Case
Next-generation wheelchair improves mobility.
A lot was at stake when Swedish company Etac faced the prospect of renewing its flagship product, the market leading Etac Cross wheelchair. It had to be modernised without risking its position in the market. An important goal was to encourage more people to use the wheelchair’s extensive setting options, together with the goals of a more efficient production process, longer service life, and improved environmental profile.
ClientEtac
IndustryOther
ServicesHardware & Mechanics
Originally delivered by Semcon, now part of Knightec Group.
Background
Correct seating position in a wheelchair is crucial. Incorrect, inadequate or complicated setting options not only make the wheelchair uncomfortable to sit in, but may also lead to injury. Etac created market leader Cross back in 1992. In 2012, the wheelchair was redesigned, and its popularity largely stems from its versatility. When the manufacturing tools for Cross were due to be replaced, Knightec Group was commissioned to modernise and improve the wheelchair.
Challenge
The assignment presented a number of challenges. One of the most demanding was to enhance user-friendliness, to enable more people to adjust the wheelchair properly. This means the user has a better seating position, increased mobility and manoeuvrability, as well as being able to sit for longer. Since several people often use the same wheelchair, it’s even more important for the settings to be easy to adjust and understand. That this is difficult to achieve is primarily due to the limitations posed by specific requirements on the design of the wheelchair.
The power in combining skills.
The close collaboration between Etac and Knightec Group was key to the project’s success, bringing together expertise across product development, production, marketing and purchasing throughout the entire design process—from concept to implementation. This integrated approach ensured both efficient execution and optimal use of cross-functional capabilities.
The result is the Cross 6, a redesigned wheelchair with improved usability, confirmed by clinicians who report easier adjustments and greater flexibility. The updated design features fewer and lighter components, while also meeting ambitious environmental goals through extended product lifespan, improved material choices, and enhanced recyclability.
Delivered Value
The solution delivers value by significantly enhancing user-friendliness, making the wheelchair easier to adjust and better suited for individual needs, which improves comfort, mobility, and overall user experience. At the same time, a modernized design with fewer components and improved material choices contributes to a longer product lifespan and better recyclability, resulting in both environmental benefits and increased product competitiveness.
