Hopper

There are different types of prostheses associated with different activities. They can be classified into two main categories: walking prosthetic feet and running blades. Walking feet are used for walking and can offer different levels of dynamism but do not enable running. These walking feet are currently reimbursed by social security in France. In contrast, running blades developed for running are not reimbursed in France.

The racing blades are not refunded and cost more than 4000 €. Great athletes can get them through clubs, sponsors but casual athletes or beginners are forgotten. Also, the current products are specific to several activities and for example current blades are specific to running and more specifically to track racing. Finally, the current products are developed for high performance and can be difficult to use for a novice.

The idea is to offer a range of products available at lower prices thanks to the upcycling of carbon waste from the aeronautical industry. These products will be developed to enlarge the public of amputees practicing a sport activity. Their design considers the comfort as well as the will to make the blade more versatile in the activities that can be performed.

A first racing blade has a well-advanced prototyping and allows today to adapt to different terrains thanks to a simple and fast sole change system. Our ambition is to develop different sports blades to meet the identified needs. But our main goal for 2024 is to provide an adjustable blade allowing a variety of sport activities never seen before. With a single blade, to be able to practice activities with different mechanical needs from hiking to sprinting thanks to simplified adjustments of height, stiffness and sole. These adjustments can also help children as they grow and gain weight without having to change blades every year.

Hopper supports the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals 3 (Good Health and Well-Being) and 10 (Reduced Inequalities) by making physical activity more inclusive and accessible. The company develops solutions that allow people with disabilities, as well as those facing technical or financial barriers, to participate in sports and enjoy the health benefits that come with it. By promoting equal access to physical activity, Hopper not only fosters healthier lifestyles but also helps reduce inequalities, ensuring that more people can engage in activities that were previously out of reach.

The 3DEXPERIENCE platform enables Hopper to centralize the design of its future products and streamline collaboration with industrial partners through ENOVIA. With integrated project management tools, the company can effectively monitor and drive its innovation programs. CATIA, supported by Composite Design, Simulation, and Optimization, allows Hopper to model and refine prototypes and products with precision. In addition, 3DEXCITE provides powerful visualization capabilities, delivering high-quality visuals that support communication and engagement.

Collaboration is a key element in the development of a prosthesis. 

• Step 1: Understanding the patient's needs with health experts.
• Step 2: Biomechanical analysis with specialized engineers and associated simulations.
• Step 3: Design and calculation of composite structures with materials engineers. 

Many experts &  Industrial Partners (such as Airbus, Salomon, Decathlon) gathered around a common objective: accessibility and support for the patient to rediscover sport in the best conditions.