Kalogon’s Collaborative Design Process

At Kalogon, collaborative design and rapid prototyping are the foundation of our product development process. By prioritizing customer feedback and iterative improvements, we’ve developed solutions that address real needs for wheelchair users, healthcare professionals, and even the U.S. Air Force.  

Rapid Prototyping in Action  

Our process begins with listening. Kalogon’s first prototype was built in just one week, and we consistently deliver multiple iterations faster than industry standards. For instance, working with an aviation partner, we successfully developed and refined two prototypes within one month. Other stories include our collaboration with the U.S. Air Force, where we adapted our iterative design approach to develop smart seat cushions (Orbiter Ace) for B-52 pilots. By leveraging techniques inspired by SpaceX, we designed hardware optimized for cost-effective, rapid iteration, producing dozens of prototypes for testing with end-users. We’re able to do this by approaching each project with a combination of  data-driven insights and empathy-driven design, ensuring every iteration addresses both technical and user-centric challenges.

Data-Driven Insights

The team’s ability to quickly develop, test, and refine products keeps us ahead of industry trends. One standout initiative is our Pressure Mapping Events, which evaluate users’ existing cushions to identify pressure points and compare results with Kalogon’s innovative seating solutions. These events validate design changes, such as modular pre-ischial ridges or redesigned pelvic supports, and drive meaningful improvements in comfort and functionality. We offer these services for free through partnerships with local rehab gyms, fostering community excitement while raising awareness about the importance of proper seating.

Empathy-Driven Design

Our design process begins with understanding users’ real-world challenges through direct engagement and research. This approach ensures our products, like Orbiter Med, a Medicare-approved custom wheelchair cushion, deliver meaningful improvements in comfort and health by integrating features like custom molding, dynamic motion, and ambient sensing.

In addition, our Kalogon Flyers program supports athletes by providing both monetary compensation, our innovative seating solutions products to trial and review, and an opportunity to own our products when they complete objectives in the program. Beyond that, Flyers play a critical role in our design process by offering early product feedback and ongoing insights. Their real-world experience provides our team with invaluable commentary, helping refine features quickly and ensuring the final product meets users’ needs. If you're interested in being one of the first to test drive our products, check out our application here or send a request to www.contactus@kalogon.com. 

Our Practical, Iterative Approach  

Kalogon’s commitment to collaboration and iteration allows us to respond quickly to challenges and deliver effective solutions. By combining customer insights, rapid prototyping, and advanced technology, we’re able to develop products that truly make a difference – efficiently and effectively.  

At Kalogon, we’re proving that innovation doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s about listening, iterating, and delivering solutions that work.