An Assistive Powered Wheelchair: Stage 2 Trial
Research type
Research Study
Full title
An Assistive Powered Wheelchair: Stage 2 Trial - Powered Wheelchair User Evaluation of an Obstacle Alerting System. A non-interventional study
IRAS ID
257062
Contact name
Mohamed Sakel
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
East Kent Hospitals University NHS Foundation Trust
Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 4 months, 27 days
Research summary
Many powered wheelchair users find driving safely and confidently a challenge.
For example it can be difficult to avoid collisions when reversing, driving in crowded spaces, down narrow corridors or through doorways.
One outcome is that the user becomes hesitant to use their powered wheelchair. This restricts their independent mobility with a subsequent reduction in quality of life - for themselves and for their carers and family.
This study is the second stage of a three stage multi-centre European research project "Empowerment of Disabled people through the User Coproduction of Assistive Technology"[EDUCAT - www.educat2seas.eu].
The goal is to assist the powered wheelchair user to drive more safely and confidently thus enhancing their independence and quality of life.
The stages are
Stage 1. Monitor user well-being and effect of medication by recording and analysing joystick movements. This information may help identify when the user needs help and how to design a wheelchair that will help them to drive more confidently and safely. This stage started in July 2018. Preliminary data analysis is underway.
Stage 2. Provide the powered wheelchair user with information about obstacles. Sensors, e.g. ultrasound, and user feedback, e.g. display screen and voice output, is attached to the chair for a period of five or more days. The user evaluates the system and provides feedback to inform the design and development process.
Stage 3. Provide driving assistance to help the user avoid collisions.
Because this is an extensive study the current proposal only covers stage 2. The stage 1 system is integrated into Study 2. Stage 1 and Stage 2 systems will be integrated into the stage 3 study.
The study will be carried out in NHS facilities and in the homes of participants.
It is planned for Stage 2 to last up to 18 months.REC name
East of England - Cambridge Central Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
20/EE/0007
Date of REC Opinion
22 Jan 2020
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion