Work

Research on Reducing the Energy Intensity of the Drive System of a Wheelchair Equipped with an Assisted Uphill Module

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: This study examines the impact of the reversing interlock module on the energy intensity of manual wheelchair propulsion while considering the need for the module to cooperate with wheels exhibiting significant roundness deviations. The aim was to determine the additional energy demand caused by the module and analyze the effect of the number of one-sided ribs in flexible rollers on energy consumption. Experiments were conducted on a specially designed test bench to measure the torque, power, and energy required to rotate the wheels. The results show that the use of flexible rollers reduces energy consumption compared to rigid rollers—by 8% at a clamping force of 10 N and by 13% at 100 N. A linear relationship between the clamping force and energy savings, along with a significant influence of the roller rotation direction, was observed. When rotating in the less rigid direction, a 17% reduction in energy intensity was achieved. These findings suggest that incorporating flexible rollers in the reversing interlock module can significantly enhance the energy efficiency of wheelchairs.

Source: Applied Sciences

DOI: 10.3390/app142411818

Authors: Bartosz Wieczorek, Łukasz Warguła

Institution: Poznań University of Technology

Language: English

Topic: Assistive Technology in Communication and Mobility

Subfield: Occupational Therapy

Field: Health Professions

Domain: Health Sciences

SDGs: Industry, innovation and infrastructure, Affordable and clean energy

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,728