PARAFREE is a modular wheelchair system that enables toolless customization

developed by langefreunde design studio alongside physicians, therapists and patients, ‘PARAFREE’ is an innovative wheelchair that focuses on modularity and usability. designed to be lightweight, easy to customize and easy to store, the wheelchair system aims to support a confident and independent lifestyle for both training and everyday use.

all image courtesy of langefreunde design studio

to achieve this modular design, PARAFREE features a standardized fiber composite monocoque frame with seat shells and back rests in several different sizes. along with easy and compact stowability this ensures optimal fit for users while also allowing for an easy configuration without any complex body measuring. preferences from seat post rigidity to different fixations for the feet can be set right at the start. additionally, further adjustments like seating and footrest position or wheel camber are possible at any time.

the fiber composite monocoque frame gives PARAFREE a distinct shape

langefreunde design studio describes PARAFREE as an all-in-one wheelchair due to its quick release system that enables toolless customization. different front slide-ins provide numerous variations that users otherwise would have to buy an entire new wheelchair for. PARAFREE is already available with a three and four-wheeled option, and many more cross-wheeler or hand-bike add-ons are set to come. 

individualization doesn’t end there. thanks to a special axle setup, users can switch the ‘pivot point’ between relax and sport mode. also, the outer appearance is fully customizable to the users’ preference. chosen for its stiffness and lightweight properties, the frame made of carbon or natural fiber composite can be ordered in a wide range of colors and surface finishes making it stand out on the street in either an elegant or bold way.

the seat shell and back rest are available in different sizes

having began as the diploma project of felix lange in 2011, the PARAFREE concept was then continued together with his team at langefreunde design studio, inspired by the positive response to the concept. after a lot of trial and effort, the wheelchair is now ready for early bird orders, with the first beta prototypes being shipped to users to allow real-world testing. to initiate the first production series, the next stage of the project will see the launch of a crowdfunding campaign. 

every detail of the wheelchair is optimized for everyday use

the ‘pivot point’ axle allows for quick changes between relax and sport mode

PARAFREE is made for an active and confident lifestyle

a three and a four-wheeled version are the first add-ons – many more will follow

customers can configure their wheelchair in a wide range of colors

modularity and user-friendliness were key principles during the design process

the concept started as the diploma project of felix lange, founder of langefreunde design studio

early bird pilots can already order their PARAFREE wheelchair

the next big step in development will be the launch of a crowdfunding campaign

project info:

project name: PARAFREE modular wheelchair system

design: felix lange of langefreunde design studio

designboom has received this project from our ‘DIY submissions‘ feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: lynne myers | designboom