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Abstract
This study investigates the functionality and feasibility of a novel smart seat cushion system designed for wheelchair users with spinal cord injuries. The cushion, equipped with air cells that serve as both sensors and actuators, was tested on 24 participants for its real-time pressure mapping, automated pressure redistribution, and pressure offloading functions. A commercial pressure mat was concurrently used to validate the cushion’s pressure modulation functions. Additionally, the perceived comfort of the cushion was evaluated using General Discomfort Assessment (GDA) and Discomfort Intensity (DIS) scores, which provided insights into participants’ overall comfort and discomfort levels. Real-time pressure profiles generated by the cushion resembled commercial pressure mat readings. During tests with individuals with spinal cord injury, the cushion was able to dynamically generate and display the real-time pressure profile of a seated individual with strong precision (correlation to commercial pressure mat: r ranging from 0.76 to 0.88), providing effective input into pressure modulation functions. Pressure redistribution algorithms eliminated peak pressure and reduced the overall pressure at the interface. Pressure offloading algorithms automatically identified the regions with the highest interface pressure and subsequently relieved the pressure from those areas. User feedback showed that the cushion was comfortable after redistribution and offloading. This work demonstrated the feasibility of an advanced smart seat cushion system for wheelchair users with spinal cord injuries. The cushion was capable of redistributing pressure evenly across the seating surface, ensuring user’s comfort. Additionally, it identifies and eliminates high-pressure points, further improving comfort and reducing the risk of pressure injuries.
IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATION
Majority of wheelchair users acquire pressure injuries in their lifetime, where the magnitude and duration of sitting interface pressure are major contributing factors to develop pressure injuries.
Compliant cushions and frequent weight shifting can reduce the magnitude and duration of sitting interface pressure; however, the long-term effectiveness of these cushions and the user’s lack of compliance to the weight shifting protocols impact their efficacy drastically.
An automated cushion system that can reduce the magnitude of the pressure based on the user’s current pressure profile and offload pressure from vulnerable areas would improve the effectiveness of the cushion and compensate for poor adherence to weight shifting protocols.
Automated solutions will significantly improve the quality of care provided to wheelchair users and reduce the risk of developing pressure injuries.
This work was supported by internal funds from the University of Texas at Arlington Research Institute and significant support from the Baylor Scott and White Institute for Rehabilitation. We would also like to thank all individuals who participated in this study.
Disclosure statement
No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).