Team 15

Instrumented Wheelchair Ergometer

Team Members:

Eddie Aparicio

Karson Pooler

Mohamed Sorkati

Team Mentors:

Dr. Benjamin Conner, MD - University of Arizona College of Medicine

Dr. Pamela Rogers-Bosche, PhD - Northern Arizona University

Dr. Sydney Schaefer, PhD - Arizona State University, SBHSE

YouTube Link:
View the video link below before joining the zoom meeting

Zoom Link:
https://asu.zoom.us/j/82979397310?pwd=TW1PQVhrRDVLZVo4R3pwY3pGUmNEQT09


Abstract

Currently wheelchair bound individuals do not have easily accessible equipment for exercise that allows them to analyze their workout properly. A wheelchair ergometer would allow a user to measure the speed, distance, and duration of their workout. For this reason, eRoll presents WHE.E.E.L, Effective, Efficient, Ethical. The WHE.E.E.L system will allow users to not only do just that, but it will also provide immediate efficiency analysis. Current good manufacturing processes (cGMP) were used for the manufacturing of this device as outlined by the FDA in their QSR. Along with the provided reference material and the FDA good practices, the team researched technologies and patents that could have a connection to our device. The team found a commercial ergometer that could be improved upon and a clinical ergometer that needed a smaller package and price tag. The Alpha prototype for our device proves the feasibility of the smaller package as well as lower price tag. With data from testing indicating that the device can improve the efficiency of wheelchair usage, this device would be classified as an assistive device aiding in the everyday wellbeing of the user. With further research and prototyping the team hopes to increase the accuracy of our efficiency metrics, add support for various wheelchair types (e.g., larger or racing), and create a new variable resistance braking system.