Revolution in Wheelchair Construction: The Wheelchair Simulator (SIMO)
Martin Honcu, Blickpunkt Issue 02/2025
In my search for wheelchair sports, I came across a groundbreaking innovation: the SIMO wheelchair simulator. This high-tech device could be of great interest to many of you, as it allows for individual adjustment of the wheelchair for the first time – before it is even ordered.
Until now, the wheelchair fitting process has often been challenging. After measurements have been taken by the medical supply store, the wheelchair is ordered – in the hope that it will fit perfectly and integrate seamlessly into everyday life. But the reality is often different: A few centimeters too long, a backrest that is too high, or an incorrect axle adjustment can cause considerable difficulties. Adjustments are then often laborious, and health insurance companies don’t always approve changes without difficulty.
Test instead of ordering blindly
While people test drive cars or try on clothes before buying, wheelchairs have traditionally been ordered without prior practical experience. This is precisely where the SIMO comes in. I had the opportunity to test it as the first patient at the Klein medical supply store in Darmstadt and was impressed by its precision and flexibility.
The concept: First, the customized seat cushion is placed on the simulator. Then you can comfortably transfer, the screen folds away – and from there, the technology takes over. The seat height, backrest, and wheel axles can be adjusted via remote control to find the optimal position. But the real highlight is yet to come: you actually drive the simulator!
A virtual test drive through the city
The SIMO simulates a realistic drive through a virtual city. You can approach intersections, turn, or continue straight ahead – just like in real life. During the test, adjustments can be made in real time: If the backrest is pressing or the seat height isn’t optimal, all you need to do is press a button. The settings are adjusted without getting out of the wheelchair until the perfect level of comfort is achieved.
What’s particularly helpful is that all measured values are available on the screen and can be transferred directly to the order form – regardless of the wheelchair manufacturer. Two cameras document the sitting posture, allowing you to later analyze the effects of different settings.
Efficiency and satisfaction for patients and medical supply stores
After my session at SIMO, my own wheelchair was adjusted accordingly, including lowering the backrest. The result? I’m getting around much better now.
Unfortunately, my health insurance doesn’t yet cover the costs of the SIMO. The simulator requires about an hour per session, as you actively drive and test individual settings. However, the saved values are retained – during a subsequent test, the SIMO automatically adjusts to the previously determined parameters, saving valuable time.
Klein Medical Supply is currently covering the additional costs for using the simulator but hopes to benefit from it in the long term: Fewer readjustments after delivery of the wheelchair save time and personnel. And satisfied customers? They come back.
Article: https://www.multiple-sklerose-e-v.de/von-betroffenen-fuer-betroffene/ernaehrung-sport/revolution-im-rollstuhlbau-der-rollstuhlsimulator-simo
Sources
Klein Medical Supply Store Wheelchair simulator Simo, perfectly adjusted and tested!, available online at www.sani-klein.de/mobilitaet/rollstuhlsimulator-simo/.