Motivated by the 20 million people in developing countries who need a wheelchair, we created the Leveraged Freedom Chair (LFC). A lever drivetrain made from bike parts enables users to travel 75% faster on tarmac than a conventional wheelchair and off-road like no other mobility aid available. With the levers removed it transforms into a regular wheelchair for indoor use. The LFC empowers disabled people who would otherwise be excluded to access education, employment and community connections.

Existing products in developing countries cannot cope with the rough terrain, leaving many disabled people housebound and unable to access education and employment, let alone enjoy a decent quality of life. Donor-funded non-profits have tried to combat this by mass producing and distributing standard wheelchairs, but these are not appropriate and when they break, spare parts are not available. Users deserve a reliable product that empowers them to participate in their communities.

Problem

The LFC is motivated by the 20 million people in developing countries need a wheelchair (USAID), where existing products like western-styled wheelchairs and hand-powered tricycles cannot cope with the rough terrain. A device with the LFC’s capabilities is desperately needed, as these people must often travel long distances under their own power to access education, employment, and community connections.

Solution

The LFC is a technical innovation born from rigorous science and engineering. Instead of using gears and derailleurs that are likely to break under the conditions faced by our developing country users, the user changes gears by moving his hands on the levers. This means the LFC provides unparalleled mobility while keeping costs down and ensuring local repairability. This enables disabled people to travel to points of employment, increasing economic opportunity.

Example

The LFC is purchased and distributed by NGOs, governments, and other relevant disability organizations. Some of these organizations will distribute the LFC for free because the people they serve cannot afford to pay, while other organizations will charge the end user for some of the cost of the chair, as appropriate. We will provide training to organizations on how to assemble the LFC and how to properly prescribe and fit it to patients. Wheelchair users in developing countries gain the most. With the LFC their mobility is increased, allowing them to more easily access points of employment and education. This improves economic outlook for the user and often contributes to the well-being of the entire family. They can better participate in their communities, boosting confidence and improving quality of life.