Anti-Tip Bar for manual wheelchair Nick Burjek Andrew Dawson Austin Dirks Katie Gallup Harrison Lamons

Problem Statement Manual wheelchairs are typically equipped with anti-tip bars that prevent the wheelchair from tipping over backwards and injuring the user. Decrease mobility of user Most users remove bars Higher risk on hills

Project Goals and Requirements Develop a mechanical system that engages to prevent accidental tipping while preserving the mobility of the active user. Inexpensive and lightweight Maintain upright footprint Be able to fold to fit into front seat of a car Allow user to rest in a reclined position Not inhibit any desired motion No added effort from user

Solution Use a hinge based support system with spring Serves 2 functions Provides resistance to user while achieving their balancing point Acts as a stop to prevent user from tipping backwards Stopping Pin Spring Multi-Directional wheel

Solution

Completed Work Initial Brainstorming Interviewed chair users to determine requirements Design by Analogy: springs in car suspension Began work on “funky functional prototype”

Current Work Continue developing first “funky-functional” prototype Determine any major problems with the design and develop solutions Have a finished prototype by Christmas Break

Future Work Begin design transfer from first prototype into Pro-E Have a more finished looking prototype machined Continue testing on this newer design If time permits, work on making the system smart by incorporating solenoid-pin device and angle sensors to actively engage when user tips past balance point