Good Thinking

Travel-savvy wheelchair folds to become a carry-on bag

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The original Traveller Chair prototype, in wheelchair mode
Traveller Chair
A diagram of the bag-to-wheelchair transformation process
Traveller Chair
The original Traveller Chair prototype, in wheelchair mode
Traveller Chair

Air travel can be difficult for the mobility-challenged … they either have to procure a wheelchair at the airport, or make sure that their own chair gets stowed in the luggage hold. British engineer Richard Williams has developed an alternative, in the form of a folding wheelchair that doubles as a carry-on bag.

Known as the Traveller Chair, the device features an aluminum frame, and reportedly tips the scales at approximately 6 kg (13 lb).

When being used primarily as a bag, it can be carried via either a built-in handle or a shoulder strap, offering a cargo capacity of about 17 liters. It also has an "easy-to-reach" pouch for travel documents. According to Williams, its folded-up dimensions allow it to fit in a plane's overhead locker, meeting the carry-on requirements of over 40 airlines.

A diagram of the bag-to-wheelchair transformation process
Traveller Chair

Within a claimed 30 seconds, though, it can fold out to become a pushed wheelchair with armrests, a footrest and a lap strap – while still containing the user's belongings. In that mode, it can accommodate people weighing up to 100 kg (220 lb). A rear brake keeps it from accidentally rolling away when parked.

Should you be interested, the Traveller Chair is currently the subject of an Indiegogo campaign. A pledge of US$562 will get you one, when and if they reach production. The planned retail price is $626.

Source: Indiegogo

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1 comment
buzzclick
At first glance I thought it was motorized, with an impossible weight restriction, but this practical and smart solution is awesome for the wheelchair bound. I wish Richard Williams and his Traveler Chair much success.