Mounting and Positioning for Assistive Technology

OVERVIEW

Many assistive technology devices, such as communication devices, tablets used for communication or environmental control, switches, and other access equipment, need to be positioned within a person's reach and field of view to be used consistently. Mounting and positioning refers to the systems and considerations used to physically place a device where a person can reliably see it, reach it, and activate it, whether the device is attached to a wheelchair, a desk, a bed rail, or a stand.

This page introduces general mounting and positioning concepts for assistive technology devices. It does not replace an individualized seating, positioning, or mounting evaluation.

WHO MAY BENEFIT

People who use AAC devices, tablets for communication or access, switches, eye gaze systems, or other assistive technology may benefit from a mounting or positioning solution when they have difficulty holding, reaching, or consistently viewing a device on their own. This can include people who use wheelchairs or other seating systems, people who spend extended time in bed, and people who need a stable, repeatable device position at a desk, in a classroom, or in a vehicle.

TYPES OF MOUNTING SOLUTIONS

Mounting solutions vary widely depending on the device, the person's seating or positioning system, and the environment where the device is used. Common categories include:

• Wheelchair-mounted arms and brackets that attach to the wheelchair frame

• Desk, table, and clamp mounts for stationary use

• Floor stands and adjustable poles that are not attached to a wheelchair or desk

• Bed rail and hospital-bed mounts

• Flexible or articulating arms that allow repositioning across multiple angles

• Wall and cabinet-mounted solutions for switches or environmental controls

• Universal mounting plates and quick-release connectors that allow the same device to move between a wheelchair mount, a desk mount, and a stand

FEATURES TO CONSIDER

Selecting a mounting solution generally involves weighing several factors together rather than any single feature.

Device weight and size. Heavier devices generally require a stronger mounting arm and a more secure attachment point.

Stability. A mount should hold the device securely during normal movement, including over ramps, thresholds, and uneven surfaces, without excessive vibration or drift.

Reach and range of motion. The mount should allow the device to be positioned within the person's functional reach, and repositioned as needed for different tasks.

Visual angle. The device should be positioned so the person can see the screen or controls without awkward neck or eye strain.

Quick-release mechanisms. Many mounting systems include a way to detach the device quickly, which can matter for safety, transfers, or transportation.

Portability. Some mounts are designed to move between settings, such as home, school, and vehicle, while others are intended to stay in place.

Fatigue. A well-positioned device can reduce the physical effort needed to reach, view, or activate it over the course of a day.

ACCESS AND COMPATIBILITY CONSIDERATIONS

Not every mount is compatible with every wheelchair frame, device, or environment. Compatibility depends on factors such as the wheelchair's frame material and available attachment points, the device manufacturer's supported mounting hardware, and whether the mount interferes with the wheelchair's folding mechanism, armrests, or other equipment already in use.

Some devices use a standard mounting plate system, which can simplify moving the same device between multiple mounts. Others require a manufacturer-specific bracket. Confirming compatibility before acquiring a mount can help avoid a solution that does not fit the intended device or seating system.

IMPLEMENTATION AND SETUP

Once a mounting solution is selected, setup generally involves positioning the arm or stand, adjusting the angle and distance to match the person's reach and vision, and securing all connection points. It can be useful to test the mounted position during typical daily activities, such as moving through doorways, going up or down ramps, and transferring in or out of a wheelchair, before considering the setup finalized.

A caregiver, family member, or clinician may need to learn how to safely attach, adjust, and remove the device from the mount, particularly when a quick-release mechanism is involved.

LIMITATIONS AND CAUTIONS

Mounting a device to a wheelchair can affect the chair's balance, width, or ability to pass through doorways, and a heavy device may affect stability on ramps or inclines. A mount that blocks the person's line of sight, restricts access to wheels or controls, or cannot be released quickly in an emergency may create a safety concern.

Mounting hardware should be checked periodically for loose connections, and any modification to a wheelchair frame should be reviewed by a qualified clinician or the wheelchair manufacturer to confirm it does not affect the chair's warranty or safety rating. This page does not recommend a specific mounting product for a specific person; equipment needs vary and should be confirmed with a qualified provider.

WHEN AN AT EVALUATION MAY HELP

A formal assistive technology or seating and positioning evaluation may help when a mounting solution needs to account for a person's specific seating system, physical needs, and daily environments, or when previous mounting attempts have not worked well. See AT Assessment & Selection.

AUTHORITATIVE RESOURCES

For a broader overview of seating, positioning, and mobility assistive technology, see AT3 Center's Seating, Positioning & Mobility resource.

For guidance specific to mounting communication devices, see CALL Scotland's Mounts & Stands for Communication Aids.

RELATED ASSISTIVETECHNOLOGY.ORG RESOURCES

For AAC-specific access methods, see AAC Access Methods. For switch interfaces and connections, see Switches and Switch Interfaces. For a broader framework on selecting and evaluating access methods, see AT Assessment & Selection. For ways to explore assistive technology at lower cost, see Low-Cost Assistive Technology.

ABOUT THIS PAGE

This page is provided for general educational purposes and is maintained by Accessibility Clinic, Inc. Mounting and positioning needs vary widely from person to person, and the information here does not constitute an individualized assistive technology, seating, or positioning evaluation. For an individualized evaluation, see AssistiveTechnologyEvaluations.org.