# Shape-Shifting Wheelchairs Pressure-Sensing Wheels Improve Mobility By Going Like Sixty | Published 2008-09-19 | Lifestyle Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/transformer-wheelchair-getting-around-on-odd-shaped-wheels References: [tuvie](http://www.tuvie.com/transformable-wheelchair-concept-by-caspar-schmitz) Wheelchairs are survival for those who need them, but innovation often comes slowly. This [wheelchair concept](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/sofia-mobility) is made of plastic and adapts to the situation to change the center of gravity. Vertical pressure on the handle bar changes the round wheel to an ellipse in order to traverse steps and barriers easier. It’s a pretty awesome looking device with some very practical reasons to come to market. **Implications** - As manufacturing and industrial design become more technologically advanced, designers are able to create more sensible product-facing creations such as these [shape-shifting wheelchairs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/lightweight-electric-wheelchair). Such advancements allow [the disabled more independence](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/wheelchair-mode) and the ability to maneuver in today's able-bodied world just as well as anyone else. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 4.0/10 - Popularity: 60% | Activity: 51% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America, South America, Europe, Asia, Africa ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Lifestyle](https://www.trendhunter.com/lifestyle) > [Health](https://www.trendhunter.com/health) ## Key Themes ### What Makes This Trend Stand Out - **Shape-shifting Wheelchairs:** Disruptive innovation opportunity: Develop and commercialize wheelchairs that can adapt to different terrains and improve mobility for individuals with disabilities. - **Pressure-sensing Wheels:** Disruptive innovation opportunity: Create pressure-sensing wheels that can automatically adjust and optimize wheelchair performance based on terrain conditions. - **Manufacturing and Industrial Design Advancements:** Disruptive innovation opportunity: Utilize advanced manufacturing techniques and industrial design to develop more inclusive and practical products for individuals with disabilities. ### Sectors Adopting This - **Healthcare:** Disruptive innovation opportunity: Revolutionize the wheelchair industry by introducing innovative products and tools that improve accessibility and mobility for patients. - **Technology:** Disruptive innovation opportunity: Combine sensors and robotics to create smart wheelchairs that offer enhanced maneuverability and adaptability for users. - **Assistive Technology:** Disruptive innovation opportunity: Develop cutting-edge assistive technologies that empower individuals with disabilities to navigate the world with greater ease and independence. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Sleek Robotic Wheelchair Designs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/robotic-wheelchair.md) - [Luxury Discrete Wheelchair Designs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/discrete-wheelchair.md) - [Transformable Lightweight Wheelchairs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/wheeliy.md) - [Luxe Lounge Motorized Wheelchairs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/the-resilience.md) - [All-Terrain Electric Wheelchairs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/scewo-bro.md) - [Modular Powered Wheelchair Designs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/wheelchair-hand-cycle.md) - [Airplane-Friendly Wheelchairs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/airchair-wheelchair.md) - [Assistive Manual Wheelchair Add-Ons](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/manual-wheelchair.md) - [Wheel-Free Assisted Mobility Chairs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/toyota-walk-me.md)