@inproceedings{01K590E0P9WBZFH2V5R1Y3F68S,
  abstract     = {{Active wheelchair users typically lead active lives, with a career, family, and hobbies. Therefore, they experience issues that others might overlook. One such issue is the ability to independently clean their wheels. While this might seem trivial, leaving wet or dirty marks has emotional and social consequences. This research explores the nature of this problem and cocreates an inclusive technological solution to tackle this. By doing so, we contribute to the understanding of this particular issue, propose a design solution, and provide a set of design criteria that support future developments in this area. 

To achieve this, this research applied a strong user-centred and participatory design approach, combining methodological elements from both Ulrich & Eppinger (2008) and the Double Diamond (UK Design Council, 2005) into an inclusive design methodology that maximizes opportunities for user
empowerment. 

In the research phase, existing market solutions are analysed (benchmark study) and the problem space is framed (survey, N=75). This led to the development of an set of design criteria. Next, in the exploration phase, the context of use is explored and the design criteria are deepened and validated through a series of in-depth user interviews (N=17). Besides an elaboration of the design criteria, this led to the development of six possible solution concepts. In the selection phase, a system-level concept is determined. More specifically, the identified concepts are developed into prototypes, which were evaluated and codesigned through a series of user tests (N=13). This lead to the redefinition of the design criteria and the selection of a single concept. Next, the refinement phase entails two iterative cycles of prototyping (supported by a morphological matrix and a MoSCoW analysis) and two waves of user testing and codesign (N=13 & N=6). Finally, the delivery phase explores production aspects of this solution, including the selection of materials and components, as well as technical drawings and a bill of materials.

The result is a portable product that mechanically cleans wheelchair wheels. The concept entails three main parts: (1) a tilting system, (2) bearing assembly, and (3) cleaning mechanism. The product is placed angular against the wheel and “tilts” the wheelchair onto the product by applying a forward motion, after which the tire rotates in place and every part of the tire is cleaned. Adaptable cleaning modules allow different cleaning needs. The tilting system is the most innovative aspect and prevents the small front wheels from getting in the way. Besides the codesigned solution, both the inclusive design methodology and the set of design requirements contribute to the field of Inclusive Design and Engineering.}},
  author       = {{Cornelis, Soetkin and Baccarne, Bastiaan}},
  booktitle    = {{12th conference of ALTER, European Society for Disability Research, Abstracts}},
  keywords     = {{wheelchair,Disability Research,design engineering}},
  language     = {{eng}},
  location     = {{Leuven, Belgium}},
  title        = {{Designing independence : a user-centred solution for active wheelchair users in cleaning their wheels}},
  url          = {{https://alterconf2024.sciencesconf.org/}},
  year         = {{2024}},
}