Design and development of the two-plane seating concept to enable quality of sitting posture and enhanced occupational performance

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Reid, Denise^{a; *} | Brault, Richard^b | Croteau, Dianne^b

Affiliations: [a] Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada | [b] Studio Innova, Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Correspondence: [*] Address for correspondence: Dr. Denise Reid, 160-500 University of Toronto, Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, M5G 1V7, Canada. E-mail: d.reid@utoronto.ca.

Abstract: This paper describes the design development and field testing of a novel seat concept – the two-plane seat with children with physical disabilities. A discussion highlights the potential of the two-plane seat to improve the quality of sitting posture and enhanced occupational performance in disabled children. Relevant literature on postural seating and occupational performance is presented. Design criteria and the results of design development evaluations are summarized. One pilot field evaluation involving children and their parents at home is reported. Overall, the results of this field trial illustrate the potential of the two-plane seating concept when incorporated into a bench seat with a table to influence the quality of sitting and occupational performance of children. Future research aims at evaluating this novel seating concept when incorporated in different seat surfaces. Recommendations for future research are provided.

DOI: 10.3233/TAD-2009-0291

Journal: Technology and Disability, vol. 21, no. 4, pp. 149-158, 2009