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WheelTrak provides a method of monitoring the physical activity of a person with disabilities.
Considerable evidence supports the hypothesis that a moderate level of physical activity reduces the risks of coronary heart disease and all-cause mortality. Consequently, many psychological and behavioral theories address correlates of physical activity behavior. Unfortunately, such theories/models have not led to subsequent long-term increases in
physical activity. As a result, efforts exploring new, more effective models continue.
 Research indicates that secondary health conditions can be prevented or abated by adopting a healthier lifestyle inclusive of regular physical activity. Higher levels of physical activity also maximize the potential for independence and improve the quality of life of people with disabilities. However, individuals with disabilities are overwhelmingly inclined to adopt physically inactive lifestyles. To date, there is little information describing physical activity profiles of individuals with disabilities, thus limiting supportable health improvement guidelines.
While many methods are available for assessing physical activity in the able bodied, they have limited utility for people with disabilities. This is especially true for wheelchair users. To address the measurement need, we developed a prototype device called "WheelTrak." WheelTrak is able to record:
- Wheel rotation to ±45° accuracy using Hall effect sensors. This allows for the calculation of travel distance and speed.
- Wheelchair azimuth using an electronic compass allows for the calculation of travel path and activity type.
- Wheelchair inclination using precision MEMS accelerometers which facilitates the calculation of path altitude changes and wheelchair inclination.
- Heart rate gives activity level intensity.
- Outdoor movement using a global position system (GPS) provides a reference frame for actual location and data link to geographical information systems.
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