A Study of Users of Powered Wheelchairs, Buggies and Scooters

One hundred and three experienced users of powered vehicles were invited to Banstead Mobility Centre on two separate days to try a range of vehicles. Twenty five vehicles were included in the study demonstrating the wide variety of features in design of electric wheelchairs, three-wheeled scooters and four-wheeled buggies. Each user was classified according to age, disability group and sex. The presence of pain, muscle weakness, and joint restrictions were noted and anthropometric measurements were recorded, together with other relevant attributes. On average each user tested nine vehicles over the two days. The users' subjective views, together with objective scores obtained during set indoor and outdoor tests, were recorded. This data was analysed in relation to the users' abilities and difficulties. It was confirmed that some features of design are helpful to some disabled and elderly users whilst other features make vehicle uncomfortable and more difficult for many users. It is hoped that, by informing prospective users of the features which they should seek or avoid before they select a vehicle, this study will enable a more appropriate matching of vehicles to users. In the long term, this study should facilitate the design of vehicles, enabling manufacturers to take users' abilities and difficulties into account.

• Availability:
  • Find a library where document is available. Order URL: http://worldcat.org/isbn/2857823479
• Corporate Authors:

  Institut National de Recherche sur les Transports et leur Securite (INRETS)

  2 Avenue du General Malleret-Joinville
  Arcueil Cedex,   France  F-94114
• Authors:
  • Cornwell, Morigue
• Conference:
  • The 6th International Conference. Mobility and Transport for Elderly and Disabled Persons
  • Location: Eurexpo-Lyon , France
  • Date: 1992-5-31 to 1992-6-3
• Publication Date: 1992

Language

• English

Media Info

• Media Type: Print
• Features: References; Tables;
• Pagination: pp 683-687
• Monograph Title: Mobility and Transport for Elderly and Disabled Persons. Proceedings of the 6th International Conference

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Abilities; Aged; Design; Persons with disabilities; Scooters
• Identifier Terms: Transed
• Uncontrolled Terms: Matching; Mobility aids; Motorized wheelchairs
• Subject Areas: Design; Public Transportation; Safety and Human Factors; Society;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 01084741
• Record Type: Publication
• ISBN: 2857823479
• Files: TRIS
• Created Date: Jan 28 2008 8:12AM