SBIR Phase I: Folding Power Wheelchair with Modular Battery System

This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I research project will develop an innovative power wheelchair and scooter design concept that overcomes the primary shortcomings of current designs - excessive bulk and weight. Current designs suffer from structurally inefficient frame design, heavy drive-trains with excessive rolling resistance, and the bulk and weight of the lead-acid batteries. The commercial application of this project will be a successful introduction of a design approach resulting in a significantly more transportable design that will stimulate further technical innovation in an industry that serves a very important social service.