A new design for an old concept of wheelchair pushrim

• Published in: Disability and rehabilitation: Assistive technology 2012-05, Vol.7 (3), p.234-241
• Main Authors: Medola, Fausto Orsi, Fortulan, Carlos Alberto, Purquerio, Benedito de Moraes, Elui, Valeria Meirelles Carril
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Adult; Computer Simulation; Equipment Design; Ergonomics; Ergonomics - instrumentation; human engineering; Humans; Male; Polyurethanes; Prototypes; Rehabilitation; self-help devices; Technical aids; Upper limbs; User-Computer Interface; Wheelchairs
• ISSN: 1748-3107; 1748-3115
• DOI: 10.3109/17483107.2011.629327

Purpose: 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. Implications for Rehabilitation Manual wheelchair propulsion has been related with upper limb injuries that may potentially limit functionality. The conventional pushrim does not meet the need for a firm and stable grip, requiring further effort to hold the pushrim during manual propulsion that may cause discomfort, pain and contribute for developing upper limb injuries. In a relatively small sample of wheelchair users, this study shows that an ergonomically designed pushrim makes manual propulsion easier and more comfortable compared to the conventional pushrim.