https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2825-4347
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Abstract
Purpose
Blind spot sensor systems can improve power wheelchair (PWC) safety. This research (1) compared accuracy of obstacle detection in the rear of a wheelchair with and without a sensor system, and (2) explored cognitive task load and perceived usability, safety, confidence and awareness in a laboratory setting, and (3) PWC users’ perceptions in real-world settings.
Materials and methods
A mixed-method design was used. PWC users were provided with the sensor system. In laboratory accuracy of obstacle detection with and without a sensor system, cognitive task load and perceived usability, safety, confidence and awareness were evaluated. Participants then used the sensor system at home for two-months before completing semi-structured interviews. Statistical and thematic analyses were conducted.
Results
Among 11 PWC users (age = 67.5 ± 7.5y), obstacles were detected more accurately with sensor system than without (p < 0.001). Using the sensor system required lower cognitive task loads (p = 0.005). The system was perceived by most users as easy to use (9/11) and its capabilities meeting their requirements (8/11). Most users did not perceive safety (9/11), confidence (9/11) or increased awareness (10/11) in the laboratory. Three themes emerged in the follow-ups: perceived usefulness, barriers to use, and recommendations. Four participants reported continued use after 2 months, reporting perceived increased awareness, convenience, and independence using the system. Those who discontinued use reported perceived lack of usefulness and technical issues. Recommendations included types of users who can benefit and sensor improvements.
Conclusions
Sensor systems may improve obstacle detection accuracy while reducing cognitive task load. However, larger scale implementation should consider recommendations for PWC service provision.
Blind spot sensors systems increased speed and accuracy of obstacle detection when using a power wheelchair.
Technical and hardware issues encountered by PWC users highlight the need for training and support services.
Technical support was out of scope for the current research project and will be explored in future research given the critical role it might play in the usability and adoption of assistive technologies.
PWC users perceived there to be practical uses for blind spot sensor systems.
IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATION
Acknowledgments
The authors acknowledge the AGE-WELL Network of Centres of Excellence (NCE), the Center of Interdisciplinary Research in Rehabilitation and Social Integration (Cirris) and the Réseau Provincial de Recherche en Adaptation-Réadaptation (REPAR) for PhD Scholarships to A. Pellichero. Salary support was provided to K. L. Best and F. Routhier by the Fonds de recherche du Québec – Santé (FRQS) (junior 1 and 2 respectively).
Declaration of interest statement
Dr. Pooja Viswanathan is owner of Braze Mobility Inc., representing the commercial partner for this project (i.e., Braze Sentina sensors). The company creates after-market products for wheelchairs such as sensor systems to improve driver awareness and safety. In order to manage this conflict of interest, Dr. Viswanathan did not have any contact with the participants and was not involved in any system installation, data collection or analysis. Her involvement was limited to in-kind consultation on the development of the in-lab study protocol, training of research team members on use and maintenance of the sensor systems in the lab, and review of resulting publication. Installation of the system on participants’ wheelchairs, and all data collection and analyses were completed independently by team members who are not part of Braze Mobility Inc.