SBU Professor Invents Device To Help Those Suffering From Mobility Problems

The idea was born from a request he received five years ago from a friend, a retired physician who was suffering from post-polio syndrome: Anurag Purwar, a Research Associate Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Stony Brook University, has developed a device to help people with mobility issues raise themselves out of a chair more easily, the University announced.

“Today, in the United States, there are more than two million people over the age of 64 who find it difficult to rise from a chair without assistance,” Purwar said in a statement. “Biomechanically, sitting and standing involve complex movements that require muscle strength greater than other activities of daily life.”

With the help of student Thomas Galeotafiore and others, Purwar said he used his machine design background to design the device, which is described as "a portable, compact, multifunctional mobility assist device that helps a person with standing, sitting and walking independently with support only from the device."

The device is similar to a walker, but has a pelvic harness, support bars and a remote-controlled linkage.

“The most obvious advantage of the device is that it gives the opportunity for more independence,” Purwar said. “It can also help protect patients and caregivers from accidental falls and back injuries.”

Purwar will continue developing the device thanks to a $50,000 Technology Accelerator Fund award from the SUNY Foundation. Stony Brook's Strategic Partnership for Industrial Resurgence program and Center for Biotechnology at Stony Brook University said they will also contribute additional support. Purwar is working with Shirley-based Biodex Medical Systems as a potential partner for commercial development.

“It is a win-win situation for everyone involved but especially for patients and the local economy," said Diane Fabel, director of operations for the Center for Biotechnology.

Purwar is a decorated professor who has been recognized by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers with a "Best Paper" award and is the recipient of a Presidential Award for Excellence in Teaching from Stony Brook.