[Wheelchairs-Forsaken by research and development?]

Research and development in the area of wheelchair design has almost come to a standstill in the post-WW II period. The project outlined in this paper has considered technical-functional aspects, handling characteristics, recent ergonomic findings, as well as semantic functions, and translated these into exemplary solutions. The concept of an indoor wheelchair with a limited range of outdoor uses is determined by the unit construction principle (seating and frame). The chair has a firm upholstered seat with the backrest being adjustable to individual needs by means of a gas compression spring (working/resting positions). The seat folds and can be detached from the frame. The frame, too, is collapsible by means of a folding mechanism. Armrests are adjustable in height to individual needs. A special alternative has been developed for elderly persons where specific requirements and needs had to be accommodated.