Floors that reduces risk of injury due to falls among elderly
| Reference number | |
| Coordinator | KUNGLIGA TEKNISKA HÖGSKOLAN - Skolan för teknik och hälsa |
| Funding from Vinnova | SEK 2 000 000 |
| Project duration | December 2013 - February 2016 |
| Status | Completed |
Purpose and goal
We have in the project have been able to create a prototype floor that meets all the key requirements of a floor and bench testing and biomechanical simulations show that it can reduce the number of fractures from falling. This floor has been tested and evaluated in two retirement homes in Stockholm. Furthermore, we have been able to demonstrate that there is a way forward to reach the market. All this makes it possible for the Swedish flooring company, along with appropriate industrial players, to bring the product to the market so that it can be of benefit to the victims and society.
Results and expected effects
Finished flooring prototypes that meet the main market requirements and test reports describing the force-deformation response and biomechanical simulations for prototypes compared to existing floors showing positive results have been produced. Functional prototype floors have been installed in selected living spaces in two elderly homes. An evaluation report was put together which describes what patients, staff, floor dismantlers and flooring company think about the floor from different perspectives. A business plan has also been generated.
Approach and implementation
The project has largely been implemented as planned. However, additional time and costs were needed for project management and IP consultants since we received more responses from the US PTO and EPO, and had more potential customers than initially planned.