What it does
SIT2STAND is a compact and portable support device that helps people with reduced mobility stand up safely and independently. It combines ergonomic design, and durable materials to enhance autonomy without relying on electric or permanent installations.
Your inspiration
Our inspiration came from a teammate’s personal experience—his father was diagnosed with ALS. This deeply moved us to explore practical solutions that could improve daily life for people with reduced mobility, promoting dignity, autonomy, and safety.
How it works
SIT2STAND is a portable support device that helps people with reduced mobility stand up from a seated position more easily and safely It consists of a strong metal bar covered in a non-slip rubber grip, which is attached to the side of a chair using a secure clamp. At the top of the bar, there is a round, comfortable handle that the user can hold onto to push themselves up. The bar can rotate and adjust to the user’s preferred angle thanks to a built-in joint (called a “ball joint”), making it easy to use from different positions. The clamp attaches to most types of chairs without tools and can be removed or adjusted quickly. All materials were chosen for strength, comfort, and durability, including stainless steel for structure, polyurethane for soft contact surfaces, and a biodegradable plastic for the handle. No electricity is needed, and the device is lightweight and easy to transport, making it ideal for use at home, in public places, or during travel.
Design process
Our design process began by clearly defining the problem: creating an assisted standing system for individuals with reduced mobility. We then identified key functions the device needed to fulfill, aiming for a complete and practical solution. We sketched multiple concepts and developed initial prototypes. Early designs were often too complex, bulky, or difficult to transport, limiting their practicality. To address this, we shifted to a simpler concept—a push bar that provides intermediate support to help users stand safely and easily from any chair. We refined the prototype by incorporating a ball joint for adjustable angles and a secure clamp adaptable to most chairs. Material selection focused on strength, comfort, and sustainability. This iterative process led to a lightweight, portable, and user-friendly device, demonstrating that simplicity can deliver effective assistance.
How it is different
What truly differentiates our design from other products on the market is its unique combination of simplicity, versatility, and portability. Many existing assisted standing devices tend to be either large, expensive, or fixed solutions that are limited to specific locations, making them impractical for everyday use. In contrast, our product is compact and lightweight, designed to fit easily into a bag or backpack, occupying no more space than a standard umbrella. This portability allows users—such as elderly adults, individuals with injuries, or those in early stages of degenerative diseases—to carry and use the device whenever and wherever needed. Additionally, its secure clamp system adapts to most types of chairs without tools, enhancing its versatility. This focus on convenience, adaptability, and user-centered design clearly sets our solution apart from other alternatives.
Future plans
Our next steps focus on refining the design through user testing to ensure it truly meets the needs of those with reduced mobility. We aim to develop cost-effective manufacturing methods, including exploring local production, to make the device affordable and accessible to as many people as possible. Our priority is the health and well-being of users, ensuring everyone who needs assistance can benefit from SIT2STAND. In the future, we hope to expand our reach by partnering with healthcare organizations and community groups, helping improve independence and quality of life for people facing mobility challenges.
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