08 - Wheelchair Technology

Question 1

Wheelchair def

Answer 1

• chair on wheels that helps ppl to move around; it is used by indvdl who have impairments that limit they ability to walk
• wheels: small for steering, total from 2 to 6, usually 4

Question 2

Manual wheelchairs (active)

Answer 2

• types: propelled by attendant or self-propelled; stiff or folding frame
• pros: en efficient, smaller size, indpdce, exercise, affordable
• cons: fatiguing, repetitive stress inj, slopes/uneven terrain
• hybrid: power-assisted for support, add-on device

Question 3

Power wheelchairs (passive)

Answer 3

• pros: no min force reqd, indpdce, lg dist, drive trains for != terrains
• cons: heavy, hard to transport, charging, expensive
• input: proportional (joystick) or non-proportional (switch)

Question 4

Wheelchair design

Answer 4

• frame: box, cantilever
• frame angle, seat angle
• trail positive, increase: more stable but less maneuverable
• weight: CoG, tilting condition, 3 vs 4-wheel chair

Question 5

Special wheelchairs

Answer 5

• handbikes
• sports
• track wheelchair, sandcruiser

Question 6

Wheelchair limitations

Answer 6

• low user height
• no stair climbing
• uneven terrain
• can tip
• no movt intelligence

Question 7

New technologies in wheelchair

Answer 7

• standing, stairs

- follow lines, collision safeguard, voice confirmation