Development of a novel front wheel attachment for manual wheelchairs to improve outdoor mobility

Manual wheelchairs promote a level of independence and autonomy. However, due to the short wheelbase and small front casters, wheelchairs perform poorly when used on grass, sand, and uneven/rough surfaces like trails and damaged paved surfaces. At a minimum, these surfaces provide a rough ride, at worst they may cause tips, falls and injuries. Current front wheel attachment products exist that use a relatively large single front wheel to lift the casters off the ground, providing a longer wheelbase. Generally, these products work very well to improve outdoor wheeling. However, these solutions have some drawbacks, including: a cumbersome attachment process and an increased wheelchair footprint. The novel SWIVL™ provides similar outdoor wheeling experiences, but addresses these drawbacks with a retractable stowage capability that easily transitions a manual wheelchair between outdoor and indoor wheeling configurations.
MethodsA three-phase development process was followed within a commercialisation incubator program which provided the opportunity for intensive engagement with various stakeholders.
ResultsThe first two phases focused on the creation of proof-of-concept prototypes. Phase three was performed under standardised design controls. This iterative process was enhanced by weekly meetings with the incubator staff and stakeholders, and included a formal focus group.
ConclusionsGuidance and data collected throughout this process was thoughtful, insightful and facilitated the design of the SWIVL™ device towards a market ready product.

Improved outdoor mobility: The SWIVL™ front wheel attachment lifts casters and lengthens the wheelbase of manual wheelchairs which reduces rolling resistance and tip risk on rough terrain, grass, sand, and snow to enable safer, more efficient outdoor wheeling.
Seamless indoor–outdoor wheeling transitions: Its retractable stowage design allows quick switching between indoor and outdoor modes without removing the device, reducing equipment burden and promoting greater usage in every day life.
Enhanced participation and independence: By mitigating barriers in outdoor environments, SWIVL™ has the potential to expand community participation opportunities for manual wheelchair users, including expanded recreational activities and outdoor wheeling.

Improved outdoor mobility: The SWIVL™ front wheel attachment lifts casters and lengthens the wheelbase of manual wheelchairs which reduces rolling resistance and tip risk on rough terrain, grass, sand, and snow to enable safer, more efficient outdoor wheeling.
Seamless indoor–outdoor wheeling transitions: Its retractable stowage design allows quick switching between indoor and outdoor modes without removing the device, reducing equipment burden and promoting greater usage in every day life.
Enhanced participation and independence: By mitigating barriers in outdoor environments, SWIVL™ has the potential to expand community participation opportunities for manual wheelchair users, including expanded recreational activities and outdoor wheeling.