Ergonomic design and evaluation of a novel laptop desk for wheelchair users

BACKGROUND: Nowadays, although using laptops to perform many routine activities is inevitable, many wheelchair users are not able to efficiently use their laptops due to their movement limitations and inappropriate workstations. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to design and evaluate a novel ergonomic laptop desk for wheelchair users by considering their movement limitations. METHODS: In this experimental study, we ergonomically designed and assessed a novel laptop desk in two phases in a laboratory. In the first phase of the study, design specifications were identified by an expert panel; accordingly, a new laptop desk was designed and prototyped for the wheelchair users. In the second phase, in order to evaluate the laptop desk, 14 wheelchair users were asked to complete a typing task within 20 minutes, both with and without using the laptop desk. Postural risk level, perceived discomfort, and task performance were evaluated using the Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) technique, Local Perceived Discomfort (LPD) questionnaire, and the number of letters typed and typing errors, respectively. RESULTS: The postures of the wrist, arm, and neck regions were corrected from RULA action level 3 to 2 when the designed laptop desk was used. In addition, the average perceived discomfort of the participants significantly decreased in the neck, shoulder, and wrist regions. Furthermore, typing accuracy was improved significantly when novel laptop desk was used. CONCLUSIONS: Accommodating wheelchair user's workstation with the novel designed laptop desk could reduce musculoskeletal disorders risk factors and help wheelchair users to perform their work more efficiently.