The Alligator Tail


A wheelchair attachment that aids users in learning how to perform advanced wheelchair skills.

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People who use wheelchairs risk injuring themselves when learning new skills.


Learning to use a wheelchair is crucial for people with spinal cord injuries or other trauma affecting their ability to walk. Patients will often go through months of expensive, one-on-one physical therapy training to develop the skills needed to independently operate a wheelchair, like performing a wheelie. During these physical therapy sessions, the therapist stands behind the wheelchair to catch the patient if they tip back too far, which can cause injury to both patient and therapist.

The Solution

The Alligator Tail

A mobile, removable, and adjustable angled bench that catches the user when they tilt back too far


User Friendly

Large hooks allow our design to be easily attached and removed from any rigid wheelchair without the need for tools or additional adaptations.

Adjustable

The notches in the base of our design make the angle of the bed easily adjustable. This accommodates a wide range of individual users and their preferences, as well as variable wheelchair configurations.

Mobile

The ball-and-socket wheel allows the device to move easily with the wheelchair with a minimal influence on the user’s mobility.

High Quality Training

Our device does not interfere with the user’s balance. This enables a high quality of training wherein users can find the exact point of balance that they are used to once the device is removed without having to relearn any skills.

Safe

The cushioned bed dampens the impact of the catch to minimize the risk of new injuries to users and maximize comfort during repeated practice. Additionally, the device does not damage the chair upon impact.

Practical

Our prototype was made from just over $100 of purchased materials, paling in comparison to the cost of one-on-one training. Also our device requires minimal assistance for use, enabling group, at-home, or even independent training.

What's Next?


Our device is currently designed to be used in an indoor training environment. We intend to adapt the device for use in the community as a more permanent safety installment for any person who uses a rigid-frame wheelchair.

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