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Key Benefits
The trend for persons with disabilities is to be more independent, mobile and participatory. However, the common mode of wheelchair propulsion has stayed the same for more than 100 years. The hand rim assembly drive system has been the standard, yet studies now show that this is an inherently inefficient transfer of energy, using weak muscle groups in an strenuous movement. More problematic, however, is the rotational stroke, which is the cause of many injuries to the hand, wrist, elbow and shoulders. Carpel tunnel syndrome and other hand/arm/shoulder injuries are common among manual wheelchair users. The HelixSphere drive system can greatly enhance user mobility, and reduce repetitive strain injuries. The mechanics and ergonomics provide for a natural, linear stroke. The operation of the HelixSphere drive system for wheelchairs incorporates the bio-mechanically efficient movement of a straight push and/or pull of the arms. There is the added benefit of being able to add multiple gearing to the final drive ratio with the addition of an in-line gearing system or multi-speed hub. Due to the nature of the HelixSphere drive system, a variety of wheel sizes can be introduced. This unique benefit allows for optimizing the wheel size to suite the chair, the environment and the user's desired range of mobility (from a sedentary person to one who is very active). This can be done without needing to factor in the diameter of the wheel, which is necessary when mounting a hand rim to a wheel. Variable wheel sizing opens up a whole new range of design options, from wheelchair entry and exit to a complete frame redesign. Other options, unrelated to the wheel size, include in-line compound helix drive shafts, braking systems, gearing shift handles and various clutching systems, all while adding minimal weight to a wheelchair. This all adds up to a more efficient drive system that allows the user to traverse greater distances and access more variable terrain. |
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For More Information Contact:
Copyright © 1998 - 2007 HelixSphere Technologies Inc.  |
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