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IBOT
From ATWiki
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| Manufacturer: | Independence Technology |
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| Dimensions: | |
| Weight: | 289 lbs |
| Model Number: | 4000 |
| Date Released: | August 3, 2005 |
Contents |
History
Developed by inventor Dean Kamen, the iBOT is a medical device that can be used in place of the traditional wheelchair. It is used by people with significant mobility issues that prevent them from easily traveling from one place to another. The development of the iBOT resulted from a partnership between DEKA and Johnson and Johnson's Independence Technology division. Some of its unique features include being able to raise the rider to standing height, climb stairs, or travel over rough terrain.
Despite the appealing features of the iBOT, its use is limited to wheelchair users who still retain the use of at least one arm. Furthermore, the bulk of the design appeals to quadriplegics, however, they would be unable to use the iBOT as a result of the necessity to have at least one functioning arm. In addition, the device generally doesn't appeal to paraplegics because of the large amount of upper body strength that it requires for tasks such as climbing stairs.
How Does It Work?
The iBOT's most interesting innovation is a new system of balance, which allows the device to move on two wheels, climb stairs, or travel over rough terrain. The iBOT employs the use of iBALANCE, which is a system of sensors and gyroscopes that send readings to specified software, allowing the automated wheelchair to have a sense of balance. Several computers are used to receive motion information sent by the gyroscopes. After obtaining this information, the computers command the motors to adjust the wheels in a certain manner so that the iBOT remains stable. The iBALANCE software is correlated with the rider's center of gravity, so the iBOT adjusts with every change in motion in the rider. As a result, the rider is able to maintain an upright and stable position throughout his or her use of the iBOT.
Design Specification and Features
Seat to Floor Height: 18 inches (Rehab Seat), 21.5 inches (Automotive Seat)
Maximum Drive Range: 12.4 miles (dependent on what is being used for)
Ground Clearance: 3 inches
Length: 42.9-46.9 inches (dependent on seat size)
Width: 25.2-28.7 (dependent on seat size)
Weight: 289 lbs
Tilt: 10 degrees
Physical features on the iBOT that provide for a number of assistances to the user include: a user control panel, a lighting system, a lap belt, armrests, a calf panel, clothing guards, footrests, a security system, and the INDEPENDENCE maxPRO Seat Cushion.
Cost
In order to purchase the iBOT, the potential owner of the device must have a prescription. It should be noted that the extra features of the iBOT that make it more expensive than other wheelchairs are not considered a "medical necessity" by Medicare or Medicaid, and thus, are not covered. The cost of this wheelchair is also much higher than currently covered by insurance, but there are some efforts to increase this level of coverage.
