Movement reimagined - we challenge status quo.
Uprising Inc.
More independence and enjoyment of life - thanks to the world's most flexible walking aid
Our mission is to break down barriers in the healthcare sector and empower people with disabilities to lead self-determined lives. Aufstand AG stands for the courage to question existing solutions and rethink them.
Our startup team combines knowledge from technology, medicine, and entrepreneurship.
Our first product? VariWalk. A height-adjustable walking aid at the touch of a button. The optimal height in every situation ensures sufficient strength and the correct posture at all times. Its compact size makes it an additional aid in everyday life for people with disabilities.
This is VariWalk
1. Getting up without letting go
At the touch of a button, you can switch between the perfect handle height for standing up and walking. The handle is never released during this process, making it as easy and safe to use as possible.
2 Compact for everyday use
When retracted, VariWalk can be stored almost anywhere – be it in the car on the passenger seat, in a shopping cart, a bicycle basket, a bag, or on a wheelchair. This means maximum flexibility for whatever comes up.
3 Ergonomisch & modern
It was high time that a walking aid set new standards not only ergonomically, but also aesthetically - thanks to high-quality materials, multifunctional design and elegant lines, everyone can be seen with VariWalk.
4 Sustainable & Social
By using recycled aluminum, components consistently optimized for long service life and easy repairability, and assembly in a social facility, we do our best to do justice to society and the environment.
Our team
Samuel built up his technical expertise with a Master of Science in Engineering (MSE) after completing his commercial apprenticeship.
Due to his own physical disability, he understands how valuable mobility and independence are and drives the company forward with passion and vision.
Kevin also has expertise in business administration, finance, and the service industry for modern recruiting and HR.
With his startup experience, he is responsible for the forward-looking strategy and communication.
Founder & CEO
Samuel Dutler
Late Co-Founder
Kevin Mauchle
Als Dienstleisterin im Bereich von nachhaltigen Innovationen ist die RHS Innovation GmbH der ideale Partner für die Entwicklung unserer Gehhilfe.
Marco Walder
As a former design engineer and with a degree in systems engineering, Marco brings the necessary know-how to the technical development of the walking aid. His expertise is essential for the step from prototype to mass-produced product.
Marco Walder
Engineer & Designer
Thanks to its outstanding expertise in the development of innovative medical products, konplan Schweiz AG is an absolute key partner and supports us both in the development of VariWalk into a series product and in obtaining MDR-compliant approval.
partner
board
As a physician and entrepreneur, Jonathan combines medical and entrepreneurial expertise. His professional assessment as a doctor, his network in the healthcare industry, and his outstanding networking skills are particularly valuable to Aufstand AG.
With an Executive MBA from HSG and the University of Toronto, Priska brings valuable expertise as an entrepreneur.
As a business angel, venture partner at Dart Ventures and tax expert, she provides significant support to Aufstand AG as a member of the board of directors.
Board member & investor
Priska Rösli
Board of Directors & Physician
Jonathan Hanhart
Difference to conventional walking aids
370,000 people...
...sind allein in der Schweiz täglich auf eine Gehhilfe angewiesen.
(Quelle: Allianz, Sicher zu Fuss – Mobilität und Sicherheit von Fussgängern, 2019)
Unlike VariWalk, existing assistive devices only provide correct support for walking. Standing up, however, is quite difficult with them. This can reduce quality of life due to:
Shoulder pain due to overuse
Increased risk of falling and fear of it
Reduced independence
Increased care needs
Current status
01 - Technical Feasibility Study
Several functional prototypes were built and successfully tested.
02 - Stress tests of the mechanism
The main mechanism was subjected to static measurements and passed with flying colors.
03 - Patentanmeldung
The invention was documented and submitted for a patent.
04 - Prototypes
The first fully functional prototypes have been manufactured.
05 - Tests with experts and affected individuals
Currently, tests are being conducted with physiotherapy centers and clinics, and measurements are being taken to find the best possible solution to the problem.
06 - Securing financing
We have secured initial investors and funding. For the next steps, we are proactively seeking further partners, investors, and funders.
07 - Optimization & Industrialization
Further development for series production is possible as soon as the necessary financing is secured.
08 - Approval & Market Entry
Approval as a medical device and product launch are targeted for 2026.
Be there!
Are you interested in supporting us? For example, by contributing your expertise, as a test subject, or as an investor?
We look forward to hearing from you!
clinic
partner
Affected
investor
tester
Specialist retailer
Nursing professional