Six University of West Florida (UWF) mechanical engineering students recently finished the first-modified vehicle of the ArgoTots program, which helps young children who experience limited mobility.
The vehicle was designed for 4-year-old Jack Carroll, who was born prematurely and has a form of cerebral palsy. Since he depends on his parents for mobility, the vehicle will allow more independent movement.
“This was a great way to give him that freedom,” said Danielle Carroll, Jack’s mother. “We could put him in it and with our help, he could take off and not have to have us necessarily next to him, helping him. Jack is definitely very determined, and he gives 100 percent in everything he does.”
ArgoTots was inspired by the nationwide Go Baby Go program, and the idea to develop a similar program on UWF’s campus was initiated by Dr. Brad Regez, an assistant professor of mechanical engineering.
“I realized there was great need and opportunity for a program of this kind in the area,” said Regez.
It is one of 17 projects under UWF’s Enterprise Program. The three-year program allows mechanical engineering students to gain hands-on design experience.
“[Within the ArgoTot program] students would retrofit, redesign and modify small kiddy cars to meet the needs of young people with special needs of some sort,” said Dr. Michael Reynolds, chair of UWF’s department of mechanical engineering.
