| dc.description.abstract | Wheelchairs significantly improve mobility, freedom, and quality of life in the
lives of people with disabilities. However, because of their limited financial resources
and they may already own a traditional wheelchair, many of them find it difficult to
justify investing in a new electric wheelchair. To approach this customer segment, the
idea is to develop a device that connects to an existing wheelchair, transforming it into
a low-cost electric wheelchair. The design used a hub motor which serves as the primary
driving force, providing the necessary propulsion for the wheelchair. The IC controller
acts as the central control unit, managing the motor's operation and ensuring smooth
and efficient performance. The Li-ion battery acts as the power source, supplying the
required energy for the electric conversion, enabling the wheelchair to operate
effectively for approximately one hour. To enhance the functionality and safety of the
electric wheelchair, additional features have been incorporated. The backward control
capability allows users to effortlessly navigate in reverse, offering greater
maneuverability. An ultrasonic sensor has been added to detect impediments and sound
an alert when they are within a specific distance. Additionally, to identify cases of falls
or tilting, a tilt sensor has also been installed which triggers an email to a linked
smartphone, alerting caretakers or emergency contacts of the occurrence. The handlebar
is adjustable to accommodate various users. By combining these accessories and
functionalities, the traditional wheelchair can be transformed into an electric wheelchair
that not only offers enhanced mobility but also incorporates advanced safety measures.
This thesis report presents the design, implementation, and evaluation of these electric
wheelchair accessories based on the force analysis results, simultaneously focusing on
their practicality, usability, and overall impact on the user's quality of life. | en_US |
