You probably won’t be very excited by the Empathik concept unless you’re a member of AARP. That’s too bad, because Vivian Chang’s multipurpose walker is worth a look, even if you are a millennial with no mobility issues whatsoever. Chang has designed a walker that can be converted into a luggage trolley.
It takes only three steps to convert the Empathik from a walker into a luggage trolley. The two stages of the Empathik are targeted at two different age generations. The trolley is aimed at folks from age 64-75 and the walker is designed for seniors from age 85 and up. Although it’s targeted at seniors, the Empathik could be useful to younger folks, especially those who live in urban areas. Carrying groceries by hand is tough work.
Luggage-Converting Walkers
The Empathik Instantly Goes from Walker to Luggage Trolley
Trend Themes
1. Multipurpose Mobility Aids - Designing multipurpose mobility aids like walkers that convert into luggage trolleys benefits seniors and younger folks living in urban areas.
2. Age-targeted Products - Developing products like the Empathik walker that caters to the specific needs of different age groups creates opportunities for disruptive innovation.
3. Urban Mobility Solutions - Creating urban mobility solutions like the Empathik walker that aids in carrying groceries by hand augments convenience and presents a disruptive niche market.
Industry Implications
1. Medical Equipment - Opportunities for multipurpose medical equipment like the Empathik walker can be developed for seniors and other mobility-impaired individuals.
2. Travel - The Empathik's luggage trolley function presents a disruptive innovation opportunity in the travel industry, particularly for older or disabled travelers.
3. Retail - Retailers selling groceries and other heavy items could create strategic partnerships with companies like Empathik, providing walker/luggage trolley hybrid carts for customer convenience.