3-Wheeler For Disabilied Designed By Collage Students
Final-year students of Mechatronics Engineering of Sri Krishna College of Engineering and Technology with the joystick-operated three-wheeled automobile designed by them in Coimbatore. Three students from Sri Krishna College of Engineering and Technology were particular that their final year project in college should serve a greater cause than just academic distinction.
M.Krishna Prabhu, M.Karthikeyan and M.Karthik of Mechatronics Engineering have designed a vehicle that can be operated by a person with physical disability.
The only vehicles available for people with physical disabilities in the market today are normal two wheelers attached with two extra wheels on the sides. These vehicles demand the usage of both hands to control the direction. But, the joystick-operated three-wheeled automobile, designed by these students, can be operated with one hand.
“The disabled are a neglected community. And for those with orthopaedic disabilities, mobility is the greatest problem. This vehicle is designed to make life easier for them,” says Karthik. It is a commercial two-wheeler remodelled into a mini-autorikshaw with a seating capacity of three including the driver. The extension for the passengers at the back is made using steel rods and beams, rexin cover and plywood seats. A pair of additional shock absorbers has been installed at the rear end, which will take care of the additional load and ensure a safe journey.
The driver controls the vehicle using the main switch board, which has the joystick. The handle controls acceleration, steering control, and braking. The control board also has switches for self-starting, horn, head lamp and indicators. “Any commercial 100 cc two-wheeler can be remodelled at not more than Rs.15,000,” says Karthikeyan. “We are going to continue working on this model and find out ways to improve it,” he adds.
They are also planning to meet manufacturers from the automotive sector to urge them to consider products such as this. “The automobile segment does not see much scope in this product. Through this, we can at least create awareness on the need for products such as this,” the students say.
