still in the concept stage, but it has the potential to be a valuable technology for people who use wheelchairs and need access to locations that don’t have a wheelchair ramp or an accessible entryway, particularly in cities.

The way it functions is that it starts off in stair mode, blending in with the attached staircase. When a lever is stepped on, it activates the mechanism, converting the stairs to ramp mode.

After the wheelchair user has completed using the ramp, the lever can be pressed again to transform it back into stairs. If the stairs are wide enough, the ramp could be left in place permanently. However, for narrower stairs, it would need to be switched back and forth between modes for each use.

Chan Wen Jie explains that the purpose of his design is to make it easier and more convenient for people with mobility issues, such as the elderly or those with difficulty walking, as well as those who need to move heavy objects on a cart or trolley, to climb stairs. The design aims to reduce the risk of falls and injuries.

Chan’s design, called “Convertible,” features a straightforward linkage mechanism that requires very little effort to operate, making it both fast and easy to use. This system is mounted directly onto pre-existing stairs and maximizes the use of space, time, and money when compared to building a new ramp. Convertible is designed to be low-cost, easy to install, and require minimal maintenance.

Chan Wen Jie is a designer from Nanyang Polytechnic who created the concept of converting stairs into a ramp as part of an Industrial Design course.

As of now, the converting stairs wheelchair ramp is still just a concept by the designer, and the product does not yet exist.

Benefits of the Innovative Stair Design:

The innovative stair design has many benefits, including:

1. Increased Accessibility: The primary benefit of this design is increased accessibility. With this design, wheelchair users can easily navigate stairs without needing assistance or additional equipment.
2. Improved Safety: Another significant benefit is improved safety. This design eliminates the need for wheelchair users to transfer themselves from their chairs to stairs, which can be dangerous and pose a risk of injury.
3. Cost-Effective: This design is also cost-effective, as it eliminates the need for additional infrastructure or equipment. Wheelchair users can access the stairs without any additional cost or burden.
4. Space-Saving: Finally, this design is space-saving, as it eliminates the need for a separate ramp or lifts. This design seamlessly integrates the ramp and stairs, which is ideal for buildings with limited space.

The only issue that people have raised regarding the converting stairs is that the ramp angle may be too steep to comfortably propel a wheelchair.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the innovative stair design is an ideal solution for wheelchair users who face difficulties when encountering stairs. It offers increased accessibility, improved safety, cost-effectiveness, and space-saving benefits. The design seamlessly integrates the ramp and stairs, providing a smooth and hassle-free experience for wheelchair users. With this design, we can create a more inclusive and accessible environment for everyone.