Iterative design and evaluation of new prone carts for individuals with SCDs: a technical note.

This paper summarizes a series of projects funded since 1992 to address the compelling need to improve the quality of life for persons with spinal cord dysfunctions who use prone carts. Specifically, Veterans Services Organization, National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research (NIDRR), and the VA Rehabilitation Research and Development funded studies to develop new consumer-driven designs for prone carts. Using an iterative approach, this team of clinicians and designers (1) evaluated existing prone carts; (2) designed a new manual prone cart; (3) designed a new motorized prone cart, including a standing model; and (4) are collaborating with manufacturers to market and commercialize the new prone carts.