DESIGN, KINEMATIC AND STRUCTURAL ANALYSIS OF A WHEELCHAIR TRANSMISSION

In this paper is presented the design, kinematics and structural analysis of a mechanical transmission intended to wheelchairs for disabled people. The kinematics of proposed transmission is analyzed in order to achieve a proper synthesis of gears. A 3D model of the transmission and wheelchair are designed in Solid Works, and they will be used for the dynamic simulation of the wheelchair robotic system in Adams software, and structural analysis in Ansys. The wheelchair motion simulation is made in Adams in two cases: traction motion and steering motion active. Based on Adams dynamic analysis is performed a structural analysis of designed worm and bevel gears in order to establish maximum value of contact pressure. The obtained results from Adams simulation and structural analysis are presented. Obtained results and conclusions demonstrate the efficiency of wheelchair proposed transmission solution.