Accessibility and universal design: motorization and improvement of a wheelchair

Abstract

Using electric power wheelchairs improves the mobility, independence and autonomy of many disabled patients and elders. But for every using group there are different needs and requirements that needs to be meet, such as size, height and steering methods. Many markets offer wheelchairs in different sizes and with different steering methods so that every use group can move independently. In this paper, we show how we will meet the requirements of a specific client who’s main priority is to become more accessible in daily events. We will combine two different wheelchairs, an electric power wheelchair and a non-electric buggy and we will show how to make the control of the steering and a communication system more accessible. These solutions will solve the problem and improve the mobility of a specific user.