Integrated Grab Bar/Chair Rail System

A grab bar is a surface-mounted bar that provides assistance for people with limited mobility, such as seniors and those with disabilities. However, people are hesitant to install traditional grab bars in their homes or businesses, viewing them as unsightly. The team developed an integrated grab bar (IGB) with lighting that can be hidden in a chair rail. This innovative IGB is the product of the team’s expertise in multiple disciplines. The team put their energies toward drafting, creating schematics, building and conducting various analyses and tests to make the IGB a reality.

The result of these endeavors is a mechanical structure that can be mounted onto an existing wall. While deployed, the system can support the weight of a falling human and can be used as a guide support for traversing through a building. While not in use, the IGB can be folded up against the wall so it resembles an aesthetic chair rail until needed.

The IGB also features an electronic subsystem to control lighting elements. Material selection for this project was heavily driven by the goal of developing an eco-friendly product through the use of recyclable 3D-printed materials.