FEATURE PEER-REVIEWED ARTICLE

• A STUDY ON ERGONOMIC EGG-SHAPED FOUR-BAR LINKAGE PROPULSION MECHANISM FOR MANUAL WHEELCHAIRS

  Attakorn Suwananthawong (Medical Engineering Program, Thammasat School of Engineering, Thammasat University, Pathumtani, 12120, THAILAND ),
  Dulyachot Cholaseuk (Department of Mechanical Engineering, Thammasat School of Engineering, Thammasat University, Pathumtani, 12120, THAILAND ).
  

  Disciplinary: Biomechanics/Biomedical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Medical Engineering Technology and Innovation.

  ➤ FullText

  DOI: 10.14456/ITJEMAST.2020.249

  Keywords: Kinematic synthesis; Elliptical drive; Isokinetic; EEF propulsion mechanism; Push-rim wheelchairs; Four-bar linkage mechanism.

  Abstract
  Most manual wheelchair users use conventional push-rim wheelchairs. Although manual push-rim wheelchairs help promotes a good lifestyle, the non-ergonomic, high muscular demand of non-continuous push motions can trigger severe upper extremity injuries. In this study, a new four-bar linkage propulsion mechanism is introduced. The mechanism was designed to provide continuous propulsion while allowing the wrist movement to follow the ergonomic egg-shaped path. A prototype was built and tested. User opinions indicated that they experienced a more comfortable ride than in the conventional push-rim wheelchair. Overall, the use of the four-bar linkage mechanism causes less strain to muscles and should reduce fatigue during prolonged usages.
  

  Paper ID: 11A13C

  Cite this article:

  Suwananthawong, A. and Cholaseuk, D. (2020). A STUDY ON ERGONOMIC EGG-SHAPED FOUR-BAR LINKAGE PROPULSION MECHANISM FOR MANUAL WHEELCHAIRS. International Transaction Journal of Engineering, Management, & Applied Sciences & Technologies, 11(13), 11A13C, 1-7.

  
  
  

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