Desenvolvimento de uma cadeira de rodas motorizada de baixo custo para crianças de até 9 anos

Abstract

The development of assistive technologies (AT) the can help children with motor disabilities, who don't have access to better technologies, becomes necessary as a way of social inclusion in the market. In addition, the assistive resource tends to provide autonomy for the child's development, which is related to the ability to do their own actions, in order to attend their own needs and increase functionality. The elaboration of a low-cost motorized wheelchair provides accessibility to this kind of equipment for low-income population. This product can make a difference in children's daily lives, because it allows them to improve their autonomy and their mobility, increasing their functionality and social interaction. With easily findable resources by the population, the motorized wheelchair for children was developed intending to attend to children until 9 years old, being able to change its size. With the project concept, it is presented the technical features of the mechanical system, electronic system and programming, describing the implemented solutions into the prototype development. Tests proved the effectiveness of these three areas and its autonomy, moving continuously for an hour and a half in an environment of easy locomotion.