About the Project

Problem Statement

Children with movement impairing disabilities develop a sense of learned helplessness and lack of motivation. Designing a reproducible and adaptable powered mobility device will provide children ages 8 and up with their first opportunity for self-motivated, independent mobility. A build manual will be written to instruct parents, clinicians, and other members in the community on how to build this device.

Needs and Requirements

Build Manual Components

Modified Ride-on Car

30 - 60 minute build time, $350 total cost

The modified ride-on car is powered by an easy-to-see and use audio jack push button. This design allows your child the chance to get out of their normal seating arrangement and drive on a variety of different terrains. The car has two forward speeds and can also go in reverse.

Prototypes

Scooter Attachment Device

1 hour 30 minutes - 2 hour build time, $315 total cost

The scooter attachment device brackets on to a manual wheelchair to convert it to a powered wheelchair. The wheelchair is then powered by an easy-to-see and use audio jack push button. This design eliminates the need for extra supports since there is no transfer out of the child's normal seating arrangements. The finished design has an extremely tight turning radius and can easily fit through doors.

CHILD MOBILITY CAPSTONE PROJECT

Northern Arizona University

EGR476C/486C Mechanical Engineering Capstone