Taking a Stand for Better Mobility

Wheelchairs have been around for a long time — and I do mean a very long time. Early versions of the wheelchair date back at least to the civilizations of ancient Greece. Of course there have been a number of advances made since those early days, but the basic technology is essentially the same — a chair with wheels. After a couple thousand years, you might think it is about time for a major upgrade, wouldn’t you?

The wheelchair has endured for so long because it is so useful to those that need it, but that does not mean it is perfect. Going up stairs or over rough, uneven ground, for instance, is impossible without additional accommodations. Maybe with some modern technology we can overcome these limitations to give wheelchair users greater mobility? A team of researchers at Chulalongkorn University believe that the time is ripe to do exactly that. Toward that goal, they have developed what they call the Exoskeleton Wheelchair, which transforms between a wheelchair and a walking exoskeleton.

The Exoskeleton Wheelchair is built with a hybrid design, combining the functions of a wheelchair and a wearable exoskeleton. When in wheelchair mode, it operates like a standard electric wheelchair. However, when needed, the user can activate the exoskeleton mode, which engages motorized joints at the hips and knees, allowing them to stand up and walk with mechanical assistance. This transformation makes it possible to navigate obstacles that would otherwise be impossible with a traditional wheelchair, such as stairs, curbs, and uneven terrain.

The frame is constructed using lightweight yet strong carbon fiber, which ensures durability while keeping the overall weight of the system manageable. Many of its components are fabricated using 3D printing and CNC machining, allowing for precise customization and rapid prototyping.

Motion control is divided into two main parts: wheel mobility and joint movement. The front wheels are programmed to adjust their speeds for smooth navigation, while the robotic exoskeleton employs motors to control the knee and hip joints. The ankle joints remain free-moving to allow for a natural walking motion. The system is designed with kinematic compatibility, meaning that it closely mimics the movement of human joints to ensure comfort and efficiency.

The most immediate benefit of the Exoskeleton Wheelchair is increased mobility and independence for individuals with mobility impairments. Traditional wheelchairs are often limiting, requiring ramps, lifts, or assistance from others in order to navigate certain environments. The ability to stand and walk, even with robotic assistance, provides users with a greater sense of autonomy.

This technology also offers significant health benefits. Prolonged sitting in a wheelchair can lead to secondary health issues such as muscle atrophy, poor circulation, and pressure sores. By allowing users to stand and move, the Exoskeleton Wheelchair can help reduce these risks and improve overall well-being.

As the world shifts toward an older population, the demand for assistive mobility solutions will only grow. The Exoskeleton Wheelchair may prove to be an important step toward redefining mobility for these individuals, as well as those with disabilities, making independence and accessibility more achievable than ever before.