Handicapped driver controls operability: a device for clinical evaluation of patients

Area of Science:

• Rehabilitation Engineering
• Assistive Technology
• Human Factors Engineering

Background:

• Severely handicapped individuals face challenges in operating standard motor vehicles.
• Prescribing appropriate adaptive driving controls requires accurate assessment of physical capabilities.
• Existing assessment methods may be complex or inaccessible.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a simple, cost-effective device for measuring the force input capabilities of drivers with severe handicaps.
• To facilitate the prescription of suitable motor vehicle adaptive controls for this population.
• To present a protocol for device use and interpretation of findings.

Main Methods:

• The described device utilizes readily available, off-the-shelf components.
• Construction is feasible in a standard small workshop.
• The device assesses both steering wheel and hand control force inputs using either hand.

Main Results:

• The device provides a straightforward method for quantifying driver force capabilities.
• Clinical data collected at the Texas Institute for Rehabilitation and Research and Houston VA Hospital demonstrate the device's utility.
• The protocol and interpretation guidelines support practical application.

Conclusions:

• The developed device is a practical tool for assessing the physical input capabilities of handicapped drivers.
• It supports informed decision-making in the selection of adaptive driving controls.
• This technology can enhance driving independence for individuals with disabilities.