Carbon Black: Carbon Fiber Wheelchair

Ian C. Langtree - Writer/Editor for Disabled World (DW)
Published: 2011/10/17 - Updated: 2016/03/26
Category Topic: Wheelchair Types - Academic Publications

Page Content: Synopsis - Introduction - Main

Synopsis: Using the very latest composite materials and engineering Carbon Black is set to change perceptions of the wheelchair.

Introduction

Designed and manufactured by presenter and inventor Andrew Slorance, Carbon Black promises to revolutionize the experience of wheelchair users worldwide.

Main Content

Built in England using the very latest composite materials and engineering, Carbon Black is set to change perceptions of the wheelchair - resulting in a desirable piece of design and technology, rather than purely a medical device.

Devices for Dignity (www.devicesfordignity.org.uk) Working alongside Andrew Slorance as a collaborative NHS development partner, National Health Technology Cooperative Devices for Dignity (D4D) identified Carbon Black as a project worthy of their support, providing Andrew with funding and expert guidance to support him taking his revolutionary product to market

Devices for Dignity is supporting Mr Slorance in getting the extremely lightweight carbon chair to market, and took part in a series of interviews with the BBC, who have been filming the development of Carbon black.

Carbon fibers are usually combined with other materials to form a composite. When combined with a plastic resin and wound or molded it forms carbon fiber reinforced plastic (often referred to also as carbon fiber) which is a very high strength-to-weight and extremely rigid material.

Finite Element Analysis (FEA) has been used to determine the optimum layup of carbon fiber to ensure the chair can cope with the tough demands of the active user. A foam core throughout the monocoque frame and wheels gives outstanding stiffness for unprecedented energy efficiency and the minimal design of Carbon Black makes it extremely compact, giving the user improved access.

Andrew Slorance comments on why this new product will revolutionize the market:

"Over the years wheelchairs have become lighter, but they are still a long way from being desirable products. It is my aim that the user of Carbon Black will feel empowered, their ability optimized by using a high end piece of technology built by F1 engineers."

This new product is due to be launched at Naidex South exhibition, London Excel on 19th October (Stand G1)

For more information please visit: www.iimaginedesign.com

Author Credentials: Ian is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of Disabled World, a leading resource for news and information on disability issues. With a global perspective shaped by years of travel and lived experience, Ian is a committed proponent of the Social Model of Disability-a transformative framework developed by disabled activists in the 1970s that emphasizes dismantling societal barriers rather than focusing solely on individual impairments. His work reflects a deep commitment to disability rights, accessibility, and social inclusion. To learn more about Ian's background, expertise, and accomplishments, visit his full biography.