Examples of the application of the cause-effect ergonomic evaluation model to the wheelchair cushions.

This article highlights the potential of the application of the cause-effect model for the ergonomic evaluation in the field of cushions. User involvement in the prescription and development of assistive devices have been identified a key aspect for positive interventions, although the reality is that we lack of systematic approaches and examples of best practices. The potential benefits are identified for the development of new products and in the prescription process. Additional research would be necessary to better link the characteristics of the cushions and users with the biomechanical and physiological performance of the interface cushion-user and the consequences measured in health, user perception and activity performance. This article shows examples of the relationship in this three levels from the point of view of the user perception.

A functional PCA model for the study of time series of pressure maps.

Principal component analysis and functional regression are combined in a model to analyze a time series of pressure maps. The model is tested measuring the pressures over a chair seat while a subject performs a combination of simple movements. A sampling rate of 3 Hz is adequate for applying the model in sitting postures. The model is able to detect patterns of movement over time, although more variables are necessary if the movements produce similar pressure distributions.

Comparison of functional regression and nonfunctional regression approaches to the study of the walking velocity effect in force platform measures.

The effect of walking velocity on force platform measures is examined by means of functional regression and nonfunctional regression analyses. The two techniques are compared using a data set of ground reaction forces. Functional data analysis avoids the need to identify significant points, and provides more information along the waveform.