Timothy Balz, the co-founder and CEO of Kalogon, has redirected his experience from SpaceX to revolutionize wheelchair technology. Balz’s journey began in high school with a nonprofit initiative to improve wheelchair accessibility, laying the foundation for his current ventures. His work at Intel further enhanced his expertise, leading to the creation of connected wheelchairs that garnered recognition from notable figures like Stephen Hawking.
Kalogon has developed advanced seating systems, including the Orbiter Med and Orbiter for Aviation, which are already in use in various clinical and commercial settings. These systems utilize artificial intelligence to adapt to the user’s body in real time, enhancing comfort and reducing the risk of pressure injuries. The integration of a connected app allows for personalized adjustments, catering to specific medical needs that automated systems may overlook.
What Sets Kalogon’s Technology Apart?
Kalogon’s technology distinguishes itself by automatically adjusting pressure points to simulate the benefits of standing, thereby improving user comfort and health. This innovation eliminates the need for manual adjustments, offering a more seamless experience for wheelchair users. The company’s products are supported by a user-friendly app, enabling clinicians to make necessary tweaks based on individual medical conditions.
How Has Kalogon Impacted Users?
One early adopter, John Miller, experienced significant improvements in his quality of life thanks to Kalogon’s technology. Previously limited by discomfort and the risk of pressure injuries, Miller was able to extend his wheelchair use from a few hours to sixteen hours daily. This enhancement allowed him to engage more actively with his community, pursue personal interests, and begin the journey towards walking again.
What Are the Challenges Faced by Disability Tech?
Despite promising advancements, Kalogon initially encountered skepticism from investors who doubted the market potential of disability technology. Balz remarked, “I couldn’t even get my foot in the door initially,” highlighting the biases that have historically hindered investment in this sector. Diego Mariscal, CEO of 2Gether-International, emphasized the importance of representation and advocacy in overcoming these challenges.
Kalogon’s approach aims to shift investor perspectives by demonstrating the substantial market and impact of their solutions. Mariscal supports this vision by advocating for inclusive practices and fostering environments where disabled entrepreneurs can thrive. The collaboration between innovative startups and long-term advocacy efforts is seen as crucial for sustainable progress in disability technology.
The continued development of smart wheelchair technologies like those from Kalogon not only enhances user experience but also addresses broader issues of accessibility and representation. As more companies recognize the value of inclusive design, the potential for significant improvements in the lives of disabled individuals grows. This momentum is essential for creating a more equitable and supportive environment for all users.
Kalogon’s advancements in wheelchair technology exemplify the transformative power of combining technical innovation with a commitment to social impact. By addressing both the immediate needs of users and the systemic challenges within the industry, Kalogon is paving the way for a more inclusive future.
