Team 15

Instrumented Wheelchair Ergometer

Team Members:

Eddie Aparicio

Karson Pooler

Mohamed Sorkati

Team Mentors:

Benjamin Conner - University of Arizona College of Medicine

Dr. Pamela Rogers Bosche - Northern Arizona University

Dr. Sydney Shaefer - Arizona State University

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

Zoom Link:

https://asu.zoom.us/j/84629818790

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 work and energy generated during a workout. This new device will allow the small sect of the population that use wheelchairs in athletics to track their workouts, progress, and their efficiency. Our device will also allow any patient to train at their own pace with immediate statistical feedback on how efficiently they are using their wheelchair and suggestions on how to improve their efficiency. The design process used for our device is being followed closely and is carefully outlined in “Product Design and Development” Sixth Edition by Karl Ulrich and Steven Eppinger. Another document that is being relied upon heavily for best industry practices and correct design process is the “Quality System (QS) Regulation/Medical Device Good Manufacturing Practices” By The FDA. Along with the provided reference material and the FDA good practices, the team is continually researching technologies and patents that could have a connection to our device. The end product will be a comprehensive data acquisition and presentation system for wheelchair users, to train users to efficiently use their wheelchairs. This technology is possible because of two systems that currently exist: 1) The Invictus Active, a commercially available wheelchair trainer that only measures 4 basic metrics with little room for adjustments and 2) the Wheel Mill System, a top of the line, Paralympic level training system developed for clinical use.