Whirlwind Wheelchair
Rough Rider Anti-Tip

Whirlwind Wheelchair International is a San Francisco-based group developing user-focused solutions for mobility. Their Roughrider wheelchair is a rugged, long wheelbase design optimized for the unique needs of the physically impaired in the developing world. The design, which has been in use for decades, has specific durability and usability requirements that must be considered during production, fitting, and ongoing use. When new users receive a wheelchair, there is sharp learning curve that takes place which is critical to the long-term effective use and operation of the chair. An anti-tip component was designed to assist in allowing riders to “ride with a light front end” (the front wheels off the ground, weight balanced over the rear wheels) without the fear of falling backwards (a devastating event). Unlike other restrictive anti-tip bars, this design allows users a full range of use with greater maneuverability – navigating rough terrain, curbs, and other obstacles with ease and assurance of safety. Collaborative project leading Project H Design with Whirlwind Wheelchair International. Photos courtesy of Project H Design.