Weekly Update: April 20-April 27

Goals:
1. Analyzing the dimensions of the wheelchair.
2. Research chain and sprocket standard industry dimensions
3. Research lever arms and attachments for the mechanism

Goals Met:
1.

2. When researching chain and sprocket driven systems, it was found that a vertical drive system is not ideal as it requires additional maintenance due to wear and the resulting lack of tension. It is best if the system is slightly off vertical to reduce the amount of adjustment necessary later during usage. ANSI sprocket standards were found and a potential supplier of sprocket and chain systems (Martin Sprocket & Gears, Inc).
3. Attachments for the mechanism will need to be determined after wheelchair choice has been made to understand the ideal mechanism setup. Lever arms will need to be determined after wheelchair choice as well to determine if bent lever arms or straight lever arms will be ideal for operation and user comfort.

New Goals for April 27- May 3:
1. Explore potential wheelchair donations from the Long Beach Veteran's Administration Hospital and other local hospitals
2. Determine approximate gear ratio, gear separation, and lever arm length based upon wheelchair dimensions


References Used:
1. Sprocket and Chain Design Tips
2. Sprocket and Chain Nomenclature and Standards