Proof of Concept
Initial Design - Sketches
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Below, you can see the proof of concept early design sketches of the Juria. Rudimentary electric bike parts are pictured as being used to convert the Wike into a powered electric adaptive stroller.
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Reinforced Rail Design Needed
We used 1” aluminum square tubing for the rails design that supports the canopy and chassis. During the third test drive on grass (a bumpy surface), both rails broke, but not at the welds, so it doesn’t seem to be a fabrication issue—it looks like they were just overstressed. Switching to 1.5” aluminum tubing would be ideal since it’s almost three times stronger. For now, we're sticking with the 1” tubing and adding gussets on both sides of each rail to reinforce it. The final design will use 1.5” tubing. Updated rail design - PDF and .dfx file PDF .dfx
About the Juria Project
Our focus is on creating an adaptive electric stroller that caters specifically to the needs of individuals with disabilities and allows them and their families to enjoy hiking trails, beaches, dirt roads, and forests just as we all do. This is not an electric wheelchair, an All-Terrain Trackchair, or a robot that requires extensive training and comes with a hefty price tag. The Juria is a stroller that fills a gap that's been overlooked in the adaptive equipment world. In the status quo, the market offers wheelchairs and robot-like vehicles, but they often miss the mark for many individuals with special needs. Some people require the comfort of a stroller-like configuration, complete with a canopy enclosure for protection from the elements. Others may have sensory issues and prefer the security of an enclosed space. And for those like my brother who can't sit upright for a long time as required in a traditional wheelchair, the options become even more limited. For the past 5 y...
Ju·ria ˈju̇rēə - The name
I am often asked about the meaning of “Juria” so here it is. The name Ju·ria, pronounced ˈju̇rēə, carries a deeply personal significance within our family. Ju·ria derived from the word "stroller." From the time my brother was a baby, he loved the outdoors and spending time in the woods on trails – especially in the comfort of his stroller. Hikes and long walks became his most cherished activity, it was a sensory and soothing experience that relaxed and calmed him. My brother has apraxia of speech (AOS), so communicating was always a challenge for him. AOS happens when the brain has trouble coordinating the oral movements of the mouth and face, which are needed to pronounce words. Many of my brother’s words are hard to understand. Nevertheless, from a young age, my brother persistently attempted to speak, verbalize, and connect with those around him. One day he started saying Juria. He wouldn’t stop and we eventually figured out that he was referring to his stroller and asking...
Juria CAD Model, Description of Parts, and Assembly Details
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This is one of the initial 3D renderings, showcasing the key components that make up the Juria. Each component serves a specific purpose, contributing to the final Juria design. The battery will be mounted in the center of the rig and will power both motors. Placing the battery in the center helps to distribute weight more evenly across the vehicle or device, improving balance and stability. In the Juria, which will prioritize safety and practicality, this can lead to better handling and reduced body roll during turns. A centrally mounted battery also lowers the center of gravity, improving overall vehicle dynamics, and making it more stable and safer. The vehicle's center is often the safest location in the event of a collision or damage from the underside. While traversing through rugged trail terrain, mounting the battery in the center protects it from damage, which is crucial since batteries can be hazardous if ruptured. The front wheel will be able to gyrate around itself...
Test Drive: Solid Performance with Key Improvements Needed
The Sandbags: 150lbs We tested the Juria by loading 150 lbs of sandbags into the seat to simulate a driver's weight. It handled the extra weight easily, with smooth steering and stable balance, even when the load shifted. This test was done to check its ability to handle real use and identify any design weaknesses. The Joystick The joystick controller which we mounted on top of the canopy, was awkward to use without a handle. We'll explore adding a handlebar and a better placement for the joystick. Promising Start with Room for Improvement The first drive of the Juria went smoothly, handling rough terrain well with extra weight. Stock Wike wheels and tires worked, but more rugged off-road tires would be better for the electric dual drive. The front swivel wheel lacks tread, so we'll find a better off-road option. This setup performs perfectly on paved surfaces.
Prototype – Parts, Components, and Cost
We're going to use a method similar to a powered wheelchair. It can be steered, moved forwards or backwards, and has two-wheel rear drive. Also, when it stops, it doesn't move easily because of the gearhead in the motor. This could be helpful, especially downhill. A joystick is perfect for this because you can control how fast and in which direction (forward or backward) each motor turns with just one lever. Wike Special Needs Extra Large Bike Trailer Conversion will be done on the Wike extra large trailer. My brother weighs 95lbs and he is 4’11” tall so we chose the extra-large version because it can accommodate an occupant up to 5’10” tall and 150lbs in weight. Our conversion design will also work on the regular-size special needs trailer. Both models are very spacious, safe, and offer the best comfort. All parts and components will be mounted directly on the Wike frame to make it look stock and professional. WIKE $1,099.99 USD L Faster Dual Motor Kit This is a 500W Motor Le...
Reinforced Rails, Handlebar with Joystick, Swivel Wheel with Better Tread
Reinforced rails with gussets The rails now have gussets on both sides for added strength and stability, which should help the frame withstand more stress. Joystick mounted on handlebar for better control The joystick is now mounted on the handlebar instead of the canopy frame. The previous setup felt too high and wasn’t comfortable for natural, two-handed control. This new position improves safety and grip. Off-road swivel wheel with improved tread The original swivel wheel didn’t handle rocks or curbs well. I found a replacement tire with an inner tube with better tread on Amazon - link below. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08R87DHRL?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title
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