This design utilizes a forward offset drive wheel to shorten the overall length of the chair, bring the handrim forward facilitating a better propultion stroke and position the drive wheels closer to the center of mass making it easier to turn in place.
(Georgia Institute of Technology, 2009)
Atwood, Jason
Redesign statement. The Track Slide and Spring-Loaded designs presented several limitations in range of motion and robustness, respectively. As such, a redesign was conducted by Jason Atwood, research technician at CATEA, Georgia Tech. The original motions are retained and accomplished through mostly upgraded hardware.
(Georgia Institute of Technology, 2009)
Jowers, Jonathan
Slowing down and maintaining control of a wheelchair can be difficult for some users, especially those with poor hand strength and/or sensation. Ramps and slopes present a significant barrier to independent and safe mobility. Collisions, falls and/or tips are consistent with running into an object at too high of speed. A need exists for a braking system for manual wheelchair users that allows them to use their hands more effectively and efficiently while braking.
(Georgia Institute of Technology, 2009)
Holland, Kimberly; Han, Randy; Wells, Taylor; Bell, Katherine
Mid-drive power wheel chairs (PWC) have become more popular in recent years. However, due to the placement of the front casters, the traditional side-mounted footrests have been replaced by a single center-mounted footrest. Unfortunately, center-mounted footrests do not have a lift/lower mechanism that is easily operable by certain PWC users who transfer independently. Many PWC users have limited trunk strength, limited range of motion, decreased sensitivity in their lower body, and lack of fine motor function. This causes difficulty reaching the footrest to raise it. There is a need for a design solution that allows PWC users to independently lift and lower the footrest.
(Georgia Institute of Technology, 2007)
Johanson, Colin; Jowers, Jonathan
The ‘Kangan Roo’ is an innovative electric wheelchair design that can automatically contract and extend its wheelbase while in use. By lengthening the wheelbase it becomes a sturdy outdoor electric wheelchair that can ride up and down curbs of up to 15cm in height. By shortening the length of the wheelbase it becomes a neat and compact electric wheelchair, with the reduced turning circle making it suitable for indoor use.