S. Saravana Muthu invented a remote-control toilet bed for his wife that won him the National Innovation Prize. His wife felt awkward about seeking help, a situation which many bedridden people can identify with. Saravana decided to make a bed that had an attached toilet and ease her life.He designed a cot fitted with a 12 V battery to operate two gear motors to move the attached toilet pot vertically and sideways.
He also incorporated a remote-controlled flushing system, making it easy for the user to clean the pot after use. The innovation includes a flush tank, a closet and a pipe connected to the septic tank. The patient can operate the toilet with the help of a remote. The buttons can be used to open the shutter and the closet, and as well as flush the toilet.
His invention attracted the attention of a regional newspaper, enabling Saravana Muthu to receive his first order in 2015 from a man in Chennai whose mother had been bedridden for six years. Gradually, word spread and Sarvana began receiving request for the innovative bed.
His innovation is supported under MVIF by GIAN and SIDBI for prototype development and marketing. He received a trophy, a certificate and Rs 2 lakh from President Ram Nath Kovind along with a reimbursement of Rs 35,000 he had used to make the prototype.
He says, “I have two goals – make a fuel-free car and become a role model for my children.” Saravana Muthu has already started working on making an emission-less car and hopes to complete his project soon.
He has a message for other innovators: “For the people who never thought that idea or creation is insignificant, my advice would be never to give up. I failed multiple times before making the right prototype for my wife. Had I given up because of external factors, my wife would have continued to be embarrassed. There is no alternative to hard work.” says Saravanmuthu
