The "universal securement/restraint system for wheeled mobility aids on public transportation vehicles" project involved the design, construction and testing of several prototypes. The project involved a rigorous pre-design phase that used a unified design methodology for systematic problem analysis prior to design. The project was strongly supported and directed by an advisory committee that was made up of mobility aid users who regularly ride transit as well as transit agency staff that included operators, maintenance and management personnel. The design concept involves an interface unit that is attached to the mobility aid and a securement system that is mounted on the vehicle. On large fixed route vehicles, the universal securement system permits the mobility aid user to independently engage the system in a few seconds. A personal restraint system that involves a lap belt and harness system is also provided, and mobility aid users are strongly recommended to use the restraint system. On demand responsive and over the road buses, an additional strap is provided to secure the front of the mobility aid in the unlikely event of a roll over.
Samenvatting