Design and Development of an All-Terrain Electric Wheelchair Prototype for Rural Areas

Abstract

This research aims to design and develop an all-terrain electric wheelchair prototype specifically tailored for rural areas in Thailand. Conventional wheelchairs often lack the efficiency required to navigate the challenging environmental conditions of these regions, such as rugged terrains, laterite roads, speed bumps, and steep inclines. To address these limitations, this study focuses on innovating an electric-powered prototype integrated with a robust suspension system. The vehicle is driven by low-speed electric motors powered by a battery system and is designed to comply with the Ministerial Regulation on Facilities in Buildings for Persons with Disabilities and the Elderly (No. 2) B.E. 2564. The methodology follows the engineering design process, consisting of: (1) an analysis of user needs and problems within rural contexts; (2) conceptual design and modeling using Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software; and (3) prototype fabrication followed by real-world field testing for performance optimization. The design prioritizes sustainability, emphasizing durability, cost-effectiveness, and ease of maintenance by local community technicians. The resulting prototype measures 70 cm in width, 106 cm in length, and 84 cm in height, with a total weight of 38.6 kg. It features a two-wheel front-drive system powered by 24V, 250W DC geared motors, which offer three adjustable speed levels and a baseline starting speed of 75 RPM, powered by a 24V 8Ah battery. The system includes a shock-absorption mechanism and two rear wheels for stability and directional control, operated via a single-handed joystick. Experimental results, involving a test subject weighing 80 kg, demonstrated a travel range of 3 kilometers per full charge on rural terrains, verified by Global Positioning System (GPS). The prototype successfully ascended 15-degree slopes and navigated through 90 cm wide right-angle corridors. Furthermore, its turning radius outperformed the minimum standards mandated by the 2021 Ministerial Regulation. This all-terrain electric wheelchair effectively navigates rough, laterite roads, and sandy paths, significantly enhancing the mobility and social participation of individuals with lower-limb disabilities in rural Thailand.