Yuan, H., Shen, X., (2023) Optimizing floor plans of accessible restrooms in elderly long-term care facilities: A path planning approach. Architectural Engineering and Design Management
In order to avoid excessively disabling an entire population of mobility aid users as well as decrease excessive dependency on caregivers, restroom design has to be optimized. The goal of this study was to explore how mobility path-planning simulation software can increase the convenience of restroom use for individuals who use wheelchairs and walkers. Researchers used a virtual path-planning method for generating floorplans and evaluating simulated patterns of movement between fixtures to identify the most convenient layout. The highest convenience score for a 2-fixture restroom layout resulted in the toilet at a 90-degree angle to the door and adjacent to the opposing wall; the sink’s optimal location was opposite the door. In a 3-fixture arrangement, the sink remained opposite the door, and the toilet remained on the same wall as in the 2-fixture arrangement but was relocated adjacent to the wall with the door so the shower could occupy its previous location. Notably, a minimum room size for a 3-fixture layout required minimum dimensions of 2m x 2m (6.5’ x 6.5’). While not statistically significant, in all scores, the 45° side approach is the most effective for limiting both path length and turning angles making corner fixtures more convenient for movement.