Development and Performance Study of Electric Wheelchair for the Elderly

DOI: 10.14416/j.ind.tech.2024.12.008

Authors

  • Worapong Boonchouytan Department of Industrial Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Rajamangala University of Technology Srivijaya
  • Nutjired Kheowsakul Department of Electrical, Faculty of Industrial Education and Technology, Rajamangala University of Technology Srivijaya
  • Supawadee Makon Department of Computer Engineering, Rattaphum College, Rajamangala University of Technology Srivijaya
  • Chatree Homkhiew Department of Industrial Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Rajamangala University of Technology Srivijaya

Keywords:

Electric wheelchair, Elderly people, Performance, Application

Abstract

The objective of this research is to develop and study the performance of an electric wheelchair for the elderly, or for use in transporting patients or individuals with disabilities. The dimensions of the electric wheelchair for the elderly are as follows: a width of 690 millimeters, a length of 1,250 millimeters, and a height of 1,050 millimeters. In terms of power transmission, it uses a 250-watt, 24-volt DC motor with a maximum rotational speed of 120 rpm, driving the main caster wheels with a diameter of 18 inches. It is equipped with steering wheels with a diameter of 7 inches. For control, the wheelchair can be operated via an application or by joystick control, with 5 adjustable speed levels. The tests include determining the maximum speed relative to the test weight, the braking distance of the electric wheelchair for the elderly, and the performance of the electric wheelchair on inclined surfaces. The tests were conducted at 5 speed levels and 3 weight levels. The results showed that an increase in test weight and speed levels resulted in reduced battery life, and that the combined increase in speed and weight resulted in a longer braking distance. Furthermore, the average satisfaction score from the user evaluation of the electric wheelchair for the elderly was 4.36, indicating a high level of satisfaction.

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Published

2024-12-20

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Section

บทความวิจัย (Research article)