FIRST HAND MECHANISM RESEARCH

When considering all of our initial ideas, each one involves some kind of securing mechanism for the wheelchair and/or a turntable/ swivel base. These features will allow for easier access and a more user friendly system to get the child into the vehicle with his/her wheelchair. 

With a limited knowledge and understanding of how these mechanisms will work, we decided to go out and look at existing products with features similar to those that we want to integrate into our design. 

We decided to take a look at the swivel systems that a lot of modern car seats now have, that aid the parent/user to easily access their child and strap them into the seat without having to twist or bend while lifting.

Small pull levers on the side of the seat, release the back of the seat from the base, this is indicated by the green central switch on the base.

These two photos show where the seat is secured to the back of the base. This mechanism prevents the seat from rotating freely.

We also had a look at locking systems where the carrier/seat could be easily snapped into place with 4 simple latches in one motion.

This is the seat/carrier with all 3 securing mechanisms in correct position.

The seat/carrier is secured into the base via these 4 lock points. A green light shows on interface if correct, a red light if adjustments are needed.

A button/ slide lock system is used to securely attach and release the rear restraints, holding the base steady within the vehicle. 

Interface indicates which restraints are correctly in place, using green and red lights.

Large grey pull button releases the seat/carrier from the base.

Closer look at the 4 point locking system to secure seat/carrier to the base.
Right image shows the floor restraint, holding the base and seat in the correct, safe position within the vehicle. It has adjustable leg, so can be adapted to most vehicles.

Video showing the ease of use- releasing the 4 point restraints on the base, with one button.