Introduction

The presence of architectural barriers limits disabled and people with reduced mobility in accessing public or private places. These barrier removal requires long, costly and complex operations. This technology allows a disabled user to climb obstacles autonomously, single steps or staircases in a safe and effective way. The wheelchair can be used even for the daily mobility on flat ground both indoor and outdoor.

Technical features

The wheelchair is equipped with two locomotion units made by a frame with three legs, and an internal transmission system. Each leg has a wheel on an extremity. This design allows the wheelchair climbing obstacles through the rotation of the locomotion units. The two locomotion units are motorized and they are the traction elements for the wheelchair. They ensure the front contact points for the device. The rear contact point is guaranteed by a couple of pivoting wheels during movements on flat ground. A track replaces the pivoting wheels during movements on stairs. The track is idle and for this reason it is small and lightweight. Moreover, the track allows a regular movement and ensures static and dynamic stability. Finally, the wheelchair has a seat orientation mechanism that is able to compensate oscillations to guarantee a comfortable and regular motion for the user during stair ascent or descent.

Possible Applications

• Good maneuverability on flat ground, indoor, outdoor, uneven and structured environments;
• Capable to climb single obstacles or steps;
• Capability to climb staircases upward or downward.

Advantages

• Small dimensions and lightweight;
• Simple structure;
• Easy to use;
• High comfort;
• Safe;
• Human centered design.