<aside> ❓ For many, the ability to move about freely—without the aid of another—is one that is often taken for granted, but for some, its absence affects every aspect of life. Those who are reliant on others for quotidian travel often face mental health struggles due to their lack of independence; therefore, having access to mobility aids such as wheelchairs is essential. However, for people whose disability affects most of their body, such as multiple sclerosis in the case of our patient Nadina Gregory, traditional mobility aids are unable to fulfill their needs.
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<aside> 💡 The WheelMobile, presented by Roam, is a modified manual wheelchair created specifically for Nadina Gregory's needs and mobility concerns. The device is versatile, emphasizing stability, independence, and freedom.
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<aside> 💡 Nadina can operate this specialized wheelchair by driving the original push rims or solely the primary and secondary push rims located on the left side of the WheelMobile. The free-rotating left wheel allows independent movement, while the right wheel is affixed to its corresponding push rims found on both the left and right sides, through an axel connector.
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<aside> 💡 The distance between these two push rims is within an appropriate range to ensure ease of use. This mechanism allows Nadina to use both wheels with her dominant hand, minimizing the need for her right hand when travelling and thus significantly reducing the associated discomfort.
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<aside> 💡 Nevertheless, WheelMobile still provides the option to use the original push rims in case of emergency or muscle fatigue on Nadina’s good side.
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The wheelchair mechanism. a smaller, secondary push rim (grey) is added to one side which connects to the central axle.
<aside> 💡 The ergonomic primary push rims on the WheelMobile have a thick, rectangular ridge texturing on the top surface. The secondary push rim similarly has texturing located on its outer sides, facilitating her palm and fingers support and interface. This unique feature with increased grip and control is essential for Nadina's ability to use a wheelchair effectively. We have designed several versions of the push rim texture and realize the second one in the above feature would be the most ergonomic and safe design.
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In using the WheelMobile, Nadina will be capable of travelling from one point to the next with little exhaustion, stops, and discomfort. The WheelMobile aims to restore Nadina Gregory's independence to provide her ultimate control over her autonomy and mobility.
