A Modern Spin on Mechanical Simplicity

This story unfolds at the ETH Industry Day at the open-i conference, Switzerland’s leading innovation platform for transforming research into entrepreneurship. Hosted at the Kongresshaus, just steps away from Zurich’s lakeside promenade, the day begins with inspiring keynote speeches on cutting-edge topics from the fields of robotics and artificial intelligence. But as I leave the auditorium, I feel like leaving these ideas behind as I step back into the simple, mechanical world of our own project. Nowhere near as complex, it still carries the potential to revolutionize manual wheelchair design by enabling users to steer just by leaning. This marks a meaningful shift from the conventional method, where direction is controlled by braking with one hand to turn in that direction. Presented alongside other ETH-supported ventures at the Entrepreneurship booth, we had the opportunity to showcase our work and connect with a diverse network of innovators and enthusiasts.

I believe deeply in our project, and the positive feedback from our supportive test users only strengthens that conviction. Yet, I often find myself reflecting on a stark contrast: How can a purely mechanical concept hold its ground in a world ruled by algorithms and automation? Perhaps it’s simply a matter of perspective: simplicity doesn’t mean low-tech. We make no compromises when it comes to using the best digital tools at our disposal. For the “Wings for Life Run,” we designed a purpose-built frame crafted from carbon fiber and topology-optimized, additively manufactured aluminum components—so effective that our ambassador managed to outrun us at the event. In terms of personalization, a critical aspect of wheelchair provision, we are developing a design automation pipeline that leverages digital manufacturing to achieve optimal geometry through mass customization—an approach still largely untapped in this industry. And yet, all this complexity behind the scenes serves one clear goal: to create a final product that is as intuitive, elegant, and functional as possible.

In an increasingly complex world, we are consciously committed to reduction. By focusing our efforts and using resources as efficiently and impactfully as possible, just the two of us have been able to bring this project to life. This philosophy isn’t just about how we work—it’s about the difference we aim to make.

For many of the 80 million manual wheelchair users worldwide, our system offers increased efficiency, reducing shoulder strain and expanding activity range. It also enables one-handed propulsion—whether out of necessity or sheer practicality. Our goal isn’t simply to build a wheelchair, it’s to craft something that supports its users rather than burdens them. A product so reliable and intuitive that it feels like a natural extension of the body.

Join and support our mission!

We’re Versive, and you can follow our journey at www.versivewheels.com