Energy Absorption Study

Why do we care about energy Absorption of wheelchairs

In this case, we are interested in different components' ability to affect the vibration experienced in a wheelchair frame. We tested on four wheels, one caster, two chairs, and one caster fork. All of these components are advertised to absorb vibration from the ground to the human body.

Not only are we interested in how well each component absorbs vibration, but also propulsion cost. A component might be good at absorbing vibration, but it may also require significantly higher energy costs. In this case, people will need to rethink its effectiveness.

Setting up the study

We tested on four surfaces, tile, brick, sidewalk, and grate. The first three surfaces are chosen because they are most commonly used by wheelchair users. The grates are less common but are supposed to provide interesting higher vibrations.

To experiment, we equipped four accelerometers on the system. We clamped one accelerometer above the caster, and another on the frame under the seat. To understand the vibration felt by the human body, two more accelerometers are implemented on the seat cushion and inside the torso of the AMPS.

Except for the accelerometer above the caster fork, the other three are at the center of the whole system.

What is coming up next?

We have collected all the data and analysed them. The task left is to write a paper about it in this semester.