Varstiff, an innovative variable stiffness material, applied in a Wheelchair Positioning Device

Varstiff is a technology that allows a sheet material to switch from flexible to rigid state and vice versa by adjusting vacuum level through a pump. We used this Varstiff as base technology to design a Wheelchair Positioning Device. Main function of this device is to correctly position a stroke patient when seated in a wheelchair during hospital stay. Correct sitting posture supports motor rehabilitation and improves comfort and pain condition. We have shown in a preliminary study with one representative patient that during normal procedures caregivers could reduce the needed amount of manual repositionings of the patient by 50% during a week of use. The device was rated as comfortable and easily usable by the caregiver while the patient rated it as improving pain complaints.