612 Power Assist Mechanism without Running Resistance for One Hand Drive Wheelchair
Details
We have developed a one hand drive wheelchair with assist functions for running. In previous researches, an assist unit was proposed. However, because rubber rollers always grip tires, the old-model assist unit yields the running resistance, which cannot be ignored. In this paper, the new assist unit, which is operated by rink mechanism, is proposed. This assist unit is possible to contact rubber rollers with tires and to release rubber rollers from tires. Therefore, when none of assist functions is needed, rubber rollers leave from tires and no running resistance exists. On the other hand, rubber rollers grip tires, when assist functions are needed. Results of experiment show the advantage of newly proposed assist unit.
