Neti, Ahlad
(2024)
Good Vibes Only: An In-Depth Analysis on the Implementation of In-Wheel Suspension in Manual Wheelchair Users.
Doctoral Dissertation, University of Pittsburgh.
(Unpublished)
Abstract
This dissertation aimed to investigate the potential of using in-wheel suspension to reduce harmful whole-body vibration (WBV) and improve comfort and mobility for manual wheelchair users (MWUs). The LoopWheels Urban is designed with three C-shaped carbon fiber springs to absorb vibration and provide a smoother ride and increased comfort to the MWU. Root Mean Square (RMS) for vibration and Vibration Dose Value (VDV) for more transient shocks are used as measures for WBV. LoopWheels was found to reduce harmful vibrations and shocks experienced by MWUs with spinal cord injury (n= 26) across various indoor/outdoor surfaces and obstacles by 10% at the backrest and 7% at the footrest (all p < 0.05) compared to standard spoked and Spinergy CLX wheels in a lab setting. Neck/back pain, fatigue, and WBV exposure were further analyzed through a 12-week community-based intervention with the LoopWheels. Participants experienced a median reduction of 15% in neck pain, 8% decrease in median perceived fatigue, and reported one fewer median pain problems (all p < 0.05) after the trial period. Community sensor data shows MWUs propelled an average of two hours and were exposed to WBV levels below hazardous thresholds defined by ISO 2631. LoopWheels shows a 35% reduction in vibration and a 50% reduction in shock when compared to previous community-based studies with standard wheels. Users indicated a smoother, more comfortable ride experience, but felt the wheels were harder to push. Rolling resistance (RR) testing indicated that LoopWheels had 118% more RR on linoleum and 44% more on carpet than standard spoked wheels. LoopWheels exhibited significantly higher static deformation (max 0.27 inch) compared to standard and CLX wheels over all loading conditions (p < 0.05). Propulsion testing showed larger oscillatory amplitudes in the anterior-posterior and vertical direction that varied in phase from the standard and CLX wheels. Periodic behavior could be contributing to the sensation of reduced propulsion efficiency. While LoopWheels show promise in reducing vibration and improving health, challenges such as increased RR and dynamic behavior necessitate further exploration.
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Details
| Item Type: |
University of Pittsburgh ETD
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| Status: |
Unpublished |
| Creators/Authors: |
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| ETD Committee: |
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| Date: |
3 June 2024 |
| Date Type: |
Publication |
| Defense Date: |
21 March 2024 |
| Approval Date: |
3 June 2024 |
| Submission Date: |
28 March 2024 |
| Access Restriction: |
No restriction; Release the ETD for access worldwide immediately. |
| Number of Pages: |
173 |
| Institution: |
University of Pittsburgh |
| Schools and Programs: |
Swanson School of Engineering > Bioengineering |
| Degree: |
PhD - Doctor of Philosophy |
| Thesis Type: |
Doctoral Dissertation |
| Refereed: |
Yes |
| Uncontrolled Keywords: |
vibration, health, mobility devices, assistive technology, accelerometer |
| Date Deposited: |
03 Jun 2024 14:40 |
| Last Modified: |
03 Jun 2024 14:40 |
| URI: |
http://d-scholarship.pitt.edu/id/eprint/45921 |
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