Passing over several steps using a pair of step-climbing units for a manual wheelchair user

Abstract

We have developed a pair of step-climbing units that can be installed in a standard manual wheelchair. We aim to enable manual wheelchair users to establish an independent life that they can lead without assistance. This mechanism is simpler because it uses the capabilities of the wheelchair user. Each unit comprises two actuators and has two degrees of freedom: telescopic motion and rotational motion. We primarily discuss a strategy that enables wheelchair users to climb stairs comprising multiple steps. We additionally use a pair of portable slopes to achieve this task. Results of experiments where users traveled on a pair of slopes that covered a height of 30 cm over two steps confirm the effectiveness of the design.