Barrier-free wheelchair with a mechanical transmission

Abstract

Wheelchairs are an important means of transportation for the elderly and disabled. However, the movement of wheelchairs on long curbs and stairs is restricted. In this study, a wheelchair for climbing stairs was developed based on a mechanical transmission system that rotates the entire driving part through a link structure and an actuator to change the speed. The first mode drives the caterpillar, and the second mode drives the wheels. When driving on flat ground, it uses landing gears and wheels, and when climbing stairs, it uses the caterpillar; accordingly, a stable driving is possible. The stability of the transmission is confirmed through stress analysis. The method used in our study makes it is possible to manufacture lightweight wheelchairs because a single motor drives both the wheel and caterpillar through the transmission system.