Modification of a Wheelchair to Correct for One-Handed Use

1. Modification of a Wheelchair to Correct for One-Handed Use Joshua C. Nipper Mark M. Wasfy January 31, 2000

2. The Problem • Mario is a young boy with Cerebral Palsy, and lacks the coordination to operate his wheelchair • Currently, Mario uses one hand to push his chair and spins in a circle

3. Solution A: A Steering/Brake Mechanism • The wheels would be joined by an axle facilitating straight movement, and a hand brake would be used for steering

4. Solution B: A Forward/Backward limitation • The wheels would be joined by an axle, but steering would be limited to straight and forward or backwards and turning Forward / Straight Reverse / Turn

5. Pros and Cons • Solution A offers a tighter control over steering, but is more complex • Solution B offers an easier operation, but lesser control • After further review of Mario and consultation with his teachers, it is felt that Solution B is more feasible • Mario can be “trained” simple tasks, but will lack the coordination to actively steer his chair

6. Present donated wheelchair

7. Repairs to wheelchair • New tire inner tubes • Expand padding and harness • Foam hand grip • Miscellaneous nuts and bolts

8. Problems with wheelchair modifications • Two independent axles • spokes • limited space

9. Conclusions • Mario’s problem • Primary solution • Feasibility of solution