Problem being addressed
Standard 4-wheel wheelchairs are effective for flat surfaces and can be manufactured inexpensively, but are not ideal for rural or rough terrain and are difficult to maneuver.
Detailed description of the solution
The Motivation Rough Terrain Wheelchair is a 3-wheel base chair, with two large wheels in the back, and one large rubber castor wheel in front. The frame is built mostly of steel with aluminum components. The seat cushion has a water-resistant cover and is contoured for pressure-reduction. It can be cut to most aptly fit the individual user.
Relevance to developing country settings
This device has been designed specifically for use in rural and low-resource settings. It has been clinically tested and locally produced in Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Cambodia and Afghanistan. Graduates of the Wheelchair Technologists Training Course at TATCOT in Tanzania are trained to produce this wheelchair and go on to manufacture them in Africa.
Manufacturing
- Manufacturer: Motivation UK
- Manufacturer location: Backwell, Bristol BS48 4AQ, United Kingdom
Funding Source
Motivation is supported by charitable donations and community-level fundraising, as well as corporate partnerships.
References
Internally generated reports
Motivation. (2011, July 17). Product Summary. Link available here.
Externally generated reports
Constantine D, Sheldon, S. (Ed.) & Jacobs, N (Ed). (2006, November 6-11). Specific designs: Motivation. In Report of a Consensus Conference on Wheelchairs for Developing Countries (pp. 160-162). PDF available here.