Children with Achondroplasia, the most prevalent form of dwarfism, face limited options for bicycles due to growth patterns and unique body proportions (short limbs and long torso). This project aims to design, prototype, and test a method to adapt a children’s bicycle to comfortably fit a child with Achondroplasia and facilitate learning. We collaborated with the family and a 6-year-old child to identify unique product needs and user interfaces as well as conducted biomechanical analyses. The initial prototype incorporated “off-the-shelf” materials and hardware that proved the feasibility of modifying a 12” balance bicycle. The prototype was further improved via customization of crank length and back wheel brackets. Through testing and a user fit assessment, we successfully developed a bicycle that addresses the unique needs of a child with Achondroplasia while also holding paramount safety, comfort, and enhancement of the learning experience.

• This report represents the work of one or more WPI undergraduate students submitted to the faculty as evidence of completion of a degree requirement. WPI routinely publishes these reports on its website without editorial or peer review.

Creator

• Johnson, Alden
• Kay, Julia
• Nerkowski, Christopher
• Gonthier, Natalie

Publisher

• Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Identifier

• E-project-042524-140205
• 121743

Palavra-chave

• Safety
• Achondroplasia
• Learning
• Accessible Riding
• Bicycle
• Comfort

Advisor

• Wodin-Schwartz, Sarah Jane

Year

• 2024

Date created

• 2024-04-25

Resource type

• Major Qualifying Project

Major

• Mechanical Engineering

Source

• E-project-042524-140205

Rights statement

• In Copyright