We have developed a metal-less bamboo wheelchair with a wheelchair manufacturer, Sun-so'ing, based in Oita Prefecture and Japan Airlines International (JAL). Normally, wheelchair users who need to fly must undergo extra procedures such as body search at the airport security, since ordinary wheelchairs contain metal parts. Using the metal-less bamboo wheelchairs, they can remain seated during airport security screening. The JIS fatigue strength test for manually propelled wheelchairs is very strict, and the initial type of plastic parts that supported the wheels easily broke.

To overcome this problem, we have developed a two-point support system in the wheel portion to ensure the durability of the product without using metal parts, and have passed the JIS test. Other innovations such as easy-to-use footrests and brakes are also developed. The metal-less bamboo wheelchairs are already in service for passengers at Haneda, Oita, and Itami airports.