The purpose of this study was to (1) evaluate the mechanical efficiency (ME) of two commercially available lever-propulsion mechanisms for wheelchairs and (2) compare the ME of lever propulsion with hand rim propulsion within the same wheelchair. Of the two mechanisms, one contained a torsion spring while the other used a roller clutch design. We hypothesized that the torsion spring mechanism w...

1 , A. Stroupe 2 , H. Aghazarian 3 , M. Garrett 4 , P. Younse 5 , and M. Powell 6 . 1 Jet Propulsion Laboratory, MS 198-219, 4800 Oak Grove Drive, Pasadena, CA 91109, [email protected]; 2 Jet Propulsion Laboratory, MS 198-219, 4800 Oak Grove Drive, Pasadena, CA 91109, [email protected]; 3 Jet Propulsion Laboratory, MS 198219, 4800 Oak Grove Drive, Pasadena, CA 91109, Hran...

The aim of this study was to investigate how the coordination patterns of shoulder muscles change with level-ground and incline wheelchair propulsion. Wheelchair kinetics and electromyography (EMG) activity of seven muscles were recorded with surface electrodes for 15 nondisabled subjects during wheelchair propulsion on a stationary ergometer and wooden ramp (4 degree slope). Kinetic data were ...

BACKGROUND Wheelchair research includes both qualitative and quantitative approaches, primarily focuses on functionality and skill performance and is often limited to short testing periods. This is the first study to use the combination of a performance test (i.e. wheelchair propulsion test) and a multiple-day mobility assessment to evaluate wheelchair designs in rural areas of a developing cou...

Over the last 10 years the electrical propulsion fleet grew three times faster than the world fleet. This paper provides an overlook of the main drivers supporting this impressive growth and explores supporting drivers for future growth. The paper also explores two emerging technologies in electrical propulsion and distribution and how these influence ship design: DC distribution and energy sto...

The paper presents the application of artificial neural network for simulation and diagnostic purposes applied to a gas turbine powered marine propulsion plant. A simulation code for the propulsion system, developed by the authors, has been extended to take into account components degradation or malfunctioning with the addition of performance reduction coefficients. The above coefficients becom...

Following the political discussion of global warming and the political objective to support green mobility, in particular electric mobility, there is a substantial discussion whether or not electrical vehicles are dangerous for pedestrians based on their low noise level. This paper aims at answering the question regarding the specific injury risk resulting from electrical vehicles. The study is...