Dynamic load testing evaluation of the manual wheelchairs using bar-type securement system based on the regulations on aircraft seats

Abstract

This study assumed that the “Welchair”, a non-foldable manual wheelchair for automobile use, and the bar-type wheelchair securement system are used in an aircraft cabin, and the conformance to the dynamic load requirements in the aviation safety regulations was evaluated. As a result of the dynamic load testing, the tested wheelchair and the securing anchor bar were not fractured, and their deformation did not seem to impede evacuation. In addition, the safety belt remained on the pelvis, and the lumbar load of the anthropomorphic test device was below the threshold. In other words, the conformance to the dynamic load requirements was promising. Although several requirements such as the consideration of floor deformation could not be incorporated into the test, analytical evaluation clarified the wheelchair and the securement system could also conform under those conditions. However, the entire wheelchair slid laterally under left-right asymmetrical setup conditions due to the absence of lateral restraint in the bar-type wheelchair securement system applied in this study. Considering the possibility of affecting emergency evacuation, it is important to make improvements to prevent sliding.