Math Clinic -- Fall 2001, Problem Description
Bio-Medical Modeling of a Wheelchair Seating System
Persons who use wheelchairs experience stresses
on their body that are unique to their situation. For
example, sitting for long periods of time may cause a breakdown of skin
and tissues of the buttocks, leading to lesions and sores. When this
occurs, it is often necessary for the individual to move from a hand-propelled
wheelchair to an electric wheelchair which increases the financial cost
and significantly decreases the mobility of the person. In this clinic,
we will develop mathematical models of wheelchair seating systems and buttocks
in order to better understand the interaction between the two in both static
and dynamic environments. This research will ultimately lead to improved
wheelchair designs that will improve the quality of life for persons using
wheelchairs.
Sponsored by: Dr. Ron Rorrer, Dept. of Mechanical Engineering,
University of Colorado at Denver