Industrial - Bachelors

SCOOT: Open Source Power Assist

SCOOT is an open-source power assist system for manual wheelchairs, crafted to improve accessibility and safety. Designed with off-the-shelf electric scooter components and innovative features, SCOOT aims to make power assist more affordable and available, empowering wheelchair users with a practical, easy-to-use mobility solution.

Edward (Teddy) Meredith

Power assist is a device that attaches to a standard manual wheelchair and helps to push the user around. It adds an amount of independence to the user as it can significantly increase the user’s ability by increasing the range and capability of the user. A steep hill or long ride that was impossible to complete before can now be done with minimal effort. For some users, power assist can mean the difference between maintaining their independence and relying on others to complete basic daily tasks.

silhouettes of the current systems on the market

The Problem

While power assist systems offer significant benefits, current models on the market come with notable downsides. These relatively simple devices are prohibitively expensive, typically ranging from $10,000 to $15,000. One major reason for this high cost is the lack of competition, allowing companies to charge exorbitant prices, especially since programs like the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) often cover the expense. This funding structure incentivizes companies to keep prices high, rather than making them affordable for individual users. Beyond the initial purchase price, ongoing costs can also be high. Replacement parts, such as batteries, are not only hard to find but also extremely costly, often reaching into the thousands, adding to the financial burden for wheelchair users.

research

Research has shown that many wheelchair users are interested in using power assist systems, with cost being the most common barrier to access. Users who currently own power assist systems often report issues such as high costs for replacement parts, limited serviceability, and occasional safety concerns. Discussions with wheelchair service centers have revealed essential features that power assist systems should incorporate, as well as aspects to avoid, ensuring compatibility and safety for users. This information underscores the need for an affordable, user-friendly power assist solution that emphasizes safety and ease of maintenance. These insights are guiding the development of a more accessible and reliable power assist system that effectively addresses the real concerns of wheelchair users.

Name
Research Report
File Type
application
File Size
860 KB
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Ryobi battery adapter

Ideation

To make power assist systems more affordable and easier to maintain, I focused on one of the main issues with current models: batteries. Most existing systems rely on specialized batteries that can cost around $2,000 to replace, which is a significant expense for users. Exploring alternatives, I found that power tool batteries offer similar power capacities at a fraction of the cost. This discovery opened up the possibility of using readily available, cost-effective power tool batteries to power a new system. By integrating these widely accessible batteries, it becomes possible to create a power assist solution that is not only more affordable upfront but also reduces long-term maintenance costs, making it a more practical choice for wheelchair users.

Prototyping played a crucial role in this project, involving numerous iterations to refine the product’s size, programming, and functionality. Through repeated testing and adjustments, essential dimensions and features were carefully developed, ensuring the final model was both well-designed and fully functional. Each prototype iteration provided valuable insights that informed design improvements and led to a highly resolved final concept. This hands-on approach allowed for fine-tuning of critical aspects, enhancing both usability and performance. Ultimately, the iterative prototyping process was instrumental in achieving a polished, reliable final product that meets user needs effectively.

Name
Design Development Record
File Type
application
File Size
10 MB
Download File

“A new battery can cost over $2000”

-power assist user

Key Features

SCOOT is designed with user-friendliness and safety in mind, allowing wheelchair users to attach and detach the system while remaining seated. The unit is crafted to avoid interfering with the user’s everyday movements, providing seamless support without hindrance. For added safety, a “safe stop” feature automatically cuts power if the user needs to stop suddenly, offering peace of mind in unpredictable situations. Additionally, the battery system is built for convenience, enabling quick swaps with fresh batteries to keep the device operational without delays. SCOOT’s thoughtful design combines ease of use, safety, and flexibility, making it a practical, accessible power assist solution for wheelchair users looking to maintain independence and mobility.

Design For repair

SCOOT is built to support the right-to-repair and design-for-repair movements, prioritizing user empowerment and accessibility. Constructed with common, off-the-shelf electric scooter components, SCOOT allows users or local repair shops to easily handle maintenance and repairs. This accessibility reduces the need for specialized parts and costly service interventions. By using standard power tool batteries, SCOOT eliminates downtime due to battery replacement delays, which often occur when waiting for specialized batteries to ship from overseas. Designed for durability and longevity, SCOOT aims to remain fully operational and easy to service over time, offering wheelchair users a reliable power assist system that promotes independence, reduces long-term costs, and champions sustainable design principles.

Edward (Teddy) Meredith

Teddy is an aspiring industrial designer from the USA having transitioned from skilled trades to pursue his passion. His hands-on expertise as a tradesman now fuels his creative process, helping him bring design projects to life with practical, real-world insight.