Report

Teaser, summary, work performed and final results

Periodic Reporting for period 1 - Slim plus (Reduced platform lift enhancing accessibility for disable citizens)

Teaser

An aging society leads to a growing number of people with mobility impairments. Architectonical barriers are a big problem for elderly and disabled using wheelchairs. In public or private buildings elevators are not always present. We studied the alternatives to move between...

Summary

An aging society leads to a growing number of people with mobility impairments. Architectonical barriers are a big problem for elderly and disabled using wheelchairs. In public or private buildings elevators are not always present. We studied the alternatives to move between floors. Based on end-users needs we consider platform stairlifts the most versatile solution. Other methods (chair stairlifts, stairclimbers, climbing wheelchairs) have limitations in safety, comfort, independence, accessibility, energy use and speed. Current platform stairlifts cannot be placed in narrow staircases and are not able to move up a high number of floors. Our design SLIM+ is very compact. Thanks to a number of innovations (breaking system, material for key components, stabilizing system) we reduce the friction coefficient drastically. This makes the system energy efficient (-50% power consumption) and allows SLIM+ to move up more floors using the same motor. Our rope-pulled drive system makes that our machine does not vibrate and is comfortable. The first prototype tests are promising, but we will need more testing to optimize our design and make it ready for production. Extrema will install a new assembly line for the production of SLIM+. 5 years after market introduction we will sell 1500 SLIM+ platform stairlifts worldwide; turnover will be 18,2M€ and EBT for SLIM+ will be 4,19 M€. ROI will be 2,01 in 2025. We will add 15 people to our staff.

Work performed

During this period we studied:
1. Technical Viability Plan including: Technology description (SLIM+ innovations); State of the Art (competing solutions and drive technologies); Current State of Development of SLIM+; Product Performance Specifications; Production costs; Work Plan for Phase II; Risk Analysis and mitigation plan
2.a Market Analysis including: market overview and dimensions, end users definition, market segmentation, market barriers and opportunities, USPs, competitors
2.b Business Plan, including value chain, Revenue streams, sales structure & price policy
2.c Commercial Strategy, including Exploitation, dissemination and communication plans
2.d Financial Feasibility, including project financing, sales forecasts and benefits for end users
3. Freedom to operate

Final results

With SLIM+ we intend to increase the accessibility and independence for wheelchair users. Our platform stairlifts can be placed in small staircases, reach higher floors, consume less energy, have lower operation costs, make less noise and are more comfortable.

Website & more info

More info: http://www.extrema.it.