The development and testing of a system for wheelchair stability measurement

Article

Stefanov, D., Avtanski, A., Shapcott, N., Magee, P., Dryer, P., Fielden, S., Heelis, M., Evans, J. and Moody, L. 2015. The development and testing of a system for wheelchair stability measurement. Medical Engineering and Physics. 37 (11), pp. 1061-1069. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.medengphy.2015.08.013
TypeArticle
TitleThe development and testing of a system for wheelchair stability measurement
AuthorsStefanov, D., Avtanski, A., Shapcott, N., Magee, P., Dryer, P., Fielden, S., Heelis, M., Evans, J. and Moody, L.
Abstract

Wheelchair stability has an impact on safety as well as wheelchair performance, propulsion and manoeuvrability. Wheelchair stability is affected by the addition of life supporting heavy equipment, e.g. ventilators and oxygen cylinders, as well as the characteristics of the user e.g. limb amputations, obesity. The aim of the research described here was to develop and test a stability assessment system that would guide and support the adjustment of wheelchairs to individual needs, characteristics and lifestyles. The resulting system provides assessment of centre of gravity and wheelchair stability and calculates the wheelchair tipping angles. The system consists of a force platform that senses the weight distribution of the wheelchair and calculates the centres of the contact points of the wheels and the distances between them. The measurement data are transferred via a WiFi connection to a portable tablet computer where wheelchair stability parameters are calculated. A touch screen GUI provides visualization of the stability results and navigation through the measurement modes. The developed new concept has been evaluated through technical laboratory-based testing to determine the validity of the data collected. Initial testing has been undertaken within the clinical setting in 3 large hospitals in the UK. Initial results suggest that Wheelsense® provides a valuable tool to support clinical judgement.

PublisherElsevier
JournalMedical Engineering and Physics
ISSN1350-4533
Publication dates
Online26 Sep 2015
Print01 Nov 2015
Publication process dates
Deposited08 Oct 2015
Accepted14 Aug 2015
Output statusPublished
Additional information

Available online 26 September 2015

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)https://doi.org/10.1016/j.medengphy.2015.08.013
LanguageEnglish
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