Bengaluru Engineers Develop Swivel Car Seat for Disabilities

Engineers Naina Padaki and Anand Kutre from Bengaluru, India, have developed the TurnPlus swivel car seat, which has significantly improved mobility for over 1000 individuals with disabilities. This innovative product enables users to enter and exit vehicles with greater ease by rotating the seat 90 degrees towards the car door. The TurnPlus seat has transformed travel experiences for many by alleviating the physical strain associated with lifting individuals into vehicles, making family outings more accessible and enjoyable. The development of this technology showcases the potential for assistive solutions to enhance the quality of life for those with mobility challenges.

The journey towards creating the TurnPlus seat began unexpectedly in 2013 when Toyota approached Naina and Anand to design a swivel seat for a car model. Although the initial prototype did not gain traction due to its high cost, the engineers recognized the need for affordable assistive technology in India. Having lived in the United States and witnessed how accessible mobility solutions allowed individuals with disabilities to participate fully in daily life, they were inspired to create a similar environment in India. This motivation led them to transition from their engineering careers into the assistive technology sector.

After years of development and overcoming various challenges, Naina and Anand established TRUE Assistive Technology in 2022. Their goal was to design mobility solutions that fit existing vehicles without permanent modifications, ensuring that the vehicles' warranties and resale values remained intact. The TurnPlus seat exemplifies this approach by integrating a patented mechanism beneath the existing car seat, allowing it to rotate without altering the vehicle's structure. This design philosophy has resonated with many users, providing a practical solution to a common problem faced by individuals with disabilities in India.

In addition to the TurnPlus seat, TRUE Assistive Technology offers portable ramps and transfer systems that further enhance accessibility in everyday life. These products enable wheelchair users to navigate various barriers at home and during travel, promoting independence and reducing the challenges associated with mobility. The engineers' commitment to developing user-friendly solutions has attracted interest from many families, leading to a growing demand for their innovative products.

As TRUE Assistive Technology continues to expand its offerings, the future outlook for accessible mobility solutions in India appears promising. The company aims to reach more individuals facing mobility challenges, further enhancing their ability to engage in everyday activities. By addressing the needs of this underserved community, Naina and Anand's work has the potential to create lasting impacts on the lives of many individuals and their families, fostering a more inclusive society.