Since the introduction of the Noa shower chair in 2015, we have not stood still. What started as an innovative aid has, over the years, evolved into an advanced, reliable, and user-friendly shower chair, thanks to continuous improvements based on user feedback and technological developments.
From prototype to perfection
Noa began its journey in 2009 as an ambitious project, with a market launch in 2015. In the early years, the focus was on basic functionalities: simple operation and a modular battery pack. It soon became clear that the original battery pack did not meet practical needs, leading to increased battery capacity and improved control electronics.
Smarter controls, better performance
The chair received a significant technological upgrade with automatic resets in case of malfunctions and a ‘buffer’ function that stores the last known settings, even when the battery is empty. This prevents the need to recalibrate the chair after a drained battery, saving caregivers time and frustration.
Production innovations: from manual work to robotic precision
MSP Medical switched from CO₂ welding to TIG welding, making the weld seams virtually invisible. Thanks to robotic welding, weld quality is now consistently high, contributing to the chair’s durability.
The major breakthrough in 2019
A partnership with our partner Linak revolutionized Noa. Thanks to the introduction of a lithium-ion battery and a custom control box, electrical failures are now a thing of the past. Additionally, the most frequently used functions, such as height adjustment and tilting, can now be operated simultaneously, significantly increasing efficiency for caregivers. Linak’s motor is also so quiet that it is barely audible, enhancing the user experience.
Extra functionalities for greater ease of use
In addition to technological improvements, Noa now features an audio signal function that warns when the battery is nearly empty. This signal is accompanied by a flashing light on the handset, so caregivers can immediately see when it is time to charge the chair. If charging is delayed too long, the warning signal becomes stronger, and eventually, the chair can only move downward to ensure user safety at all times. Additionally, Noa’s wheels have been improved. MSP Medical now uses high-quality Tente wheels, including stainless steel variants with a total-lock braking system on three wheels and directional locking on the fourth wheel. This makes the chair extremely maneuverable and stable, even in wet environments. It is also important to note that Noa now fully complies with the strict MDR (Medical Device Regulation) guidelines. This means that the chair meets the highest standards for safety, quality, and traceability, which is essential for use in healthcare worldwide.
Extensive options for a customized shower chair
The Noa shower chair offers an extensive list of options, allowing it to be fully tailored to the user’s needs. This includes custom-made seats, backrests, various types of armrests, footrests, and different control options. For individuals who experience discomfort when sitting in the shower, specially developed custom-made cushions are available. These cushions are made of a high-quality material resistant to water, soap, and chlorine-based cleaning agents. As a result, they remain in excellent condition even with intensive use and frequent cleaning.
Ease of use first
All control elements have been moved to the handset, including the emergency stop button and the battery status indicator. This means fewer buttons on the chair itself and more convenience for the user. An integrated warning system notifies users in time when the battery needs to be charged, minimizing the risk of power failure.
Custom models for specific care needs
In 2020, our medical devices underwent a rebranding, and the shower chair was officially named ‘shower chair NOA.’ It now comes in three variants:
- Noa 135: Standard model for users up to 135 kg.
- Noa 190: For heavier users, up to 190 kg.
- Noa Low (available for both 135 kg and 190 kg):
Specially designed for clients in disability care, such as individuals with Down syndrome. Noa is the result of continuous innovation, with a focus on both technical perfection and ease of use. From improved battery performance to smart control options and customization, Noa continues to evolve to meet the highest healthcare standards.
Do you have any questions or suggestions for improvements for our NOA shower chair? Please contact us.