POSTA is a device that aids the transfer of a wheelchair passenger into their seat. It integrates the seat cushion from the aircraft seat with the device eliminating any lifting required to board the passenger. Before a flight, POSTA device is positioned next to a modified seat where the seat cushion is able to be transferred onto the device. It is then wheeled off the aircraft and into the boarding gate. Once the passenger is transferred onto the device in the boarding gate, they are then wheeled onto the aircraft and position next to the same seat, a guide rail from the device then folds down onto the modified seat frame of the aircraft seat. The passenger then slides across via rollers underneath the cushion.
Once across, the armrest is folded down, locking the cushion into the seat frame, and the device is detached from the seat. This process is then reversed when it comes time to disembark. The POSTA device also allows for a backwards transfer. This can prove beneficial for seats in the front row where there is sufficient room in front of the seat. It also allows for a transfer into a business or first class seat. However, the seat cushion would have to be modified accordingly.
Designer : Peter Short
By reducing the time and effort it takes to board a person with reduced mobility (PRM), the airline industry can see an increase in disabled air travel as the process becomes easier and more convenient. A large percentage of wheelchair users choose not to travel by air simply because of the inconvenience and embarrassment.
The POSTA is constructed from a gas-assist injection molded frame, and 7075 aluminum alloy guide rails. The device is also able to collapse and be stowed in an onboard compartment, allowing it to be used during the flight to transport the user to the lavatory. Its 4 swivel castors enable it be easily manoeuvrable, which is important onboard the restricted space of an aircraft cabin. The POSTA device can be manufactured in a variety of sizes according to the aircraft it will be assigned to, this would be specified by the airline.
Currently, wheelchair users board an aircraft with the use of an aisle chair. This can be quite an embarrassing experience as an aisle chair is very narrow and highly unappealing to use. Not just for the passenger, but the airline staff run the risk of injury as they physically lift the passenger to and from their seat in such a restricted environment (aircraft cabin). Its trolley-like function can also dehumanise the passenger and deter them from flying again.
The POSTA device solves this problem by providing a safer and quicker way to transfer a passenger into their seat. As well as PRMs, able-bodied passengers can use the aircraft seat as only the seat frame is modified, the POSTA uses the same cushion as any other seat onboard. With a small amount of modification to the aircraft seat, the POSTA can be seen as a realistic solution to a problem that all airlines face.
Tuvie has received “Posta Seat Transfer Assist” project from our ‘Submit A Design‘ feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their design/concept for publication.