車いす利用者が単独利用可能な段差移動補助機

抄録

We propose a pair of step-climbing units for manual wheelchair users who have no disabled upper limbs and hopes independent life without caregivers. The unit is a rectangle shape, which comprises a DC motor and a crawler belt. These devices are used combining with a pair of mobile ramps. Each unit moves on each ramp producing propelling force to rear wheels of a wheelchair from both sides. Some of wheelchair users go to work by car. It is important to load the units and the ramps into the car easily. We also make a pair of light and compact prototype ramps using GFRP and aluminum pipes. We discuss the control of the units through wireless communication when descending. Outdoor experimental results when climbing up and down two steps, which height was 19 cm each, confirmed effectiveness of the design.