Development of a universal wheelchair narrower

Area of Science:

• Rehabilitation Engineering
• Assistive Technology
• Biomechanics

Background:

• Wheelchair user mobility is often limited by architectural barriers like narrow doorways and confined spaces.
• Modifications to home and work environments can be expensive and do not address mobility challenges in public transport.
• Reducing the overall width of a wheelchair while occupied is a potential strategy to enhance accessibility.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a novel device, the "wheelchair narrower," aimed at reducing wheelchair width.
• To assess the effectiveness and usability of this device for improving wheelchair user mobility.
• To determine the compatibility of the wheelchair narrower with commonly used wheelchairs.

Main Methods:

• A universal wheelchair narrower was designed and manufactured.
• The device was tested at Tayside Rehabilitation Engineering Services.
• Compatibility was assessed against wheelchairs issued by the National Health Service in Scotland.
• The degree of width reduction was measured for different wheelchair types.

Main Results:

• The wheelchair narrower successfully reduced wheelchair width by 38 to 127 mm, varying by wheelchair type.
• The device was designed for compatibility with 69% of National Health Service wheelchairs in Scotland.
• Active wheelchair users found the device particularly beneficial for travel.

Conclusions:

• The wheelchair narrower presents a practical and effective solution for improving wheelchair user mobility in restricted spaces.
• This assistive device offers a more accessible and potentially cost-effective alternative to structural modifications.
• Further adoption could significantly enhance the independence and travel capabilities of wheelchair users.