Comparison of Manual Wheelchair and Pushrim-Activated Power-Assisted Wheelchair Propulsion Characteristics during Common Over-Ground Maneuvers

Sensors, 2021 · DOI: 10.3390/s21217008 · Published: October 22, 2021

Assistive Technology Biomedical Biomechanics

Simple Explanation

This study compares the use of manual wheelchairs (MWCs) and pushrim-activated power-assisted wheelchairs (PAPAWs) during everyday tasks. PAPAWs are designed to help MWC users by providing extra power when they push the wheels. The research measured how much effort people put into pushing the wheelchairs and how the wheelchairs moved during different activities. The results showed that PAPAWs can reduce the amount of effort and the number of pushes needed to move the wheelchair. However, the study also found that PAPAWs might make it harder to control the wheelchair's direction, as users sometimes deviated from their intended path. Future research could focus on improving the control systems of PAPAWs to make them easier to use.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

One skilled MWC user and three able-bodied individuals

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
Using PAPAWs significantly reduces propulsion effort (RMS torque) and push frequency compared to manual wheelchairs.
2
Linear and angular velocities of the wheelchair were significantly higher when using PAPAWs, indicating increased speed.
3
Participants perceived lower physical demand and effort when using PAPAWs, as reflected in NASA-TLX scores.

Research Summary

The study compares manual wheelchair (MWC) and pushrim-activated power-assisted wheelchair (PAPAW) propulsion during common over-ground maneuvers. Findings indicate that PAPAWs reduce propulsion effort and push frequency while increasing linear and angular velocities. Subjective assessments using NASA-TLX showed lower physical demand and effort with PAPAWs, though some participants experienced higher mental demand.

Practical Implications

Reduced Risk of Injury

Lower propulsion effort and push frequency with PAPAWs may reduce the risk of chronic upper limb injuries for wheelchair users.

Enhanced Mobility

Higher linear velocity with PAPAWs can improve efficiency in daily life activities, allowing users to travel faster and complete tasks more quickly.

Improved PAPAW Control

Future PAPAW controllers should focus on improving wheelchair controllability and maneuverability to mitigate unintended deviations from desired paths.

Study Limitations

1
Small sample size limits generalizability.
2
Majority of participants were able-bodied individuals.
3
Experiments were performed under controlled conditions, lacking variety of real-world wheelchair activities.

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