Page 19 - Mainstreamer e-Magazine Volume 1, Issue 3 - August 2023
P. 19
IMPROVING QUALITY OF LIFE
Revolutionising Mobility: The Plug & Go Wheelchair
Ainul Asyraf
Lokman
Introduction otherwise impede their mobility. Whether
n an era where technology continues to reshape navigating rough terrains or ascending steep
the world, innovations that improve the quality inclines, individuals can experience seamless
Iof life for individuals with disabilities have movement, eliminating the physical strain and
become paramount. Among these breakthroughs fatigue associated with traditional wheelchairs.
is the Plug & Go Wheelchair, an ingenious
creation introduced by the Faculty of Engineering, Merging Functionality with Convenience: Exploring the
Thammasat University, Thailand. This cutting-edge Design
innovation enables individuals with disabilities At the heart of the Plug & Go Wheelchair is an
and senior citizens to navigate the world easily innovative motorised wheel system that seamlessly
and conveniently. By integrating additional attaches to the aluminium beam beneath the
motorised wheels, this wheelchair revolutionises wheelchair. This integration enables users to
mobility, allowing users to overcome various activate the additional wheels with a simple press
terrains and experience freedom of movement. of the start button and a twist of the accelerator.
In this article, we will delve deeper into the The motorised wheels boast an impressive speed
remarkable features and benefits of the Plug & capability of up to 23 km/h, allowing individuals to
Go Wheelchair, providing further explanation traverse diverse terrains easily and confidently.
and real-life examples of its impact on the lives
of those it serves. Additionally, we will highlight The Plug & Go Wheelchair design incorporates
the recognition and accolades this innovation has three essential elements. The horizontal aluminium
garnered, solidifying its status as a game-changer beam serves as the foundation, facilitating the
in the field of assistive technology. installation of the wheelchair and its connection
to the motorised wheel. By employing a vertical
aluminium beam, users can easily assemble and
Assistive Technology: Empowering Individuals with disassemble the wheelchair within seconds,
Mobility Challenges promoting convenience and portability. Finally, a
The Plug & Go Wheelchair represents a user-friendly control panel with intuitive direction
significant advancement in assistive technology. controls ensures seamless manoeuvrability.
While traditional wheelchairs have provided Numeric indicators on the panel, such as ‘0’ for a
mobility for individuals with disabilities, they often stationary position, ‘1’ for forward movement, and
faced limitations that hindered users from fully ‘2’ for backward motion, provide clear guidance
embracing their potential for independence and for users.
convenience. However, the Plug & Go Wheelchair
addresses these challenges head-on, offering a Innovation through Design and Accessibility:
comprehensive solution that caters to the diverse Enhancing User Experience
needs of disabled individuals and senior citizens. The Plug & Go Wheelchair design not only
With the integration of additional motorised prioritises functionality but also emphasises
wheels, the Plug & Go Wheelchair empowers accessibility and user experience. By opting
users to overcome various obstacles that would for lightweight aluminium instead of iron in
Vol. 01, Issue 3 | August 2022 18
