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Maneuverability and usability analysis of three knee-extension propelled wheelchairs
D S Bloswick1, J Erickson, D R Brown
1University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA. bloswick@mech.utah.edu
Purpose:
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the maneuverability and usability of three knee-extension propelled wheelchairs.
Method:
The maneuverability of the knee-extension propelled wheelchairs was determined in a controlled test representing five standard wheelchair activities. The usability of the wheelchairs was evaluated in a field test with elderly residents of an extended care facility in Salt Lake City.
Results:
The results indicate that the wheelchair designs using a swinging (four-bar linkage) or sliding belt mechanism are preferred to a sliding plate design.
Conclusions:
The use of knee-extension propelled wheelchairs is a feasible alternative to hand propelled wheelchairs. Further development and research is needed to address power requirements, maneuverability, and entrance/egress from the chairs.
