Development, Design and Evaluation of the CataPULT PDF Download

Author: Michael Sutherland
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ISBN:
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Languages : en
Pages : 0

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Book Description
The purpose of this project was to design and evaluate a mechanical training device for the upper limb rehabilitation of stroke survivors. The importance of this issue is widely acknowledged, particularly given the rising number of stroke patients presenting with rehabilitation challenges. Therefore a feasible and clinically effective solution for rehabilitation of the upper limb is needed. A critical review of literature examined theory and concepts pertaining to complications of general, stroke, rehabilitation of the upper limb, device design, testing processes and benefits and challenges of existing devices. A three-phased approach was adopted towards the design and evaluation of the device named CataPULT; Development of device specification, Production of the device, and Testing of the device on a single healthy subject. Testing involved three assessments; Isolated range of motion; Elastics load capacity; and Functional movement. CataPULT demonstrated the capacity for engaging three modes of operation; between 'Elastic', 'Free', and 'Locked' modes which are interchangeable within clinical environments with appropriate tools. Findings highlighted that CataPULT has the potential to support the arm and provide assisted movement through a functional range of motion to facilitate upper limb rehabilitation following stroke. The elastics enhanced device function by applying forces over the mechanical joints to assist in joint motion, thus reducing the energy required to perform functional activities. Other advantages of the CataPULT identified in comparison with alternative technologies such as robotic devices were that the device involves a cost effective manufacturing process, components are readily available and inexpensive to replace, and the device is extremely portable at home and in the clinical environment. With further development of the device, additional benefits may be possible and to this end, further opportunities for research have been identified.