LUCI signs US distribution deal for its innovative wheelchair sensor system
Numotion, one of the largest national mobility providers in the USA, has signed an agreement to distribute the LUCI power wheelchair sensor system in the United States – a move which could precipitate the introduction of this “game-changing” product in the UK.
In a move that will make smart wheelchair technology directly available to power wheelchair riders for the first time, Numotion, America’s largest provider of Complex Rehab Technology (CRT), will become the first partner for LUCI’s unique hardware/software product.
LUCI attaches to power wheelchairs to provide security, stability and connectivity, helping users navigate various environments and terrains with greater safety and confidence.
“It takes ‘smart wheelchair’ to a whole new level,” said Mike Swinford, CEO of Numotion.
“LUCI is the most interesting, truly innovative CRT product to come to market for some time.
“This ground-breaking technology opens doors to independence for wheelchair users and parents/caregivers who have safety concerns regarding power mobility.”
LUCI, which launched in July after three years of development, uses a patented sensor-fusion safety system to combine data from cameras, ultrasonics and radar into a single, 360-degree view of the world. The technology works with riders’ steering inputs and reaction times to create a customised, safer driving experience.
“We are thrilled to offer this game-changing product for power wheelchair users, providing personalised solutions including collision avoidance, drop-off protection, and anti-tipping alerts,” said John Pryles, EVP of Sales at Numotion.
“LUCI’s collision avoidance provides protection to users while allowing them greater independence, fewer accidents and fewer costly chair repairs. LUCI is the kind of forward-thinking innovation our customers want and deserve.”
Available to purchase in the US for $8,445 MSRP (£6,729), the company spoke of its hopes that its attachable system that can be retrofitted to leading powered wheelchairs and boasts a wide array of technologies that it believes will be a gamechanger in the market. It also told THIIS at the time that once it has established its distribution network domestically, it plans to bring its invention overseas.
Recently named one of this year’s top 100 inventions by TIME Magazine, LUCI was co-founded by brothers Barry and Jered Dean as a way to support Barry’s daughter Katherine, who has used a power wheelchair for much of her life.
In addition to avoiding dynamic obstacles and threats to a user’s environment, LUCI provides cloud-based communication and alerts via its MyLuci portal. The MyLuci app, which is available to users in the Apple and Google Play app stores, allows riders to view their data and use a secure, encrypted system to share select information with trusted family, friends and caregivers. LUCI can also be configured to alert others of specific events – for example, a rider’s location if his or her battery gets dangerously low.
“LUCI is excited to partner with Numotion in bringing new wheelchair technologies to the forefront,” commented Co-Founder Barry Dean, CEO of LUCI. “We’re looking forward to working with Numotion as we reimagine wheelchair mobility and bring real-world solutions to users.”
https://thiis.co.uk/luci-signs-us-distribution-deal-for-its-innovative-wheelchair-sensor-system/https://thiis.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/LUCI-system-on-powerchairs.jpghttps://thiis.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/LUCI-system-on-powerchairs-150x150.jpgNewsroomSupplier NewsTrade Newsdistribution,hardware,inventions,LUCI,Mike Swinford,Mobility,Numotion,power,smart wheelchair,software,wheelchairsNumotion, one of the largest national mobility providers in the USA, has signed an agreement to distribute the LUCI power wheelchair sensor system in the United States – a move which could precipitate the introduction of this “game-changing” product in the UK. In a move that will make smart wheelchair...Liane McIvorLiane McIvorliane@thiis.co.ukEditorTHIIS Magazine