At A Glance - Evaluation of wheelchair tire rolling resistance using dynamometer-based coast-down tests

JRRD at a Glance

Evaluation of wheelchair tire rolling resistance using dynamometer-based coast-down tests

Andrew M. Kwarciak, MS, et al.

This study determined how wheelchair tire composition and tread affect rolling resistance. Five different pairs of tires were tested on a manual wheelchair secured to a roller system. Three sets of weights were added to the seat to simulate different users. Coast-down tests revealed that the pneumatic (air-filled) tires had smaller rolling resistances and were less affected by increased weight than the solid tires. Within the two types, tires that were harder and had less tread rolled more easily. Given these and previous findings, the impact of tire type must be considered when selecting a tire.

Volume 46 Number 7, 2009
Pages 931 — 938

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