State of the Art in Automotive Adaptive Equipment

Abstract

Although some forms of automotive adaptive equipment designed to enable people who are physically disabled to drive have been on the market for many years, development has been slow until the last 10 to 15 years. Advanced-design, reliable devices have recently become available to allow persons who are severely disabled to gain transportation independence. Equipment for ingress/egress, primary and secondary control, and occupant protection have come on the market or are nearly ready for procurement. Much remains to be done, however, especially in integrating this equipment into a system for transportation. Primary controls (throttle, brake, and steering) and occupant protection still require much research and development. Cost, liability considerations, and a small market demand restrict development, but real progress has been made.