Mechanically Assisted Dependent Transfer Mechanism

Jessica SandovalMelissa Fredette

Bryant Cornell Shih-Chung Chang

Chris Johnston

Technology• Transfer individuals with

disabilities• Self contained device• Simple operation• Patent pending• Functioning prototype

Existing Products Overhead devices Sling-based Manual transfers

Advantages

Non-invasive Operator and user

safety Simple operation Self contained Cost Increased mobility

Market Analysis Airline industry

− 20 major air carriers− 32 national air carriers− 89 regional and commuter air carriers− 517 commercial airports

Health care− 7569 Hospitals− New regulation regarding patient transfers− >16,000 nursing homes in US

Home care− Fastest growing market

− Escalating health care costs− Independence

Market Analysis 2.7 Million wheelchair users (2006) Robust, increasing demand

• “Baby Boomer” generation Prevalence of orthopedic impairments

Business ModelEvaluation Criteria

Start up capital

Overhead costs

Potential return (ST)

Potential return (LT)

Marketing costs

Time to market

IP protection

Threat fromcompetitors

Reqd. business functions

Potential for expansion

Quality control

Ease of market entry

Price level

Profit margin

Risk

BM Attributes

In house manufacturing

Outsource manufacturing Direct Selling LeasingDistributors License technology

Joint venture (partnership)

Porter’s Five Forces

Potential New Entrants• Patent pending

Buyers• Medium to high power

• Switching cost • Low frequency

purchase

Rivalry Among Competing Sellers• Haycomp lift

• Multiple competing products• New expanding market

Suppliers• Low power

• Many sources

Substitute Products• Manual Lifting

Major Hurdles Product cost vs. current state Required development Current economic situation

Keys to Success Minimize production costs Maintain a price competitive product Identifying customer benefit Efficient distribution channel Gain market awareness

Viability Growing Market

• Niche • Underserved• Limited new products

Airline Industry• Competitors• Competitive advantage• Market definition

Expansion to additional markets

• Brand awareness