Adaptive Recumbent Tricycle
Problem statement
Oftentimes, people with impaired mobility, such as quadriplegics are forgotten regarding the conversation of mobility. In a study by Wheels for Well Being [1], 15 percent of people with disabilities cycle, compared with 18 percent of the general population. Moreover, two-thirds of cyclists with disabilities find cycling easier than walking.This study shows that cycles, more specifically handcycles, open the opportunity for disabled people to join the biking community. Unfortunately for our client, Jake Anderson a C4/C5 quadriplegic, the common handcycle is still an obstacle for him to navigate. Jake is unable to apply enough force to or grip the hand pedals and is also unable to steer the bike due to having limited mobility of the arms and fingers. This obstacle presents the need for an adaptive recumbent tricycle that Jake and many others affected by impaired mobility can use for leisure, sports, and mobility, thus benefiting both their physical and mental health. The current version of Jake’s adaptive recumbent tricycle allows Jake to help pedal the bike while strapped into the pedals and seat alongside a partner who steers. The current version of the adaptive bike fails to allow Jake to accomplish his dreams of independently riding his bike due to the need of having a captain along for the ride. In addition, there are some durability issues such as electrical component waterproofing and security during transportation needed. To give Jake more autonomy while riding his bike, a power assisted bike with accessible steering for Jake will be developed. By designing such a bike, the continuation of this project will aide Jake in his journey to independently complete the Chicago Half Marathon.
Team members
Benjamin Miller – leader
Amanda Kemper – communicator
Michael Dickson – accountant
Moaz Bashammakh – admin
Client
Kristofer Dressler, UW-Madison