Variable Position Mid-Wheel Drive System for Power Wheelchairs

This project designs, constructs, and evaluates a concept model based on current mid wheel designs. The concept model uses a variable position drive wheel system that can move forward or backward from the mid-wheel position using a simple mechanical system to change the position of the drive wheels. A series of five structured tests for maneuverability and/or stability are used to compare performance as a function of placement of the drive wheels. The feasibility of this concept model is based on demonstrating that a variable position drive wheel system optimizes performance under a greater variety of terrain and environmental conditions compared to a single position drive wheel system.