This article is part of a dedicated interview series with Pilot Site partners of the InclusiveSpaces project, showcasing innovative tools, technologies, and solutions designed to enhance accessibility and support inclusive mobility in public, cultural, and recreational spaces. Through these interviews, the series explores how practical, user-centred solutions are being deployed to enable more independent and equitable access for all.
This interview was conducted with Dr Stavros Tsantzalis, Mechanical & Aeronautics Engineer and R&D Director at TOBEA Mechanical Applications, who leads the development of the iKiosk accessibility system.
Introduction: Addressing accessibility challenges in demanding environments
Could you briefly introduce the iKiosk and explain the need it was designed to address?
The tourist destination of the Acropolis is one of the most important attractions in Greece, attracting visitors from all over the world due to its immense historical and cultural value. The site covers an area of approximately 10 square kilometres and includes a network of roads that are mostly dirt paths or stone-covered surfaces. This layout makes touring the archaeological site physically demanding for many visitors.
For individuals with mobility difficulties, these challenges are even more pronounced, particularly during the hot summer months, when high temperatures further hinder safe access and navigation. As a result, many people with reduced mobility are unable to fully experience the site or are discouraged from visiting altogether.
Recognising these barriers, TOBEA proposes an innovative solution aimed at restoring accessibility and enabling independent movement in such demanding environments.
Introducing the iKiosk: a new approach to accessible mobility
How does the iKiosk support independence and accessibility for people with mobility challenges in public spaces?
The Accessibility Kiosk (iKiosk) is designed as a dedicated hosting area and mobility hub for electric mobility scooters. It provides individuals with mobility limitations the opportunity to temporarily leave their traditional wheelchair and use, free of charge, an electric scooter that allows them to move safely and comfortably within public, cultural, and tourist spaces.
By offering a reliable and easy-to-use mobility solution, the iKiosk significantly improves the visitor experience and facilitates independent movement in environments that would otherwise be difficult or inaccessible.
Supporting independence and inclusion in public spaces
How does the iKiosk support independence and accessibility for people with mobility challenges in public spaces?
The iKiosk is an innovative product aimed at enabling the independent mobility of all citizens, with particular emphasis on:
- People with disabilities
- Individuals with mobility challenges, such as older adults
- Members of other vulnerable social groups
- Tourists
- People with cultural particularities
The system is designed to be installed in a wide range of locations, including:
- Public spaces
- Green areas
- Sites of cultural and tourist interest, such as archaeological sites
By installing the iKiosk in these locations, accessibility can be restored in areas where deficiencies exist, without the need for permanent structural modifications.
The iKiosk specifically provides mobility solutions in:
- Areas with slopes exceeding the 5% limit
- Locations with uneven terrain, cobblestones, or small potholes
- Long walking routes of interest
Social and economic impact
The implementation of the Accessibility Kiosk strengthens the social role of the implementing body, such as a municipality or regional authority—by actively promoting inclusion and improving accessibility.
Through the installation of iKiosks, public authorities are able to:
- Offer a new and innovative mobility service
- Provide solutions for people with disabilities in areas where accessibility gaps exist
- Ensure better connectivity between public spaces, cultural sites, and green areas
- Attract visitors who were previously excluded due to mobility restrictions
- Enhance economic competitiveness while upgrading social services
As accessibility improves, visitor numbers increase, contributing to stronger local economic activity and more inclusive public spaces.
In the next article, the focus shifts from the concept and impact of the iKiosk to its technical design, pilot testing, installation process, and the lessons learned through real-world deployment.