Tripura Professors of ICFAI University develop low-cost solar-powered wheelchair

A first-of-its-kind solar-powered wheelchair has been developed in Tripura for the physically challenged and elderly.

The wheelchair was designed under the University’s Centre for Renewable Energy by Dr Shantanu Acharya, Assistant Professor of the Department of Electrical Engineering, and Dr Payal Deb, Assistant Professor of the Department of Mechanical Engineering.

This project was funded by the International Solar Innovation Council (INSIC) from Finland. The project aims to provide improved mobility and independence for individuals with physical challenges and the elderly.

The project involved collaboration with Dr. Payel Deb from the mechanical department, along with two others, Suman Das and Prashanth Debnath, who contributed their expertise as a lab technician and workshop supervisor, respectively.

Acharya said, ‘It was inspired to design this innovative wheelchair due to personal experiences with my father, who is a slipped disc patient, and my niece, who suffers from cerebral palsy. Both faced difficulties in maintaining balance and posture.”

With funding of Rs. 3.28 lakh from INSIC, the team worked diligently for a year to develop the present prototype, incorporating feedback from physically challenged individuals who tested an earlier version of the wheelchair.

“With the use of this affordable wheel chair, we can help them to go around on their own without any assistance. This is the prototype, and it costs only about Rs. 85,000. If we prepare and build it in bulk, however, the cost will drop by about Rs. 40,000”, Acharya added.

“It is run by solar panels since we are aware that generating electricity from fossil fuels produces a significant amount of greenhouse gases that have an adverse impact on the environment,” he further added.

The team made ingenious design choices, using lightweight stainless steel square bars and flexible solar panels, to reduce the weight significantly. The wheelchair also features an integrated automated speedometer, luminary, horn, LED lights, and indicators for enhanced functionality.

Payel Deb, has been involved in the wheelchair’s design and focus on simplicity to facilitate easy repairs, even in remote areas – a common complaint against existing motorized wheelchairs available in the market.

The successful testing of the solar-powered wheelchair was witnessed by officials from the Tripura Renewal Energy Development Agency (TREDA) and the Science and Technology Department of the state during an exhibition. The wheelchair received high praise for its efficiency.

Prof. Dr. Biplab Halder, Vice Chancellor of ICFAI University, Tripura, lauded the faculties’ innovative efforts, stressing the positive impact on students and their motivation towards further innovation—an essential aspect of any nation’s development.

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