Handbikes are powered by the arms. They are bicycles for people with physical disabilities, such as paraplegia. Handbikes are designed for sporting use, featuring a low road position, long wheelbase, and aerodynamic design. This can lead to difficulties during breaks, for example, in a beer garden, where good maneuverability is required to navigate to the table or alone to the restroom.
As part of the newly launched project seminar E-BikeAble NEXT, a hybrid handbike is being pursued that combines the sporting characteristics of a handbike with the maneuverability of a conventional wheelchair. To enable less athletic individuals to participate, an innovative concept known as the generator principle is being implemented. This involves using arm movements to drive a generator, which then supplies power to the battery for the electric drive.
The international student team of the project seminar is dedicated and motivated to advance weight optimization while also considering economic factors. They will also work on the implementation of the control and regulation of the handbike, as well as developing an ergonomic interface through which various functions such as seat adjustment, coupling maneuvers, driving modes, and safety features can be accessed.