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Understanding vibration exposure in wheelchair users: Experimental insights.
Delphine Chadefaux1, Ophélie Lariviere1, Christophe Sauret2
1Université Sorbonne Paris Nord, Arts et Metiers Institute of Technology, IBHGC-Institut de Biomécanique Humaine Georges Charpak, HESAM Université, F-75013 Paris, France.
Medical Engineering & Physics
|November 18, 2024
Summary
Manual wheelchair (MWC) vibrations are significantly affected by floor type and speed, not just wheelchair properties. Using an able-bodied participant provides more accurate vibration data than a dummy for MWC users.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Rehabilitation Engineering
- Human Factors Engineering
Background:
- Vibration exposure from manual wheelchairs (MWCs) impacts user comfort, health, and societal participation.
- Standardized methods for assessing MWC vibrations are lacking, hindering design improvements.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate experimental factors influencing MWC vibration assessment.
- To inform the development of enhanced MWC designs and standardized testing principles.
Main Methods:
- A full factorial experimental design was employed.
- Factors examined included MWC load, speed, floor type, and MWC model.
- Vibration exposure was assessed using both dummy and able-bodied participants.
Main Results:
- Floor type was the most significant factor influencing vibration exposure.
- Speed also played a considerable role, followed by MWC properties.
- Able-bodied participants yielded more representative vibration data than dummies.
Conclusions:
- Floor surface and operational speed are critical determinants of MWC vibration.
- Participant type significantly affects the validity of vibration assessment.
- Findings support a more standardized and user-centric approach to MWC vibration research and design.
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