Exploring a wheelchair-integrated seating system for a narrow leaning vehicle
I’m an automotive prototype engineer exploring a mobility concept built around a narrow enclosed leaning vehicle platform.
The idea is not a traditional wheelchair van conversion.
Instead, I’m exploring whether the upper seating structure itself could dock directly into the vehicle and become the driver seat, while the lower mobility section remains compact and optimized for use outside the vehicle.
The challenge I’m trying to solve is balancing:
lateral support during spirited riding/cornering
pressure management for longer daily use
ingress/egress
docking motion and ergonomics
compact packaging
preserving independence without requiring a transfer
The CAD images show the general docking sequence and the last image is the actual prototype vehicle the concept is being developed around.
At this stage I’m mainly looking for industrial design / ergonomic feedback:
Would a more supportive “bucket seat” style layout become uncomfortable over time?
Would tighter lateral support create pressure point issues?
Would a wider/looser seating approach be preferable even if body control is reduced?
What obvious usability issues stand out immediately?