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

2. 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

3. 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

4. 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

5. Solution

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

7. 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

8. 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