The document summarizes the design and fabrication of a mobility device for a 3-year-old boy with cerebral palsy. Key points:
- Parts from a Jazzy Elite ES power wheelchair were reused, including the battery holders and motor mount. Square steel tubes replaced the round tubes for easier welding.
- A car seat was mounted to the frame and bumper connections were welded to securely hold the child.
- The device was designed to give the child control over his own movement indoors and outdoors, as his cerebral palsy makes gross motor skills difficult. It was customized with his needs and specifications in mind.
Ride the Storm: Navigating Through Unstable Periods / Katerina Rudko (Belka G...
Poster (2)
1. Play and Mobility Device
Fabrication
A Jazzy Elite ES Chassis was deconstructed for its
valuable parts, like the battery holders and
motor mount. The round steel tubes were
replaced with square steel tubes and the battery
holder was repurposed for a horizontal
orientation.
The car seat mount and bumper connections
were welded.
The rolled steel bumper was bolted to the frame
and painted.
Flexco provided access to tools and professionals
in manufacturing.
Acknowledgement:
Dr. John Farris, Dr. Lisa Kenyon, Dr. Brent Nowak, Dr. Wendy Reffeor, and Flexco Inc.
Background
Children with impaired mobility may
have trouble moving around normal
spaces. This device is being designed to
best fit Lucas, a 3 year old boy with
cerebral palsy. This condition makes it
difficult for him to control his gross
motor skills. Our device will give him the
opportunity to be in control of his
movement.
Alyssa Schaefbauer, Rakibul Hasan, Derek Wright, Michael Kalsbeek, Rodrigo Barriuso
EGR 610: Engineering Design
Purpose
Design and build a child’s mobility device for indoor
and outdoor use.
Requirements and Specifications
Design
A mid-wheel drive device was designed as a
modification of a Jazzy Elite ES power wheel chair
base. The round tubes were replaced with square
tubes for better weldments. The battery holders
were changed from vertical battery placement to
horizontal to save space. Extra supports were
added to the frame to securely mount the child
seat. Casters and a suspension system were
designed for better maneuverability. A bumper
guard was designed for slight impact absorption
and slipping against walls.