Re-imagining the stairlift

No major developments have been made in the stairlift industry over the past four decades. Each rail is made of steel and custom-produced for each individual staircase causing high costs, extensive waste and prolonged delivery periods. Dennis Vroegindeweij, the founder of the UP Stairlift produced by DeVi-Stairlifts, believed the traditional stairlift industry held room for improvement.

He started off as a product developer for a stairlift manufacturer. innovating the development of tubular rails, a significant improvement over the previously used square ones. The success of this innovation was substantial, prompting him to envision a more cost-effective and environmentally friendly rail solution. Consequently, he established his own business in electrically-powered vehicles, never sidelining his focus on an affordable and sustainable rail solution. In 2017 DeVi-Stairlifts was founded and the UP Stairlift was officially introduced at the Rehacare 2018. Following the installation of the first prototypes in 2019 and start of production in 2020. By 2021, the UP Stairlift was globally available, with Europe and North America being its primary markets. Due to the high demand, the production facility was moved to a larger capacity location, fully equipped to meet all requirements and expansion to the rest of the world.

With the modular rail and unique bend parts, the UP Stairlift is one of a kind. The UP Stairlift, distinguished for its innovation and uniqueness in the market, has already garnered several awards. Its unprecedented features have truly set it apart, earning it recognition and esteem. “Our stairlift is globally recognized, meeting all certification standards across different countries. Therefore our dealers are able to place our stairlift all over the world. We also hold an exclusive patent for the bend parts, prohibiting other organizations of using the same design.” The introduction of the modular rail system marks a significant advancement in the design and technology of curved stairlifts.

The UP Stairlift changes the way UP
The UP Stairlift reimagines the conventional perception of a stairlift as a purely medical device. Acknowledging the growing need for individuals to sustain their independence within their own homes, Dennis Vroegindeweij sought to ensure that the stairlift could seamlessly integrate into the home environment. “To achieve this, the services of an interior designer were engaged to develop a chair that possesses the aesthetic appeal of furniture, thus enabling the stairlift to blend effortlessly into any home decor.”

The UP Stairlift is equipped with standard features such as an intercom, automatic footrest, and automatic swivel functionality at both top and bottom, enabling secure and effortless entry and exit from the chair. “Safety always has a high priority to us, the intercom is therefore very helpful and allows immediate communication with the dealer if any issue arises while sitting on the stairlift. They can assist you immediately and understand the problem to decide if an intervention is needed or if it can be resolved by phone.” With the help of a WiFi connection even remote diagnostics can be conducted for further convenience. This feature enables our dealers to assist customers online, pinpointing the fault without the need for physical inspection. As a result, it reduces unnecessary visits, thus saving significant time and costs.”

The rail system consists of only 2 parts. Only standard rail sections and unique bend parts are used. The latter provides the flexibility to configure any bend. This ensures no matter what the staircase looks like, the material used is always in stock and any rail shape can be created. This offers a significant advantage in comparison with commonly used rails, which all have to be custom-made causing extended delivery times and increased transportation costs. The innovative design of the rail system is a crucial factor that allows the UP Stairlift to be easily reinstalled at other staircases. Additionally, it provides the option for on-site adjustments.

Making an end to wastage of rails
Sustainable manufacturing and reusable products are of great importance nowadays. The unique design of the UP Stairlift supports this circular process. The chair, along with its modular rail, is designed for longevity. All components of the rail are fully reusable, with the capability to be reconfigured and integrated with new rail elements, enabling the creation of new rail. “This facilitates the reinstallation of the stairlift into a new home, should the end-user relocate or no longer in need of a stairlift.” The rail itself is made from 100% recycled aluminum and when exhausted still 100% recyclable. “This innovative approach eliminates the need for rail waste, an achievement that we are very proud of.”

UP goes worldwide
The UP Stairlift offers a significant reduction in wait time, previously stretching up to 8 weeks, by enabling dealers to keep stock for immediate installation. The straight rail and curved pieces allows for a flexible assembly process. The UP Stairlift aims to empower end-users with a need of swift access to independence within their own residences. Fast delivery is particularly beneficial for end-users who are about to be discharged from hospital or for those with an acute mobility problem. “We are looking forward to work with our dealers and broaden the accessibility of stairlifts for more end-users, ultimately increasing the independent living for the growing ageing population.”