Believe it or not, there are still large portions of the population that are surprised that people with disabilities have babies. They may even be surprised that wheelchair users who have babies want to go on walks or run errands with their babies with them. Unfortunately there aren’t many products available to help wheelchair users and their babies get about. I found only one baby stroller to wheelchair product but it doesn’t seem to be available anymore. Other ones I found were custom made strollers. Baby carriers that wrap around the torso with the baby in front can be used. But then nothing else can be placed on the lap and the baby can’t always be taken out of the carrier when out and about. To solve this dilemma, Swedish industrial design student Cindy Sjöblom created the Cursum. A baby stroller specifically designed to attach and work with a wheelchair.

Birth of a Stroller

Sjöblom interviewed parents who are wheelchair users to find out their wants and figure out what designs would work best. Eventually after many sketches, models, and fine tuning; a prototype was made. Some of the people she interviewed then tested it out in real life situations.

Oh Baby

The final design consists of a baby carrier, four wheels, storage, and attachments to a wheelchair. The carriage sits on top of a U shaped swivel which is attached to a telescoping pole. The carrier can then be set at different angles and heights. Attachment to the wheelchair is done with grips that attach to the footrest frame. At the front of the Cursum are two larger sized wheels. There’s also a storage bag built in to carry baby items.

Baby On Board

Cursum keeps baby is sight while moving well with the wheelchair. Hinges near the grips allow the stroller to be lifted up when going over curbs or other obstacles. When not attached to a wheelchair, Cursum can stand on its own. Smaller rear wheels extend out and form a base. Great for times when the stroller would be in the way. Such as when at a table or service counter.

Conclusion

Sjöblom has designed a well thought out and well designed product that fills a void. Watch the video to see the interviews, design process, and prototype in action. I’m sure many people would love to see Cursum on the market someday.

Cursum – Stroller for wheelchair users from Cindy Sjöblom on Vimeo.







Comments