Satisfaction of Using 3D Printing Wheelchair Racing Gloves for Class T54 Thai National Athletics

Abstract

The objective of this research examined the user satisfaction from using three-dimensional printing wheelchair racing gloves for two disabled male class T54 of Thai national athletes. The sampling population of this research was selected by purposive sampling methods to evaluate user satisfaction in 3 significant parts as following 1) production, 2) usage, and 3) maintenance. There were several tools and methodologies to collect relevant information using questionnaires, in-depth interviewing, and prototype testing in Tokyo Paralympic Games 2021. This research shows that the participatory user production of wheelchair racing gloves from digital technology and 3-dimensional printing has a precise form, size, weight, surface texture, and re-production. Using 3D printing wheelchair gloves helps disabled athletes reduce time records in 800, 1,500, and 5,000 meters from 4 of 6 races. Moreover, the athletes were most satisfied with repairing and three-dimensional printing wheelchair racing gloves for the ease of surface cleaning and deformation resistance of more than 60 Celsius. The knowledge from this research can be made for better response to user requirements and improvement of wheelchair gloves performance.