CSM -- Final Prototype and Future Work

Images and a video of the final presented prototype are shown above. The prototype illustrates a steady full range of motion by the curb scaling mechanism that successfully elevates the model wheelchair above and onto a target curb height of 1.5 inches. 

The current prototype provides a working visual aid of the project concept and its functionality. However, a few improvements are required to achieve a more complete and working mechanism. Future work and goals for this project include: 

• Optimizing the weight of the mechanism while maintaining its strength
  • To make the mechanism considered for practical use, it would have to be designed with lightweight optimization in mind. Since our mechanism was designed around simplicity and affordability, no complex or expensive components were incorporated. The downside is that the user would be required to provide the power to drive this mechanism when faced with a curve. This means the user would be responsible for lifting his own weight, the weight of the wheelchair and the weight of the mechanism. Mechanical advantage and weight optimization are key to accomplish a mechanism that can be considered for practical use. 
• Implementing an automatic engaging mechanism
  • To allow the mechanism to only engage when confronted with a curb, an engaging mechanism would have to be added to the prototype. To free the user from the additional burden of operating such mechanism, mechanical automation would be required. Current ideas include pedals attached to the back of the wheelchair that would make contact with the curb first and engage the curb scaling mechanism.  
• Incorporating all the mechanisms and creating a full scale model out of the appropriate materials