Elijah Baluyot, Michael Corona, Garrett Bryant, Ronan Duffy, Dylan Errigo, Nikola Levterov, Samuel Mariash, Ryan Nieves

The Roll Models team was tasked with redesigning the standard rollator system to minimize the risk of falls, without using traditional hand brakes. The result is The Rede Rollator, a groundbreaking device offering two key innovations: complete 360° stability and an intuitive, three-position thumb-actuated brake system. These features ensure both unrestricted movement in tight spaces and a secure, comfortable grip. The Rede Rollator’s active fall prevention system is engineered to reduce injury. Upon detecting a fall, it transforms from an unstable prism into a stable pyramidal shape, which quickly increases lateral stability and keeps the user’s center of gravity within the wheelbase. This design helps prevent tipping and ensures that the rollator is always prepared to stop a fall by guiding the user to walk inside the structure. In the event of a fall, the rollator’s center support splits into two halves via servo motor-controlled pins, splaying outward for greater stability. The extended legs push the user away from obstacles, and once the user stands, the pins reinsert, restoring the rollator to its original state. If a user falls to one side, that side of the rollator will splay outward first, keeping the center of gravity within the wheelbase. Additionally, a scissor lift-like mechanism slows the fall. The rollator’s bottom struts can be folded down for compact transport. Unlike traditional cable brakes, which can be difficult for older adults with limited hand strength, the Rede Rollator uses a scroll-wheel brake system. This innovative design incorporates a return spring rotary potentiometer to control the brake pads, offering three settings: locked, unlocked, and variable braking adjustment. The rollator also features four points of contact with the user—two handles and two harness attachment points— promoting correct posture.