küschall has designed and developed what is claimed to be the ‘world’s lightest wheelchair‘. the switzerland-based company utilizes aerospace materials to create the ‘superstar’ which features a 1.5kg frame – 30% lighter and 20% stronger compared to classic carbon models.
images courtesy of küschall
the küschall superstar is built using a semi-metal known as graphene, the strongest material known to man. graphene is 200 times stronger than steel and 10 times tougher than diamond, but still incredibly flexible and ultra-lightweight. it is made up of a single layer of carbon atoms, tightly bound in a hexagonal lattice.
the design aims to combat the 50-70% of wheelchair users who end up with upper extremity injuries after the first 10-15 years. in order to ease these chances the wheels have been positioned in closer proximity to the user which helps to increase propelling efficiency.
industrial designer and project leader for the company, andre fangueiro, worked with formula 1 manufacturers to perfect the driving performance of the superstar. the wheelchair features an X-shape geometry with road dampening properties that provides an increase in performance and agility by responding rapidly to every movement. it also features a bespoke backrest with the possibility for a tool less adjustment, and a tailor made seat with an integrated seat cushion to also help optimize propelling performance.
