The Journey of Innovation: WHEEL-E
A project that could potentially ease the daily life of 75 million people using wheelchairs
How Valentin Revolutionized Mobility with WHEEL-E
Valentin Pierrat, a 23-year-old industrial engineer, has successfully combined his passion for innovation, engineering skills, and a strong desire to make a positive impact in the world. While studying to obtain his master's degree in Industry 4.0 Engineering at ESILV, Valentin embarked on an ambitious project after meeting Gladys during his internship at Laboratoire d'Ingénierie des Systèmes de Versailles (LISV).
Gladys, a passionate dancer, has been practicing her art for several years with her dance company Tatoo. Always pushing the boundaries of dance, Gladys was looking for a way to create new movements and explore new possibilities while avoiding chronic pains.
Discover Valentin's innovative project: WHEEL-E
From concept to reality: The power of collaboration with the 3DEXPERIENCE platform
75 million of people in the world use a wheelchair. It was thanks to this encounter that WHEEL-E, an electrical motorization solution, came to life.
Although he had no prior knowledge in the field of disabilities, Valentin quickly learned and understood the specific needs of wheelchair users. His technical skills and ability to listen to users were essential in designing and developing a product that truly meets their needs.
This is where the 3DEXPERIENCE platform came into play. Through the platform, Valentin was able to:
- design the device
- plan the development stages
- facilitate collaboration with other project stakeholders (such as engineering offices and partners)
The 3DEXPERIENCE platform was a valuable tool in turning the idea into reality, enabling advanced product modeling and simulation.
Nurturing innovation: A student's journey from idea to entrepreneurship
Valentin's student status greatly benefited the project. It provided cost-effective software access, resources, and funding through competitions. Valentin also profited from school machinery usage, student support, and enhanced collaboration.
The project was a major accomplishment in Valentin's journey as an engineer. He created a product designed with deep meaning and a real impact on the lives of people with reduced mobility. For Valentin, this represents the dream of being an engineer: solving problems with relevant solutions. WHEEL-E is innovative as it enables propulsion, steering, and reverse movement of the wheelchair through a compact and lightweight case, which allows more autonomy, and avoid chronic pains.
This project also launched Valentin into the professional world in an exceptional way. Through this experience, Valentin was able to meet numerous professionals in the field, build a strong network, and develop essential entrepreneurial skills.
Throughout his journey, Valentin encourages others to take the leap and believe in their projects. He emphasizes the importance of execution because a brilliant idea is worthless without hard work and successful implementation. Valentin also highlights the importance of falling in love with the problem to solve rather than being attached to a particular solution since solutions evolve while problems persist.