Article

Report on the development of an ergonomic manual wheelchair pushrim and
evaluate the user's perception of the quality of the device. METHOD: Based on
anthropometric features and ergonomic concepts, a new wheelchair pushrim was
designed, and a prototype was manufactured in polyurethane, using the rapid
prototyping technique and serial production of parts by molding. The prototype
was tested by a sample of wheelchair users, who rated the perceived quality of
the device after testing both the new and conventional pushrims in a wheelchair
propulsion experimental protocol. RESULTS: The new ergonomic pushrim was found to
be, in general, better than the conventional round tube pushrim. Specifically,
experienced wheelchair users found the new wheelchair pushrim better in terms of
easy and comfortable propulsion, braking and maneuvering of the wheelchair, and appearance. CONCLUSIONS: The new wheelchair pushrim provides a proper fit for the
hands due to its ergonomic design and its polyurethane composition, making
wheelchair propulsion easier and more comfortable than the conventional
wheelchair pushrim. Assistive technology devices should be design based on
ergonomic concepts that involve less effort and offer greater comfort for the user.
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Langue : ANGLAIS