To evidence the benefits of wheels with integral suspension for users of wheelchairs, disseminate the findings and embed methods of human factors ergonomic theory to inform future design and enhance business practice.

Loopwheels are wheels with integral suspension, which we manufacture in the UK and export to markets around the world for use on wheelchairs. The suspension is provided by carbon composite springs, which replace rigid spokes, providing an easier and more comfortable ride for the wheelchair-user. Working together with our expert partners Strategic Simulation and Analysis Ltd, and Composite Braiding Ltd, the project seeks to develop the innovative Loopwheels in-wheel suspension technology further, using new lighter-weight materials and introducing additional performance benefits. The project seeks to introduce new more efficient processes and methods of manufacture which would be offered by introducing a very innovative composite braiding methodology to manufacture key components within our product. Through this project we aim to develop further our state-of-the-art in-wheel suspension system to enable it to be used in a range of new transport applications, in addition to providing a better experience for people who use a wheelchair.

The project is to develop a wheel with integral suspension called "loopwheels", for off-road bicycles and for wheelchairs. "Loopwheels" have springs made from a carbon composite materials in place of traditional rigid spokes. The benefits of the loopwheels technology are: - suspension within the wheel, saving space & weight - suspension in all directions of impact against the wheel, enabling the wheel to cope better with bumps and kerbs - greater user comfort - the rider feels less vibration from the road surface. In April 2013 Jelly Products launched a smaller loopwheel: a 20" bicycle wheel. The technology is the invention of Jelly's founder Sam Pearce. It is a registered design and has patents pending. The 20" wheel is suitable for small-wheeled commuter bicycles and was a true innovation in the bicycle market, offering the cyclist a much more comfortable ride than spoked wheels on folding commuter bikes. The new project aims to develop a wheel with a larger diameter with the same high levels of performance, for use in bicycles and/or wheelchairs. This is a more challenging proposition than the smaller wheels.