Reaching for Independence: Challenges for a New Concept of Wheelchair Design

Abstract

Fausto Orsi Medola1, Carlos Alberto Fortulan2, Carla da Silva Santana1,3 and Valeria Meirelles Carril Elui1,3 Programme of Post-Graduation Interunits in Bioengineering – EESC/FMRP/IQSC University of Sao Paulo, 2Department of Mechanical Engineering, Sao Carlos School of Engineering, University of Sao Paulo, 3Department of Neuroscience and Behavioural Sciences, Faculty of Medicine of Ribeirao Preto, University of Sao Paulo, Brazil Notes: Important stuff for a wheelchair - the user has to be allowed to steer easily - should be lightweight and can be put in a car - ideally is foldable to reduce volume when not used