Class Project
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The Frame
The type of tubing (aluminum vs. steel) and the radius of the tubing should be considered when designing a wheelchair. Carbon steel tubing is more available and less costly than aluminum, although the end result is that the chair will be heavier than one built with an aluminum frame.
The frame is constructed from steel tubing cut to length with a cut-off saw and a manual tube cutter. The tubing is heated, then bent with a tube bender.
An end mill is used to miter the ends of the tubing to match the adjoining tubes.
A triangular shaped gusset is milled on the CNC mill and brazed onto the corner of the frame to reinforce the frame joints.
A wood jig is made to aid in the assembly and welding process.
Plastic end caps for the tubing are made on the lathe.
The back upholstery slides over the steel frame tubing. The seat upholstery is screwed to the frame.
