Redesign of the double hand rim modification of the "Whirlwind" Wheelchair for manufacture in developing nations

Abstract

In this thesis, I investigate possible improvements to the design of a wheelchair for manufacture in a developing nation, specifically one designed for use by persons with hemiplegia. Ralf Hotchkiss's "Whirlwind" Wheelchair is currently manufactured with local materials in many developing nations. It provides both an affordable source of quality wheelchairs for the populace as well as a source of employment. J.A. van Alphen and D.R. Arbib made modifications to the original Wheelchair design so that it would be usable by hemiplegics. However, on manufacture in Duranguito, Mexico, the chair was deemed unusable due to certain flaws. After analyzing the design of the chair, potential solutions for the two most critical problems are suggested, taking care to avoid undue increases in cost or complexity of manufacture.