Which international organizations are involved in the development of electric wheelchair standards?

Which international organizations are involved in the development of electric wheelchair standards?

Here are some international organizations involved in the development of electric wheelchair standards:

1. International Organization for Standardization (ISO)

ISO/TC 173 (Assistive Products): This is a technical committee specifically responsible for the development of assistive product standards. Its SC1 (Wheelchairs) subcommittee focuses on the development of standards for wheelchairs (including electric wheelchairs). For example:

WG1 (Test Methods): Responsible for the development of standards for wheelchair test methods to ensure that the various performance of electric wheelchairs can be evaluated through scientific and unified methods.

WG10 (Requirements and Test Methods for Electro-technical Systems for Wheelchairs): Develops requirements and test methods specifically for the electrical system of electric wheelchairs to ensure the electrical safety and performance of electric wheelchairs.

WG11 (Wheelchair Seating): Involves the development of standards for wheelchair seats, which is crucial for the comfort of electric wheelchairs and the health of users.

2. European Committee for Standardization (CEN)
CEN/TC293 (Technical Aids for Disabled Persons): This committee is responsible for the development of standards for assistive devices for disabled persons. Its subordinate WG9 (Wheelchairs) working group is responsible for the development of European standards for manual and electric wheelchairs, such as EN 12183 (manual wheelchairs) and EN 12184 (electric wheelchairs). These standards are widely adopted throughout Europe and provide uniform specifications for the design, production and testing of electric wheelchairs.

3. International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC)
Although IEC is mainly responsible for standardization in the electrical and electronic fields, IEC’s relevant standards will also be referenced and cited in the electrical system and electronic control of electric wheelchairs. For example, IEC standards in battery safety, electrical insulation, etc. are crucial to the electrical safety of electric wheelchairs. IEC and ISO cooperate on many projects to ensure that the electrical system of electric wheelchairs meets both electrical safety requirements and is coordinated with the overall design and performance standards of the wheelchair.

4. Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Association (RESNA)
RESNA: This is an international organization with great influence in the field of rehabilitation engineering and assistive technology. The standards and guidelines it has formulated also have a certain guiding role in the design, performance and safety of electric wheelchairs. It not only focuses on technical standards, but also pays attention to the comfort, ease of use and adaptability of electric wheelchairs to the needs of different users from the user’s perspective.