The Neater Uni-wheelchair was designed as an alternative to powered wheelchairs for hemiplegic users. The Neater Uni-wheelchair is a standard Action 3 chair to which a kit has been attached which enables users to self propel and steer independently of attendants.  A differential in the rear wheel enables both wheels to be driven through one pushrim and a novel steering mechanism attached to the foot plate permits self directed steering.  Earlier work by Mandy et al (2007;2009) indicated that the Neater Uni-wheelchair was more ergonomically efficient and preferred by users. 

The aim of this study was to measure motor and process skills of 20 non-disabled subjects, simulating hemiplegia, whilst performing two activities of daily living (ADL) in a repeated measures cross over randomised control trial. The ADL activities included making a bed and laying a table which were scored using the Assessment of Motor and Process Skills (AMPS) (Fisher 2006).  A practice circuit was established in a gymnasium for participants to practice manoeuvring each wheelchair until they became competent prior to commencing the actual study. They were also given the opportunity to familiarise themselves with the layout of the room and the location of the materials required to undertake the study. Time was also given between each activity, and each wheelchair, for resting heart rate to be restored. The instructions for each task were given according to the AMPS manual. Participants were randomly assigned to one of the four groups determining the order in which tasks were performed.

The measurements included: times taken to perform the tasks, heart rate at the beginning and end of each task in each wheelchair, and scores of quality of performance of ADLs using the AMPS (Fisher, 2006). The AMPS was recorded and scored by an independent qualified AMPS rater.

Data collection is almost complete and preliminary results indicate differences in motor and processing skills, time taken to complete the activities and changes in heart rate when using the different wheelchairs.