Reaching behind to access belongings can be challenging for some wheelchair users. A device created by mechanical and electrical engineering technology students at Algonquin College allows wheelchair users to easily retrieve personal effects. The Wheelchair Backpack Transfer Device will debut as one of the submissions in next Friday’s virtual RE/ACTION Showcase, bringing together Algonquin College learners, educators and industry partners to exhibit innovative research projects.
Jackson Gougeon and his team – Musugiramanz Moise, Alexander McKenzie, Sebastian Menendez and Burke Walsh – created the device for their client Tetra Society of North America. Tetra is a not-for-profit organization that works with volunteers and students to design assistive devices for people living with disabilities.
“The main goal is to have a product for a wheelchair, powered or manual, for someone who can’t personally grasp a backpack from behind their chair, bring it forward and easily access anything in their backpack or bag,” said Gougeon.