Maneuverability and usability analysis of three knee-extension propelled wheelchairs.
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the maneuverability and usability of three knee-extension propelled wheelchairs.


METHODS
The maneuverability of the knee-extension propelled wheelchairs was determined in a controlled test representing five standard wheelchair activities. The usability of the wheelchairs was evaluated in a field test with elderly residents of an extended care facility in Salt Lake City.


RESULTS
The results indicate that the wheelchair designs using a swinging (four-bar linkage) or sliding belt mechanism are preferred to a sliding plate design.


CONCLUSIONS
The use of knee-extension propelled wheelchairs is a feasible alternative to hand propelled wheelchairs. Further development and research is needed to address power requirements, maneuverability, and entrance/egress from the chairs.
Bloswick
D S
DS
University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA. bloswick@mech.utah.edu
Erickson
J
J
Brown
D R
DR
Howell
G
G
Mecham
W
W
D000368:Aged; D004867:Equipment Design; D006801:Humans; D014910:Wheelchairs