Wheelchair and Occupant Kinematics During "Low-G" Turning and Braking
By van Roosmalen, Linda, PhD; Bertocci, Gina E., PhD; Herring, Donald, IDSA; RESNA 26th International Annual Conference 2003,Publication Date: 2003
Study conducted to investigate the dynamic response of a less than optimally secured wheelchair and occupant when exposed to emergency driving maneuvers associated with large transit vehicles. The study utilized Dynaman wheelchair and occupant computer simulation software to investigate frontal impact scenarios at 30 miles per hour. Three wheelchair restraint scenarios were investigated: (1) four-point tiedown and no occupant restraint, (2) two-point tiedown and no occupant restraint, and (3) two-point tiedown and pelvic restraint. Preliminary findings suggest that unsecured forward-facing wheelchairs and unbelted occupants may not be safe even in non-crash conditions. The addition of a pelvic restraint improved the overall dynamic response of the occupant during braking and turning. These findings support the anecdotal reports of wheelchair accidents that have occurred during normal or emergency driving. Implications for further research are discussed.
Published by: Rehabilitation Engineering & Assistive Technology Society of North America (RESNA) (Website:http://www.resna.org)
