User Evaluation of Three Wheelchair Securement Systems in Large Accessible Transit Vehicles
By van Roosmalen, Linda; Karg, Patricia; Hobson, Douglas; Turkovich, Michael; Porach, Erik; Journal of Rehabilitation Research and Development, Volume 48, Number 7, pages 823-838Publication Date: 2011
Study evaluated three types of wheelchair securement systems in a large accessible transit vehicle in terms of ease of use, comfort, security, and independent use. Study participants were 20 adult wheelchair and scooter users, of whom 15 were male, and 12 were over 50 years old. Eight participants used a power wheelchair to test the securement systems, 7 used a manual wheelchair, and 5 used an electric scooter. The security systems included a 4 point tie-down system, a prototype autodocking system, and a prototype rear facing wheelchair passenger (RF-WP) system. Participants took a 15 minute city ride and completed a survey. Participants responded positively to the autodocking and RF-WP systems that were quicker and easier to use than the 4 point tie-down system. There was concern regarding the RF-WP system that rear facing travel made it more difficult to see upcoming stops and was less comfortable than a forward facing ride, and that the system may damage wheelchair wheels during use. The majority of participants preferred using an autodocking system because it allowed secure and independent forward facing travel. Participants found it undesirable, however, that a wheelchair mounted docking adaptor was needed to use the autodocking system. Implications for improvements in the design of securement systems for forward facing use are discussed.
Published by:
VA Rehabilitation Research & Development Service (Web Site: http://www.rehab.research.va.gov )
Link to text: http://www.rehab.research.va.gov/jour/11/487/vanroosmalen487.html
