Design and implementation of patient lifting system for gait rehabilitation

• Main Author: Yuen, Wei Le.
• Other Authors: Hoon Kay Hiang
• Format: Final Year Project
• Language: English
• Published: 2010
• Subjects: DRNTU::Engineering::Mechanical engineering::Assistive technology
• Online Access: http://hdl.handle.net/10356/40091
• Institution: Nanyang Technological University

Body Weight Supported Gait Rehabilitation System 2 (BWSGRS 2) was created based on gait rehabilitation studies that show that Body Weight Supported (BWS) gait rehabilitation on treadmill or overground is effective for patients who suffer from severe lower limb weakness. However, in order for patients to undergo BWS gait rehabilitation, a transfer from sitting to standing position is required. In addition, the patient needs to be in standing position while the harness of the BWS system is attached. This maneuver is usually performed by at least two therapy personnel. Conventionally, at least two therapists are required to lift and support the patient while making sure that his feet are secure and firmly on the ground during the maneuver. This maneuver greatly increases the risk of musculoskeletal injuries in the therapy personnel, as great effort is required to perform the transfer, maintain patient’s standing position and attaching the harness. Therefore, there is a need for a safe, affordable and compatible Patient Transfer System (PTS) for the BWSGRS 2. This Final Year Project report describes the process of designing and implementing a mock-up of the PTS. Background literature was reviewed, sit-to-stand motion studies on healthy and participants with weak lower limb strength were conducted, results were analyzed and synthesized, calculations and conceptual ideas for the PTS were drafted. Subsequently, a mock-up of the PTS will be created as a model for future studies. Finally, possible applications and future developments of the PTS will also be discussed.