장애 아동의 신체 발달에 따른 성장형 휠체어 디자인을 위한 사용자 경험 분석 연구 = A Study on User Experience Analysis for Growth-Adapted Wheelchair Design Based on the Physical Development of Children with Disabilities

다국어 초록 (Multilingual Abstract)

Background: Childhood is a period of rapid physical and cognitive development. For children with mobility impairments, a wheelchair is a vital tool for independent growth rather than a mere means of transport. Currently, however, many utilize adult wheelchairs, leading to musculoskeletal issues, while designs ignoring age-specific characteristics hinder self-reliance. To overcome these limits of monolithic devices, this study proposes design guidelines for a "growth-adaptable wheelchair" tailored to developmental stages.
Methods: A systematic approach was implemented to address the challenges of children with mobility impairments. First, a literature review identified current operational limitations. Second, interviews with ten experts derived essential design elements for different age groups. Third, video ethnography was utilized to construct user journey maps, extracting physical and psychological pain points. Fourth, based on schematic mapping analysis, a modular design guidelines was established for structural improvements.
Results: To address physical distortion and psychological withdrawal from adult wheelchair use, this study formulated growth-responsive modular solutions. Focusing on the limitations of conventional fixed frameworks, which fail to accommodate rapid physical growth and changing functional needs, a systematic framework for dimensional adjustment and scalability was established. A wing-frame structure for stepwise expansion was expected to improve in enhancing physical fit and extending product lifecycles, leading to guidelines for flexible reconfiguration.
Conclusion: This study proposed "Physio-Psychologically Integrated Design Guidelines for Growth-Adaptable Wheelchairs." The variable module-based structure overcomes the constraints of traditional devices and improves physical compatibility. Furthermore, by integrating emotional design elements considering operational proficiency and psychological stability, this research enhanced independent mobility and established a benchmark for user-centered customized design that supports child development.