The Wheelchair Umbrella is a foldable canopy attachment designed to protect a wheelchair occupant from sunlight and rain during outdoor activities. It mounts to the back of the wheelchair using a pipe-tie attachment and can be opened or closed as needed, folding flat against the chair when not in use.
The frame is built from steel pipe (20 mm and 25 mm diameter) and 3 mm steel plate, shaped using a pipe bender, hole saw, electrical arc welding, cut-off saw, angle grinder, and bench drill. Two circular steel plates (92 mm and 68 mm diameter) are welded to the front and back frame sections to form the opening and closing mechanism. The canopy itself is made from waterproof, flexible fabric, cut to a template and sewn using a sewing machine, with magic tape (hook-and-loop fastener) used to secure the cover to the frame. Final dimensions are approximately 60 cm diameter, with frame measurements of 58 cm and 39 cm (length) and 52 cm and 46 cm (width).
Assembly takes approximately 15 minutes, joining the front and back frame with M6 bolts through M8 holes, then fitting and securing the fabric cover to the frame with magic tape. The unit disassembles in approximately 5 minutes by detaching the magic tape and removing the cover. In use, the umbrella is fixed to the wheelchair with two pipe ties and opened or closed as needed.
Field Ready develops manuals to support both the fabrication and safe use of its products. A maker manual provides step-by-step instructions for replicating the design, including materials, tools, and assembly guidance, so that makers in different locations can build the product accurately and consistently. A user manual, where applicable, explains how to properly set up, use, and maintain the product once it is built, helping ensure it performs safely and as intended for the end user. Together, these manuals make the design accessible to both fabricators and the people who ultimately rely on the product.
