For an updated project description, click on the following link for the Project Readiness Package.

The ADA defines a wheelchair-accessible bathroom as being 60 by 56 inches with approximately 840 square inches being consumed by the actual toilet fixture. Most facilities are required to have two grab bars, placed 33 to 36 inches above the floor and next to the toilet.

Due to the nature of some disabilities, many people lack the strength and/or mobility use these grab bars and clean themselves after utilizing such a facility. Some people need to rely on the assistance of an aide or home healthcare worker to allow them to use the restroom.

A wheelchair-accessible bathroom allows someone in a wheelchair to use the provided facilities (i.e. toilet, paper, sink, and hand dryer) with minimal excess difficulty compared to that of someone who is not in a wheelchair. The envisioned device improves the accessible bathroom experience for differently-abled persons. The prototype will assist users with getting from the chair to the toilet, using the toilet, cleaning themselves afterwards, and returning to the chair.

The expected result is a functional prototype for our client and stakeholders, along with a set of suggested revisions to ADA requirements and standards around the device (including engineering specifications) such that this device or similar devices can be widely implemented without prohibitive costs. In addition, the team expects to deliver a semi-functional demonstration bathroom at Imagine RIT. This implementation must be minimal in cost, fit the existing ADA handicap stall footprint, and be compatible with existing toilet fixtures.

Project Name

Wheelchair-Accessible Restroom

Project Number

P17011

Start Term

2161

End Term

2163

Faculty Guide

Art North, email

Primary Customer

Doug Jaehn

Sponsor :

Problem Definition

Stake Holders

Bench Marking

Systems Design

Preliminary Detailed Design

MSD I Detailed Design

MSD II Revised Detailed Design

Build & Test Prep

Subsystem Build & Test

Integrated System Build & Test

Final Project Documentation