College - Author 1

College of Engineering

Department - Author 1

Mechanical Engineering Department

Degree Name - Author 1

BS in Mechanical Engineering

College - Author 2

College of Engineering

Department - Author 2

Mechanical Engineering Department

Degree - Author 2

BS in Mechanical Engineering

College - Author 3

College of Engineering

Department - Author 3

Mechanical Engineering Department

Degree - Author 3

BS in Mechanical Engineering

College - Author 4

College of Engineering

Department - Author 4

Mechanical Engineering Department

Degree - Author 4

BS in Mechanical Engineering

Date

6-2022

Primary Advisor

Sarah Harding, College of Engineering, Mechanical Engineering Department

Abstract/Summary

This project was centered around developing a fully independently driven powered wheelchair attachment that would allow users to traverse non-wheelchair accessible terrain. The initial goal was to create a full-scale model that would allow our user to use and test as a prototype to get over curbs and some light dirt off-roading. However, as the project progressed and limitations of time and money came up, this project was rescoped to a quarter-scale proof of concept model. The goal of this new project was to create a prototype that would carry a scaled-down load and traverse a scaled-down curb. This was to prove if this concept was possible with the proper specifications and loads that would be scaled up to simulate a full-scale model. In changing the scope to a quarter-scale model, the design of the verification prototype was centered around some critical components and dimensions that would be important when scaled up. Some of these specifications included ground clearance, angle of tilt, and some electronics components. We designed and built this verification prototype with parts that we found would best be adapted if they were to be scaled up. These components included things like axles and fasteners that could be easily changed to a different size. Also, all of the electronics were chosen so they could be reused with different specifications. When doing all of the design verification testing, we found that this prototype met most of the specifications we set to meet. The main problem we had was our lack of a reliable tread system, and its trouble with durability and ability to grab onto and climb steps. Our testing shows that this concept is possible at a full-scale model with some slight changes. At full-scale, this prototype would have much more durable treads and space to add additional systems for safety and comfort, like a suspension system.

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