Curtiss-Wright Corporation (NYSE: CW) today announced that its Industrial division has expanded the functionality of its R-net multi-module control system for rehab-type powerchairs, with the introduction of the R-net Gyro Module from PG Drives Technology.
The R-net Gyro Module adds an extra dimension to controlling a wheelchair by maintaining the desired drive direction irrespective of the external forces acting on the wheelchair.
Commenting for Curtiss-Wright, Senior Vice President & General Manager of the Industrial division, Kevin Rayment says: “High-speed, front-wheel-drive type wheelchairs will benefit most from the addition of the R-net Gyro Module; however the technology also offers vastly improved drive performance on rear-wheel-drive models when used with switch-type specialty controls.”
A particularly difficult issue with some fast, front-wheel-drive wheelchairs is experienced on exiting a turn when, regardless of the joystick’s position, the wheelchair can continue to turn and enter a ‘spin-out’ condition. Existing, software-based solutions have attempted to address this by slowing the wheelchair’s turning speed by a set amount, but this often results in a poor drive feel. The R-net Gyro Module offers a more reactive result by only reducing the turning speed of the wheelchair by as much as is necessary. This results in a more responsive and smoother drive feel, as the wheelchair does not need to be slowed down dramatically to maintain control.
When driving in a straight line, there may be a tendency for the wheelchair to veer to one side or the other, a condition known as fish-tailing. The Gyro Module can effectively eliminate all of these conditions. Additionally, if a wheelchair is driving across a non-level surface – e.g. a camber – the user has to make frequent steering corrections to achieve a straight line driving. This is inconvenient when using a joystick, but becomes increasingly difficult when using a switch-type controlling device such as a switch pad or head array. A further challenge in maintaining straight line driving is presented by obstacles, such as a pavement kerb, or door thresholds, particularly if they are of uneven height. The Gyro Module vastly improves control in all of these situations.
The Module includes two gyro sensors as standard. This means that if one sensor becomes defective the other maintains control. In the event of a complete gyro failure or module disconnection, the wheelchair’s drive speed is automatically limited.
The compact size of the R-net Gyro Module from PG Drives Technology means it can be easily accommodated on any wheelchair. Its ability to be mounted in one of four orientations also means fitting and setup is intuitive and simple. The R-net Gyro Module has also been designed to work with existing R-net Modules; and all Power Modules will be upgraded to support gyro functionality as standard.
Curtiss-Wright’s Industrial division is a recognized leader in the production of critical controls and assemblies for specialty vehicles, including sensors, electronic throttle controls and joysticks. Its PG Drives Technology business has almost 40 years’ experience in sophisticated mobility control systems and is one of the world’s foremost suppliers of these products. For further information about other innovative solutions available from Curtiss-Wright’s Industrial division, please visit www.cw-industrial.com or call +44 (0)1425 271444.
