Instructions for Making a Four Bar Linkage Attachment for Center Mounted Footrest

Mid-drive power wheel chairs (PWC) have become more popular in recent years. However, due to the placement of the front casters, the traditional side-mounted footrests have been replaced by a single center-mounted footrest. Unfortunately, center-mounted footrests do not have a lift/lower mechanism that is easily operable by certain PWC users who transfer independently. Many PWC users have limited trunk strength and range of motion, decreased sensitivity in their lower body, and lack of fine motor function. This causes difficulty reaching the footrest to raise it. There is a need for a design solution that allows PWC users to independently lift and lower the footrest.

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Step 1: Replacing the Pin to Lock Bar Into Place

Replace hinge pin on existing footrest with round metal rod and drill set screws into the hinge to lock bar into place.

Step 2: Cut Two Plastic Pieces

Cut two plastic pieces approximately 4" by 1" by 1".

Step 3: Cut Two Wooden Bars.

Cut two wooden bars. One approximately 17" in length and the other approximately 5" in length. Width and depth should be 1" by 1".

Step 4: Drill Two Holes Into Both Ends of Each Plastic Piece

Drill two holes into both ends of each plastic piece. Three of these holes should be of slightly bigger size than normal size screws. They should be able to have a screw slip in and out. The fourth hole should be the size of the metal bar used in the hinge and should hold it firmly. Insert metal bar into this hole and drill set screw in plastic piece to hold metal bar in place.