Upper Darby High School InvenTeam

A total of 72 dual-layer polyurethane rollers – set on fins at 45-degree angles – circumscribe each stainless-steel hub that comprises the omni-directional wheelchair. A three-access joint stick coupled with encoders mounted on each drive shaft allow infinite direction, while ensuring precise control of speed and direction of each wheel. The powered chair also has the ability to raise and lower its height, tilt the seat, and raise and lower the footrest. Demonstrated at the Odyssey, the InvenTeam’s omni-directional wheelchair illustrated full maneuverability through translational, lateral and rotational movements including moving in diagonals at any angle and tracing an arch. There is potential to further develop the prototype in collaboration with the company Airtrax, which provided additional support for the InvenTeam.