Design and Development of a Portable Watercraft Transfer Device
By Brown, Karl W.; Goodwin, Diane M.; Rovig, Sherry; Lee, Nicholas; RESNA Annual Conference - 2009,Publication Date: 2011
Paper outlines the design and development of a portable watercraft transfer device for boaters with mobility disabilities. Prototype watercraft transfer structures, transfer seats, and accessories were developed and tested. Subsequently, 11 female and 10 male boaters from a variety of physical ability levels and backgrounds evaluated the prototypes. Feedback indicated preferences for the following designs: (1) two transfer structures: the lightweight Frame and Fabric Chute, designed for use on small craft, featuring a level transfer platform with four folding legs for stability and a hinged section extending from the transfer platform that can be inclined or declined to reach the watercraft; and the Rail System, a more substantial structure for transferring individuals who require more assistance, with two rails spanning support frames on either end, incorporating two height adjustable legs; (2) two seating systems: the Rigid Seat featuring tilt adjustment and modular back and lateral supports to allow the rider to sit in line with or perpendicular to the transfer path; and the sling style Bead Seat with a conformable seat cushion for pressure relief and pelvic leveling; (3) wave attenuation supports, including the Air Bladder, which provides a fluid joint between the transfer path and the watercraft; and the Pan and Bowl consisting of a ball and socket that allows the watercraft to move with minimal disturbance of the transfer path; and (4) the Ratcheting Pulley, a traverse mechanism developed to facilitate safe and easy passage from one end to the other.
Published by: Rehabilitation Engineering & Assistive Technology Society of North America (RESNA) (Website:http://www.resna.org)
Rehabilitation Engineering & Assistive Technology Society of North America (RESNA) (Web Site: http://www.resna.org )
Link to text: http://web.resna.org/conference/proceedings/2009/JEA/Brown.html
