🦽 Motorized Wheelchair Trainer
Design Engineering Process
1. Define the Problem
Identified the need for safe, accessible training tools for individuals learning to operate motorized wheelchairs, addressing safety concerns and skill development challenges.
2. Research & Gather Information
Studied wheelchair mechanics, accessibility guidelines, existing training simulators, user experience research with wheelchair users, and safety standards for assistive technology.
3. Brainstorm Solutions
Developed concepts for virtual reality training, physical simulation platforms, adaptive control interfaces, and progressive difficulty training scenarios tailored to different user abilities.
4. Prototype & Build
Created initial prototypes combining physical wheelchair components with electronic controls, haptic feedback systems, and software interfaces for realistic simulation environments.
5. Test & Evaluate
Conducted user testing with wheelchair users of varying experience levels, measuring learning outcomes, safety metrics, user satisfaction, and system reliability through controlled training sessions.
6. Refine & Improve
Iterated on design based on user feedback, improving interface accessibility, adding adaptive difficulty scaling, enhancing safety features, and optimizing the learning experience.
Technical Implementation
Hardware Architecture
- • Arduino Microcontroller Integration: Programmed multiple Arduino boards to manage real-time sensor input and wheelchair motor control
- • Proximity Sensor Array: Deployed ultrasonic and infrared proximity sensors around the wheelchair perimeter for 360° obstacle detection
- • Haptic Feedback System: Integrated vibration motors triggered by proximity alerts to warn patients of nearby obstacles without relying solely on visual cues
Patient Navigation & Control
- • Adaptive Motor Control: Implemented Arduino-based speed limiting and directional controls calibrated to individual patient capabilities
- • Assisted Navigation: Developed semi-autonomous obstacle avoidance that gently corrects trajectory when sensors detect hazards, empowering patient confidence
- • Real-time Monitoring Dashboard: Created wireless telemetry system to display navigation data, proximity alerts, and performance metrics for caregivers and therapists
Safety Features
- • Emergency stop systems and collision prevention
- • Speed limiting and stability controls
- • User monitoring and assistance alerts
Impact & Outcomes
Successfully developed a training system that improved user confidence and safety in motorized wheelchair operation, with measurable improvements in navigation skills and reduced anxiety during real-world use.
Photo Gallery
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