Alumni Spotlight: Tim Visos-Ely - StrideTech

Meet Tim Visos-Ely, a 2019 CU Boulder alum and co-founder of StrideTech, a company that produces an embedded walker attachment that provides real-time haptic feedback when incorrect walker use is detected.

Tim developed StrideTech by taking advantage of the many entrepreneurial resources at CU Boulder! Tim utilized Design for America, New Venture Challenge, and Catalyze CU to develop his StrideTech idea into a viable business. Tim was one of the founding members of Design for America, a student organization that teaches and uses human-centered design to create local and social impact. In addition to DFA, his team won the 2019 New Venture Challenge with a grand prize of $100,000. Tim also participated in Catalyze CU (a summer-long startup accelerator designed for CU students, faculty, and staff.) With endless opportunities provided by CU, Tim was able to develop his walker technology idea into a reality!

StrideTech

StrideTech is a technology embedded walker attachment that provides real-time haptic feedback when incorrect walker use is detected, empowering aging adults to learn and maintain correct mobility device use. StrideTech was inspired by Tim watching his grandmother struggle with incorrect walker use. Oftentimes patients are using walkers incorrectly and without a professional close by, there is an increased fall risk and dependence on walker use. Tim realized that the biggest companies weren’t solving walker use problems and took it upon himself to create a solution.

StrideTech utilizes vibration and LED feedback when incorrect walker use is detected. Vibration through the handles and a LED light will advise patients on what needs to be corrected (stand up taller, closer to walker etc.) The device can be used with physical therapists and by patients alone.

Tim developed the idea while in the Design for America program. During the program, he was encouraged to approach a complex challenge. Tim quickly thought of his grandmother’s issues with her walker. Tim and his team were able to redesign the current walker structure and get a patent on the new walker design. StrideTech is currently in the testing phase. They hope to bring the device to the market by the end of 2021.

Advice for Current Students

“Use classes, which you pay for, to work on your ideas. Make the university pay for you to work on your idea. You’re in an environment where there are so many smart people around you and you won’t find that as easily accessible in the real world. Being able to tap into knowledge is huge. Reach out to the experts while you have the opportunity and you’ll find that they’re usually really happy to talk to you!”

For more information on StrideTech, please contact Tim at tim@stridetechmedical.com.