Reliability assessment of power wheelchairs

This is the first study, to the authors' knowledge, that modeled wheelchair field failure data to develop reliability performance measures and compare the reliability of standard and complex seating power wheelchair models. The study found a lower overall MTBF value, indicating that all study wheelchairs demonstrate poor reliability and require condition inspections every 3-6 months. Individuals requiring the highest level of care utilize complex seating wheelchair models and deserve enhanced wheelchair reliability and safety. Our study findings underscore the urgent need for reliability performance monitoring and subsequent improvements in the areas of wheelchair selection, standards, servicing innovation, and provision systems.