Development of Lightweight, Portable, Easily Assembled Scooter

Nearly one million 3-wheeled scooters are shipped to market annually in the United States. These devices provide excellent mobility for some people with disabilities and seniors within the users' neighborhoods. However, independent mobility for scooter users who wish to explore beyond their local environs can be severely limited by the absence of convenient and affordable transportation which can take the scooter, as well as the scooter user - for example, even lifting a 150-lb. scooter into the trunk of a car presents major problems. To address this need, ACCESS/ABILITIES, in collaboration with the VA Rehabilitation R&D Center, proposes to develop a portable, lightweight, easy-to-assemble lift/carrier for 3-wheeled scooters which can be used with automobiles. Technical data on scooter specifications will be gathered from manufacturers. Three design approaches will then be developed. A single design concept will be selected based on technical feasibility, commercial viability, physical practicality for users and cost efficiency. A first stage prototype will be built and tested, then evaluated by current scooter users according to a specifically prepared evaluation protocol and evaluation questionnaire based on specific "Satisfaction Variables.' A consent form for the use of human subjects will be employed. Evaluation data will be analyzed, and the feasibility of the design concept selected for evaluation will be determined. Plans will be initiated for developing the design in Phase II.