First Nigel compared the overall potential solutions for a device that would accomplish our goals. After considering many different design solutions, an exoskeleton, Stair climbing wheelchair and a stair climbing attached for wheelchairs where considered. Based on the research and the benefits of each design, the stair climbing wheelchair was proposed to the team. The team was fully on board and so system designs began.
Each department manager began on initial research for their respective system design. Avinash began on chassis & dynamics design, Arshak began on powertrain design with Nigel’s help, Abhi began on electrical design with Arshak’s help. Mo began on software and controls design with Abhi’s help.
Based on engineering judgement and decision matrix of the team, for chassis & dynamics a custom chassis with bike suspension and a mixture of friction and motor brakes was proposed to the team. For powertrain, an electric motor with chain drive, bike wheels and tank like treads were proposed to the team. For electrical and controls, a 24V battery (2 12V in series), joystick control and the need for a microcontroller and sensors was proposed to the team. For mechanisms the team worked together and proposed a dual tread and wheel stair climbing mechanism with built in self balancing with 2 electric actuators. The team supported all the proposed decision solutions and moved forward with this design.
To ensure that the project would stay on track, Nigel also created a quarterly timeline for September to December 2023 and January to April 2024. In addition, project leads were finalized as well as a detailed work breakdown structure to ensure smooth completion of the project.
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