Citation

Selvanesan, Elwin Nesan (2026) Experimental investigation into enhancing a multifunctional wheelchair with the theory of inventive problem solving. Masters thesis, Multimedia University.

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Abstract

This study presents an experimental investigation into enhancing a multifunctional wheelchair through the Theory of Inventive Problem Solving (TRIZ). The research aimed to (i) apply TRIZ to resolve design contradictions in multifunctional wheelchair development, (ii) evaluate usability in terms of time efficiency, space utilization, and ease of movement, and (iii) evaluate user experience in terms of compactness, size efficiency, and portability. A TRIZ-based framework comprising problem definition, contradiction analysis, inventive principles, and Substance-Field modelling was applied to develop an improved prototype integrating wheelchair, walker, Pilates chair, and stepladder functions. Four evaluations were conducted involving time usage, space availability, rolling resistance, and usability feedback. The time usage evaluation showed that the multifunctional wheelchair reduced mean task-completion time from 128.4 s to 105.0 s in Scenario 1, from 94.2 s to 79.0 s in Scenario 2, and from 115.0 s to 94.0 s in Scenario 3, with statistically significant differences (p < 0.001). The space evaluation showed a reduction in measured floor footprint from approximately 1.95 m² for the combined single-function devices to approximately 0.77 m² for the multifunctional prototype. Rolling resistance decreased from 16.76 N for the old prototype to 11.94 N for the new prototype, while surface type also significantly affected resistance. Qualitative feedback from ten participants aged 53–80 years indicated benefits in manoeuvrability, space saving, multifunctionality, and caregiving convenience, although stiffness, two-hand operation, seating comfort, and mode-transition guidance remained areas for improvement. Overall, the findings demonstrate the feasibility of using TRIZ to systematically resolve design contradictions and develop a more compact and functionally integrated wheelchair prototype.

Item Type:	Thesis (Masters)
Additional Information:	Call No.: RM950 .E49 2026
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Rehabilitation technology
Subjects:	R Medicine > RM Therapeutics. Pharmacology
Divisions:	Faculty of Engineering and Technology (FET)
Depositing User:	Ms Nurul Iqtiani Ahmad
Date Deposited:	05 Nov 2026 12:10
Last Modified:	05 Nov 2026 12:10
URII:	http://shdl.mmu.edu.my/id/eprint/17072

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