Manual Wheelchair Propulsion Attachment with Segmented Motor Module
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Solution Overview
Problem
Manual wheelchairs lack the power and maneuverability benefits of motorized wheelchairs, particularly in traversing inclines and long distances, due to limited user control, stability, power, comfort, and portability in existing drive attachments.
Innovation Solution
A propulsion attachment for manual wheelchairs featuring three wheels, a motor, gearbox, and handlebar, which can attach to the footrest, operate at variable speeds, and switch between forward and reverse directions, with integrated brakes for enhanced control and stability, and can be partially located underneath the seat to minimize the system's footprint.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If a motorized hub or power drive unit is added to a manual wheelchair, then power and ability to traverse inclines is improved, but user control and maneuverability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The propulsion attachment is designed as a detachable module that can be attached to or removed from the manual wheelchair. This segmentation allows the user to have full control when using the manual wheelchair alone, and gain motorized power when the attachment is connected, without compromising maneuverability in either configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The propulsion attachment serves multiple functions: it can be used as a standalone three-wheeled vehicle, attached to a manual wheelchair for enhanced mobility, or detached for storage. The handlebar and controller provide universal control mechanisms that work in both manual and motorized modes, maintaining user control across different operating states.
2Power
If a propulsion attachment with motor and control systems is added, then power and speed are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The propulsion attachment combines the motor, gearbox, batteries, controller, and three-wheeled vehicle structure into a single integrated unit. This merging reduces the overall complexity compared to adding separate motorized components to an existing wheelchair, as all powertrain elements are pre-assembled in one module.
Solution Approach 2:
The propulsion attachment includes its own integrated power source (batteries) and control system (controller with throttle and brake controls), making it a self-contained unit that does not require complex integration with the wheelchair's existing systems. The attachment serves itself with dedicated braking controls and power management.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the propulsion attachment is designed with three wheels and integrated controls, then stability and power are improved, but the footprint and portability are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The propulsion attachment is designed to be dynamically configurable - it can be attached to the wheelchair when power and stability are needed, and detached when portability and minimal footprint are priorities. The attachment can also be positioned in different configurations (attached to footrest or stored separately) to adapt to different spatial requirements.
4Ease of operation
If brakes are added to control each wheel, then control and safety are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The propulsion attachment includes dedicated brake controls that are self-contained within the attachment's control system. Each brake is directly associated with its corresponding wheel control mechanism, providing intuitive and immediate control without requiring complex integration with external braking systems.
Data Source
AI summary
This relates to a propulsion attachment for a manual wheelchair and methods of operation. The propulsion attachment can include three wheels, a motor, a gearbox, and a handlebar. The propulsion attachment can attach to the footrest of the wheelchair using a pin. The motor can be located in the rear side of the propulsion attachment and can push the user in a forward direction. Alternatively, the user can manipulate a switch located on the handlebar to allow the propulsion attachment to pull the user in a reverse direction. The propulsion attachment can include a plurality of brakes, where each brake can control one of the wheels. Additionally, the propulsion attachment can operate at variable speeds using the motor and the power from one or both batteries.