In development for almost five years, Access BDD introduced the Flow X stairlift at the beginning of this year. Manufactured in Holland, it is the third curved Adam Wakes, stairlift to use Marketing Manager the Flow family at Access BDD name. The original Flow stairlift launched in 1999 and this was followed by the introduction of the Flow 2 in 2006. Marketing Manager Adam Wakes, who has been working for the firm for nine years, explains that the Flow 2 was a “very advanced stairlift” for its time and offered superb reliability and build quality. The main difference between the Flow 2 and the new Flow X is the aesthetic design features and ergonomics, he explains. “Unlike many stairlifts, the Flow X is not a modular or an off-the-shelf product but a truly tailor-made stairlift with every model made to measure to ensure the perfect fit for the user. “ For example, says Adam, the seat has been specifically designed with a five-degree angle for a better seating position, enhancing upright posture and comfort. “At the same time, the armrests do not flip up but pivot outwards. This allows people with different levels of mobility to safely access the stairlift, and if they need to transfer from a wheelchair or are unable to sit down independently, there is adequate space for a carer or family member to assist.” The ergonomics of the armrests have also been designed to be similar to that of a walking stick to ensure
it is easy to grip and control, while the integrated joystick is designed to neatly fold into the armrest when not in use, Adam comments. “If space at the top and bottom of the staircase is an issue, the seat and footrests can automatically fold away – all these little touches add up to create what we believe is a nextgeneration curved stairlift solution.”
“If space at the top and bottom of the staircase is an issue, the seat and footrests can automatically fold away”
TECHNOLOGICAL FEATURES One of the main advantages with the Flow X is that it features ASL (Advanced Swivel and Levelling) technology, which was also available on the Flow 2. “This enables the stairlift to rotate and swivel during travel, ensuring that the stairlift is always in the safest and most comfortable position,” comments Adam. “Another benefit of ASL technology is that it allows the footrest to remain independent from the drive unit and swivel with the seat. “This allows the user to sit comfortably as they do not have to bend their knees as much, which helps with better posture.”
The ASL technology is unique to Access BDD, he says, and the swivelling-while-travelling function is fully patent protected. “Another feature of ASL is that it enables us to keep the rail lower to the ground as sometimes, on a bend, the rail will have to rise up, but with the Flow X, that is not necessary.” There are four rail options available: standard drop nose, vertical ‘short-start’ drop nose, horizontal overrun and parking curve. Unlike some models, there are no mechanical parts on show. There are other useful ergonomic features with the Flow X too, explains Adam. “Dealers and surveyors often
ADAM WAKES
The armrests of the Flow X do not flip up but pivot outwards
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