Considerations regarding the concept of cost-effective power-assist wheelchair subsystems

Abstract The present paper deals with the concept of a cost-effective power-assistant wheelchair. An analysis of the market situation and recent technical achievements is done at the beginning. On its basis, a set of solutions suitable for the development of such wheelchairs has been composed. It is shown that the key features of the considered concept are: segmented electrical motor and drive, sectioned battery pack, modular charger and an ANN matrix that provides easy and intuitive interfacing of sensor networks, pseudo-bionic feedbacks and the decision-making unit. Within the scope of the paper, a 3D model has been developed and 3D modelling has been conducted. As a result, certain drawbacks in the design and placement of elements have been found and a modification of the concept has been proposed