JUAN CARLOS NOGUERA

Leveraged Freedom Chair

Conceptual design.  -  In no way affiliated with the MIT Mobility lab or GRIT

The Leveraged Freedom Chair (LFC) is an initiative by Amos Winter and the MIT Mobility lab, aiming to produce a highly durable, low-cost lever powered wheelchair for the developing world. 

They have created a simple solution, which can be seen at www.gogrit.org. The project here presented is a conceptual variation for a high-technology version of this model. 

Having the opportunity to view the prototype in development at the Transitions Foundation Wheelchair Workshop in Antigua Guatemala, Juan Carlos envisioned a carbon fibre, high technology version of the model, utilizing a planetary gear transmission system, and a fully suspended seat. 

The wheelchair utilizes lever power, and places the lever handles at an ideal angle for the ideal power transfer. The disc brake handles are placed within easy reach of the rider. The three-piece bucket seat is modular and allows for easy reconfiguration at the time of manufacture. 

The planetary gear system allows the rider access to both a high (1:1) gear, and a low (1:3) gear ratio by simply engaging the gear hub bearing. The single piece carbon fibre subframe has a sweeping shape that interconnects the front wheel and back wheels, and that serves as a footrest platform.