RERC: Research Support Task G-4

G-4: State-of-the-Science Conference

Leader: Clifford Brubaker, PhD

Period: This activity is scheduled to occur early in Year III (2001) of the RERC cycle, with dissemination of results later in the same year.

Purpose

To share and consolidate current research developments on wheelchair technology,
To identify deficiencies in the successful use of current wheelchair products,
To identify and prioritize future research needs, and
To disseminate the workshop outcomes.

Scope

To address technology-related wheelchair technology, including wheelchair structures, electromechanical systems, wheelchair seating, wheelchair biomechanics, transportation safety, and standards.
To explore current manufacturing, distribution, and consumer usage issues that may impact on the successful acquisition and use of wheelchair technology.
To explore evolving clinical tools, such as outcome measures and related intervention measures that enhance the quality of service provision and qualitative documentation.

Participants
A cross-section of wheelchair technology researchers, clinicians, primary users, designers, manufacturers and suppliers will be invited to participate in the conference. Approximately 12-20 (depending on costs and budget) of the 50 invited participants will be supported to attend the workshop. Others will be invited to attend at their own expense.

Planning Update (1/30/01)
The SOS workshop is planned for February 18-20, 2001 at the Rosen Center Hotel, Orlando Florida. The workshop will precede the International Seating Symposium, which will be held in the same hotel on Feb. 22-24. Approximately 45 invited attendees will participate in a series of forums designed to solicit and document the current status and future needs in wheelchair seating. As indicated above, the results of the workshop will be posted on this web-site for general dissemination by June, 2001.

White Papers (2/9/01)
Below are links to the PDF files for the white papers.