a swiss design graduate, reto togni, has developed a new wheelchair system that allows users to manoeuvre by using only their upper body movement. dubbed the reagiro, the chair’s steering system allows one-handed propulsion by utilising a laterally tiltable backrest, freeing up the wheelchair user’s other hand so that they can carry the stuff that they need.

the backrest of this wheelchair doubles up as the steering wheel reto togni

the reagiro allows one-handed propulsion
images courtesy of reto togni

 

 

togni has transformed the wheelchair’s backrest into a steering wheel by attaching it to an axel, allowing the user to pivot by simply leaning. as well as relieving some of the forearm-stress involved in operating a wheelchair, the reagiro also makes turning and easier and safer by lessening the chances of tipping over.

the backrest of this wheelchair doubles up as the steering wheel reto togni

the wheelchair’s pivoting backrest

 

 

to ensure the wheel chair suits each individual user, the frame uses a combination of digital and conventional manufacturing methods. lugs that define the geometry are 3D-printed based off a parametric process to ensure the exact requirements are of each user are reached.

the backrest of this wheelchair doubles up as the steering wheel reto togni

exploded axonometric of the wheelchair

 

the backrest of this wheelchair doubles up as the steering wheel reto togni

the studio’s design evolution of the wheelchair

 

the backrest of this wheelchair doubles up as the steering wheel reto togni

various parts that make up the wheelchair’s pivoting axel technology

 

the backrest of this wheelchair doubles up as the steering wheel reto togni

sketches of the wheelchair during the production phase

 

the backrest of this wheelchair doubles up as the steering wheel reto togni

an early prototype of the wheelchair system