Measuring vibration and shock in power wheelchairs for clinical application

This study measures WBV and shock levels during PWC driving, considering the impact of terrains, base configurations, and seat cushions. A sensor tag accelerometer was used to measure vibration and shock in three different PWC configurations driven over seven different terrains. Data was collected for two runs per wheelchair, per terrain type, per cushion type. Differences were significant (p < .001) for overall mean and median peak vibration compared across the seven terrains, and for overall mean vibration for basic and enhanced cushions. Differences were also noted in mean and peak vibration in the three different base configurations (p = .0052). Results were compared with ISO 2631-1 guidelines. Mechanical shock on certain terrains created peak vibration levels with likely health risk. Results from this study can inform PWC prescription process.PMID:37463511 | DOI:10.1080/10400435.2023.2230485

Source: Assistive Technology - July 18, 2023 Category: Rehabilitation Authors: Cathy Choi Paula Shing Stella Wang Ella Huszti Source Type: research