Numerical Modelling of Loads on the Structural Elements of an Innovative Mechanism Enabling Wheelchairs to Negotiate Stairs

Abstract

This article presents a numerical study of the loads on the structural components of an innovative system designed to enable a typical wheelchair to negotiate stairs. Such a system is a structure of several levers moved in an appropriate sequence. An important aspect of the design described was that it should not be a completely new wheelchair structure, but merely a set of mechanisms which, when fitted under the seat, would enable the user to negotiate stairs and other obstacles arising from the difference in height. The numerical analysis of the wheelchair movement was performed using the MSC Adams software. On its basis, drives or actuators that could be used in the actual mechanism were also selected. The wheelchair structure and the device under analysis were designed using Autodesk Inventor.