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.Summary Of Anticipated Results And Implications:The end product of this Phase I proposal will be a first stage prototype of a portable, lightweight, easy-to-assemble scooter lift/carrier. Consumers who are scooter users will thoroughly evaluate the prototype and, thus, provide the proposers with a basis and direction for further development in Phase II of a commercially viable product. Phase II will also provide the opportunity to develop marketing and manufacturing strategies and stabilize follow-on funding to bring the scooter lift/carrier to commercialization. Having such a device available in the marketplace for the millions of scooter users in the United States will be valuable addition to the arsenal of assistive technology, which improves the quality of life for people with disabilities. This scooter lift/carrier will provide independent mobility to scooter users who have set their eyes on exploring the world beyond their immediate neighborhoods and give them the means to reach these new horizons.
