News from our eMag

Assistive technology, rehabilitation and a self-determined life with disabilities

VW New Caravelle Extended with open sliding door and a power wheelchair at the side entrance.

PARAVAN introduces electric clutch concept and new VW Caravelle

An electric clutch concept for selected manual vehicles and the German debut of the VW New Caravelle Extended: PARAVAN will present two additions to its vehicle conversion portfolio at REHACARE 2026.

Jacob M. Nissen, CEO of Create it REAL, stands in front of industrial 3D-printing equipment holding a large white lattice-structured wheelchair cushion made with Programmable Foam®.

Programmable Foam® moves from wheelchair seating to serial production

The AireRx® wheelchair cushion line in Sweden provides a commercial example of Create it REAL’s move into serial production with Programmable Foam®. The 3D-printing technology can be used for both individualized seating solutions and production in larger quantities.

A woman using a wheelchair holds the 2LIP prototype in an accessible bathroom

New assistive devices support greater independence in bladder and bowel management

Fraunhofer IPA has developed 2LIP and 4ROSE, two assistive device prototypes for bladder catheterization and bowel management. The solutions are designed to support greater independence and will be presented at REHACARE 2026 in Düsseldorf.

Two elderly people talking to each other in a bus

DLR study highlights design needs for age-appropriate mobility

How can mobility be designed to better meet the needs of an aging population? A DLR study takes a closer look at the full journey chain, from walking and public transportation to cars, e-bikes and automated vehicles, and highlights where existing standards and services still need to adapt.

Two people with upper limb prostheses sit together at a dining table while AI labels highlight prostheses and other visual elements in the image.

#DearAI: Image library aims to improve AI representation of people with prostheses

People with prostheses are still frequently missing or inaccurately portrayed in AI-generated images. With the #DearAI initiative, Ottobock and prosthesis users have created an open image library that helps AI systems better reflect real people and everyday life.

Person using a powered wheelchair with a mounted AAC device smiles while interacting with another person outdoors.

U.S. study highlights quality-of-life and economic benefits of high-tech AAC

A new U.S. study highlights how high-tech augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) improves quality of life, independence and participation while also creating measurable economic benefits for society.

Person using a WHILL autonomous mobility device in Heathrow Airport Terminal 3

Heathrow Airport trials WHILL's autonomous mobility service

WHILL has launched a trial of its Autonomous Service at Heathrow Airport Terminal 3. The self-driving mobility devices support independent terminal navigation for travelers with mobility needs and expand the company's global airport network to 26 locations worldwide.

Child seated in a LECKEY BeMe pediatric seating system playing hand drums in a classroom

New pediatric seating system supports changing postural needs

Sunrise Medical has launched the LECKEY BeMe™ Seating System, a modular pediatric seating solution with interchangeable components, three support levels, and a design intended to adapt to children's changing postural needs.

Accessible bathroom with a toilet support system featuring side handles and a vertical lifting design beside a modern sink and wooden cabinet

Assistive bathroom design: UpRiser supports everyday transfers

As demand for home-based mobility support grows, assistive bathroom solutions are evolving beyond purely clinical design. With the UpRiser, Vital Fjord highlights a transfer support system focused on accessibility, everyday usability, and independent living at home.

Elderly person with a lower limb prosthesis walks outdoors carrying a shopping bag in front of a modern building

Microprocessor-controlled knees: Symposium highlights clinical and economic findings

An online symposium explored current clinical and health economic findings on microprocessor-controlled knees (MPKs). Experts discussed safety, fall prevention and the long-term cost-effectiveness of advanced prosthetic knee technology across different mobility levels.

Zalando booth at REHACARE 2025 showcasing adaptive fashion

Inclusive by Design: Zalando links adaptive fashion and accessibility

Zalando is further developing its D&I strategy "Inclusive by Design", combining the expansion of adaptive fashion with a stronger focus on accessible web and app experiences. In doing so, the company is not only advancing its product offering, but also placing greater emphasis on digital accessibility as part of its platform.

Portrait of Geoff Purtill, strategic advisor at munevo

munevo strengthens assistive technology strategy with Geoff Purtill

Assistive technology company munevo has appointed Geoff Purtill as a strategic advisor. With decades of experience in complex rehabilitation technology, he will support the company’s international expansion across key markets.

Wheelchair user conducting musicians with a baton on stage

Permobil launches Comfort Unite back supports for wheelchair seating

Permobil has introduced Comfort Unite, a new wheelchair back support line designed to help clinicians, wheelchair users and providers achieve an appropriate fit, postural support and comfort across a wide range of seating and positioning needs. The lineup offers five configurations and combines ROHO air technology with Comfort moldable stays, aiming to reduce setup complexity in clinical practice.

A wheelchair user charges an electric car at a public charging station, holding the charging connector up to the vehicle’s charging port

Sweden formalizes accessibility requirements for electric vehicle charging

Sweden has formalized accessibility requirements for electric vehicle (EV) charging stations through a national technical specification issued by the Swedish Institute for Standards. The guidance supports charging operators, procurement bodies and manufacturers in setting clear criteria, so accessibility is addressed in planning and design. BraunAbility Europe contributed expertise to the work.

Collage of employees and logos of Create it REAL and Vitalitecs

Create it REAL and Vitalitecs expand digital orthotics in Mexico

Create it REAL has partnered with Vitalitecs to expand access to digital orthopedic manufacturing in Mexico. The collaboration offers clinics and workshops two paths: bring production in-house with training, or use a local 3D print service for patient-specific devices on demand. The focus includes orthotics, prosthetics and assistive devices like diabetic insoles, seating aids and braces.

Person taking part in a telerehabilitation session after stroke via video call

Stroke telerehabilitation: cognition-first care delivered at home

Stroke rehabilitation often requires long travel and is concentrated in urban centers, limiting access for rural patients. A study tested a cognition-first telerehabilitation model that pairs brief cognitive sessions with occupational therapy delivered by video at home. The approach aims to support daily functioning and improve engagement in recovery.

A woman in a red power wheelchair talks with a man on a rooftop terrace.

Sunrise Medical acquires Ergoflix to expand foldable power wheelchairs

Sunrise Medical has acquired Ergoflix, a German supplier of premium foldable power wheelchairs based in Hamminkeln. The deal expands Sunrise Medical’s Premium Standard rehabilitation portfolio alongside its Complex Rehabilitation business. Both companies cite demographic change, demand for independence and home-based care, and plans to scale Ergoflix’s dealer-focused model internationally.

A Batec electric add-on handbike positioned upright in the foreground, wheelchair user in the background

Decon acquires Batec Mobility to strengthen power-assist solutions

Decon’s acquisition of Batec Mobility marks an important step for the global mobility sector, as both companies aim to strengthen access to high-quality power-assist solutions for wheelchair users. By combining expertise, service structures and distribution networks, the partnership seeks to meet rising international demand and ensure long-term stability for customers, clinicians and therapists.

A group of people wearing VR headsets participate in a guided therapy session

CUREO®5 expands VR therapy for clinical and therapeutic use

CUREO®5 enhances VR therapy workflows and supports therapy teams with new planning, training, and data management features.

The KARMA team at their booth at REHACARE 2025

KARMA at REHACARE 2025: New power wheelchairs and mobility solutions

At REHACARE 2025, KARMA presented a wide range of new mobility solutions that combine ergonomic design, adaptability, and user comfort. Visitors experienced next-generation power wheelchairs such as EVO Altus, Saber Sling, Agile Plus. Throughout the exhibition, KARMA emphasized collaboration with medical professionals, therapists, and users to further improve assistive mobility.

The Lifeward booth at REHACARE 2025 in Düsseldorf

ReWalk 7 debuts at REHACARE 2025

Lifeward Ltd. has received CE mark approval for its ReWalk 7 personal exoskeleton, enabling commercial launch across the European Union. Unveiled as a highlight at REHACARE 2025 in Düsseldorf, visitors tested the wearable mobility system and learned how cloud connectivity, app-based control, and adaptive walking functions support independence in daily rehabilitation.

The photo shows two people smiling and talking in a workshop surrounded by metallic wheelchair rims

MBL welcomes Errol Marklein to Omobic

MBL announces that mobility expert Errol Marklein has joined the Omobic team as consultant and brand ambassador. With over 30 years of experience in wheelchair design and rehabilitation technology, he brings creativity, technical insight, and empathy to the development of assistive mobility products that support independence and improve quality of life for users worldwide.

In the picture, four people are standing side by side at a trade fair booth

Create it REAL and inorsys introduce 3D-printed seating solutions

Danish 3D printing company Create it REAL and German medical technology specialist inorsys have formed a partnership to bring 3D-printed seating aid cushions to Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. The collaboration introduces Programmable Foam® seating technology to the DACH region, combining customized design, patient comfort, sustainability, and shorter lead times in medical seating care.

The picture shows a young woman training with a motor-assisted rehabilitation device

Sunrise Medical acquires Made for Movement in neurorehab

Sunrise Medical expands its therapeutic care portfolio with the acquisition of Norwegian company Made for Movement. The specialist is recognized internationally for clinically validated neurorehabilitation devices that support children and adults with neurological conditions. With this step, Sunrise Medical strengthens its role in paediatric and adult rehabilitation care across Europe.

A person using a joystick and hand controls to drive

UN R155 limits accessibility in modern vehicle conversions

The UN Regulation R155 aims to improve vehicle cybersecurity, but it unintentionally creates major obstacles for people with disabilities. Companies like KADOMO and PARAVAN, along with advocacy groups, are calling for urgent regulatory adjustments to ensure that accessibility and cybersecurity are not mutually exclusive.

A pink-and-white, wall-mounted folding shower seat from the Barbie x HEWI Collection

Barbie x HEWI: Design meets inclusion

At REHACARE 2025, Barbie™ and HEWI unveiled a sanitary collection that combines timeless design, functionality, and accessibility in an inspiring way. Presented at the GGT – Deutsche Gesellschaft für Gerontotechnik® mbH joint stand, the series embodies the principles of Universal Design and celebrates diversity in everyday life. With its inclusive approach, the collection attracted great interest.

A person in a wheelchair wears a VR headset and holds motion controllers; Copyright: University of Waterloo

MotionBlocks makes VR games easier for all to access

Virtual reality (VR) offers experiences and social interaction, but many VR games rely on large physical movements – something not all users can perform. A team of researchers has now addressed this gap by developing MotionBlocks, a tool that adapts VR games to users with limited mobility. Players can customize in-game controls to match their physical abilities.

Photo: A girl uses the exoskeleton in her schoolyard, surrounded by other children. Everyone is smiling and having fun; Copyright: Marsi Bionics

New home-use exoskeleton developed for children with gait impairments

The Spanish National Research Council (CSIC) has unveiled the first results of the EXPLORER project, a research initiative aimed at enhancing mobility and participation for children with gait impairments. The project has successfully developed a pediatric exoskeleton designed for personal use, allowing children to participate while using it at home and outdoors.

Image: A woman observes a child using a mobility aid, the MyWay Pedal, near a green field; Copyright: Sunrise Medical

LECKEY MyWay Pedal enhances mobility and strength for children

Sunrise Medical introduced the LECKEY MyWay Pedal, a novel addition to the MyWay+ Gait Trainer, designed to promote standing and walking through elliptical motion. This innovation supports children with mobility challenges by improving lower limb strength and fostering independence.

Image: A woman sits in a wheelchair with a Lomo GX traction device stretched in front of it; Copyright: Stricker Handbikes

Stricker Handbikes: Micro GX and Lomo GX traction devices set new standards

Stricker Handbikes, one of the most renowned manufacturers of handbikes in Europe, has launched two new models, the Micro GX and Lomo GX, which are specially designed to meet the needs of people with mobility impairments. These offer numerous advanced functions that significantly improve both comfort and safety when riding.

Photo: A woman stands in a kitchen, her right foot is in a splint, next to her is a standing walking aid; Copyright: STEETS

Innovative STEETS module: Safe placement of walking aids

An innovative idea in the field of mobility devices comes onto the market: the STEETS module makes it possible to place walking aids safely and stably. After four years of intensive development and testing, three students from Dortmund University of Applied Sciences and Arts and Paderborn University and Paderborn University of Applied Sciences and Arts present their final product.

Photo: A woman congratulates an athlete while a camera man films this standing at the front left; Copyright: Förderverein Para Leichtathletik / Kevin Voigt

Paralympics: live broadcasts at prime time on German television

A milestone for disabled sport in Germany: for the first time, the Paralympics will be broadcast in prime time on ARD (German public-service broadcaster). On September 2 and 4, after the daily news at 8:15 p.m., sports fans will be able to watch the competitions live. Long jumper Markus Rehm and other top athletes will be competing at the World Games for people with disabilities.

Image: A wheelchair enters the picture from the right; Copyright: Showerbuddy

Challenges and importance of mobility in the UK

A UK government report on disability statistics revealed a significant number of people facing mobility challenges. The report found that in 2021/2022 around 16 million people across the UK had a disability of some kind.

Photo: A converted Hyundai STARIA with a ramp for a wheelchair; Copyright: AMF-Bruns

AMF-Bruns: Accessible conversion for comfortable and safe transportation

From mid-2024, AMF-Bruns will be offering accessible conversions for the new Hyundai STARIA. The futuristic vehicle not only impresses with its design, but also with flexible conversion solutions that enable the safe and comfortable transportation of wheelchair users.

Image: Woman in a wheelchair, Mona Francis, holding the Paralympic Torch; Copyright: Paris 2024

Paris 2024 has chosen its Torchbearers for the Olympic and Paralympic Games

80% of the 11.000 Torchbearers between the Olympic and Paralympic Torch Relays have been informed that they will carry the meaningful fire; they are called the 'Forerunners'.

Hari Budha Magar stands on a snowy summit, raising an ice axe against a clear blue sky, with rugged peaks and gear in the background.

Hari Budha Magar completes Seven Summits with Ottobock support

Nepalese-British adventurer Hari Budha Magar has made mountaineering history once more: Supported by Ottobock prosthetic technology, he became the first double above-knee amputee to climb the highest peaks on all seven continents. His achievement on Mount Vinson in Antarctica sends a powerful message about inclusion, accessibility, and the limitless potential of human determination.

Kristina Vogel sits in a wheelchair next to the back of her black car; Coypright: Škoda/Dammanworks

Customized vehicle solution for Kristina Vogel

Kristina Vogel, two-time Olympic gold medalist and 17-time world champion in track cycling, experienced a major turning point in 2018 when a training accident left her with a spinal cord injury. Since then, she has been using a wheelchair – and finding new ways to pursue mobility and freedom. Now, with a vehicle adapted by PARAVAN and Škoda Germany, she continues her path toward greater autonomy.

Photo: Sandra Mikolaschek, Valentin Baus, Thomas Schmidberger, Marcel Piwolinski, Alexander Schilling, Lukas Ziemann; Copyright: Borussia Düsseldorf

Borussia Düsseldorf secures ninth straight wheelchair table tennis title

Borussia Düsseldorf continues to dominate wheelchair table tennis: With a flawless season, the team of Sandra Mikolaschek, Valentin Baus, and Thomas Schmidberger secured the 2024/25 German Championship – marking their ninth consecutive title. Without a single defeat, the team triumphed convincingly ahead of surprise runner-up TTC Wiehl.

Photo: Sabine controls the vehicle with two joysticks on the dashboard; Copyright: PARAVAN

Self-determined participation: Drive-by-wire technology for accessible driving

For people with physical disabilities, mobility is a key factor in leading an independent and self-determined life. Advanced drive-by-wire technology enables accessible driving, allowing individuals to navigate their daily routines and professional commitments with greater ease.

Photo: Benjamin sits with his wheelchair in his new Mercedes V-Class; Copyright: PARAVAN

Arriving relaxed – mobile with wheelchair and joystick

Benjamin has been independently mobile since 2011and a good 400,000 kilometres. Now he has taken delivery of his second Mercedes V-Class from PARAVAN. In addition to the new model, the new vehicle also has technical advantages that make driving safer and more relaxed.

Photo: Bruno sits in his VW T6.1 with joystick and smiles at the camera; Copyright: PARAVAN

From driving school to vehicle customization

Thanks to his successful driving school training at the PARAVAN driving school and individual vehicle conversion, Bruno was able to take delivery of his adapted VW T6.1 just in time for the start of his training. Thanks to various adaptations, such as a cassette lift and secondary functions via the PARAVAN touch system, he can now take part in road traffic independently and safely.