Use of tensiles elements in wheelchair frame design

点击翻译按钮获取中文摘要

Wheelchairs are a widespread and successful assistive technology for people with disabilities, with evolved designs that enable activities of daily living and promote participation in the community. Modern "ultralight" rigid wheelchairs, that weigh about 20 lbs. or less, offer the latest in performance to many people who are independent and active in their community. The Elevation wheelchair, developed by the principal applicant, was recently introduced to the market as an alternative to conventional ultralight wheelchairs. The Elevation design provides substantial usability benefits by offering user-adjustable seat positioning during normal usage, albeit at the cost of additional frame weight. Wheelchair frame weight has an impact in terms of wheeling performance and usability (e.g. a lighter wheelchair eases the burden when lifting the frame into a car after a person transfers).