Turning in Circles: Understanding Manual Wheelchair Use Towards Developing User-Friendly Steering Systems

Frontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology, 2022 · DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.831528 · Published: February 17, 2022

Assistive Technology Biomedical Biomechanics

Simple Explanation

This study looks at how people in wheelchairs turn, to help design better steering systems. The researchers used sensors on wheelchairs to track movement for a week. They found that people turn a lot, about 900 times a day. Most turns are small and quick. The study suggests that current wheelchairs aren't very efficient at turning. The goal is to use this information to make wheelchairs that are easier to steer and use less energy, which could improve the lives of wheelchair users.

Study Duration

1 week

Participants

14 adults who use active wheelchairs

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
Wheelchair users turn approximately 900 times per day, indicating that changing direction is a fundamental aspect of wheelchair use.
2
The median turning radius for moving turns is 1.09 meters, and the median turning angle is 39 degrees, suggesting frequent sharp turns.
3
Turns-on-the-spot account for about a quarter of recognized activities and typically involve high angles (60°-120°), often starting from a standstill.

Research Summary

This study investigates the turning behavior of manual wheelchair users to inform the development of novel steering systems. Data was collected using wearable sensors on the wheelchairs of 14 participants over a week. The analysis revealed that users make frequent turns, averaging around 900 per day, with a mix of moving turns and turns-on-the-spot. Moving turns tend to have a small radius and angle, indicating sharp adjustments in direction. The study suggests that current wheelchair designs may not be optimal for efficient turning, as users often rely on braking to change direction. The findings can inform the development of more ergonomic and user-friendly wheelchair designs.

Practical Implications

Improved Wheelchair Design

The data can be used to design wheelchairs with more efficient and user-friendly steering systems.

Rehabilitation Strategies

Therapists could use the data to tailor treatments and training more specifically to each individual’s skills and abilities.

Sports Performance

The methods used for identifying and quantifying turns might be an insightful addition to methods used for the assessment of athletes’ performance

Study Limitations

1
The study had a relatively small sample size of 14 participants.
2
Most participants had spinal cord dysfunction, limiting generalizability to other disabilities.
3
Data collection was influenced by unknown factors and the COVID-19 outbreak.

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