Comfort Of Use Research Articles

Classroom Design for Children with an Autism Spectrum

In modern societies, the group of people with dysfunctions related to the spectrum of autism is becoming increasingly numerous. A specialized approach to space design for this group of people is becoming a necessity. Particular attention should be paid to the rooms where children with autism spectrum disorders spend a lot of time - to classrooms. The arrangement of space can strongly influence their behavior. Special attention must be paid to the size and proportions of the room, the sense of order in space, proper sunshine, shading and ventilation, as well as to the reduction of detail, the excess of which leads to aggression and lack of concentration in this group of people. Another important element is the proper furnishing of the room, clearly informing about its purpose, or creation of clear zones.However, we are not always able (for procedural and financial reasons) to build complex daycare centers or schools for autistic people, and adaptations of existing rooms impose many limitations. However, despite this, at Tadeusz Kościuszko Primary School No. 11 with Integration Classes in Katowice, an original attempt was made to implement the above assumptions. It includes space zoning, floor differentiation, appropriate lighting, adequate equipment with the elements that are not typical for regular classrooms, as well as color markings and pictograms on the walls, which will be presented in more detail below. All this will undoubtedly lead to better comfort of use.

Process Qualification of the Individualization of Protective Clothing Design Based on 3D Scanning Technique

The process of individualizing personal protective equipment (PPE) is aimed at achievingoptimal fit to the user’s body, thus maximizing comfort, especially when PPE is applied in critical conditions. The aim of the research was to confirm the possibility of implementing PPE in rea industrial conditions and to estimate the comfort of use in real conditions of use. In order to perform the last stage of the personalization procedure for firefighter suits, process qualification was carried out in an industrial environment, and the firefighter’s PPE fabricated was validated under real conditions of firefighters’ activities. The effect of implementation of the individualization procedure confirmed optimal fitting of the PPE to the individual user’s body and allowed for improvement of the comfort of use.

ОБОСНОВАНИЕ ПРИМЕНЕНИЯ ТЕПЛОВОЙ ПОДГОТОВКИ НА АВТОМОБИЛЯХ В РАЗНЫХ КЛИМАТИЧЕСКИХ ЗОНАХ

The paper presents the rationale for the feasibility of using an autonomous liquid heater for thermal preparation of the engine in different climatic zones. A comparison is made of operating costs when using an autonomous liquid heater and a car alarm with the function of maintaining the optimum temperature. Several large settlements of the Tyumen region were selected for a comparative calculation. Using climatic portals, the average number of cold days over three years was selected and the number of cold engine starts in each city was determined. The objects of the study were Toyota Land Cruiser Prado cars with different power plants: diesel and gasoline. The calculation does not consider the effect of the autonomous heater on the comfort of use and the technical condition of the vehicle, only the current fuel costs during daily operation are taken into account. In the course of the calculations, it was found that at ambient temperatures up to -150C for a gasoline car and -170C for a diesel car, the use of a pre-starting autonomous liquid heater is not economically viable. The required number of days is also determined to obtain economic benefits from the pre-heater, taking into account the cost of its installation on cars with gasoline and diesel engines. Using the results of the study, it can be concluded that not in all settlements it is advisable to install preheaters. The severity of the climate in some cities does not pose a big threat to a guaranteed cold engine start and may be limited only by using the remote engine start function built into the security system.

3D Design of Clothing in Medical Applications

Abstract In this paper, we present a new methodology of clothing engineering construction for the medical application. Project “BIOAKOD” intends to propose clothing solutions for elderly people with dermatological defects. This purpose requires a particular concept of clothing because of the additional functionality expected in the clothing. It means that the proposed clothing needs to cover a human body in an aesthetic way and gives comfort of use it, and it should also bring an adding value in health treatment of people with dermatosis (psoriasis)..

Application analysis of efficient heat dissipation of electronic equipment based on flexible nanocomposites

• The efficient cooling of electronic device was designed and analyzed. • A flexible ultra-high thermal conductivity nanocomposites material used. • Model analysis, simulation and experiment proved the effectiveness. The efficient heat dissipation of electronic equipment is very important, its heat dissipation performance directly determines the life of the equipment itself. A hand-held electronic communications equipment, when used in surface temperature is exorbitant, need to heat dissipation equipment efficiently, to ensure that the use of comfort in the handheld. In accordance with this requirement, this article presents a flexible composite material based on nano-efficient cooling methods that can keep the layout, through the improvement of internal thermal path, it can achieve the effective heat dissipation. The network thermal resistance method is used to analyze the heat transfer in the equipment, and the thermal analysis of the local thermal resistance is carried out. At the same time, through the modeling of electronic equipment and the analysis of finite elements, the temperature drop of the equipment after improvement is accurately judged. Finally, the device experimental performance comparison before and after the optimization of the standby mode and working mode is verified. The results show that the optimized equipment heat source temperature can be reduced by up to 8.5°C, the surface temperature of the equipment can be reduced by about 5°C~7°C, and the final control equipment in the steady standby state of the temperature of about 39±0.5°C, to ensure the comfort of use, and also improved the service life of the equipment. The efficient thermal design of electronic equipment based on flexible nanocomposites can provide a convenient and reliable cooling solution for high-heat flow density devices.

Design and evaluation of a simple and affordable transfer assistive device for wheelchair users in the context of developing country

Purpose The present study aimed at designing a simple, affordable, yet safe transfer assistive device (TAD) for lower limb impaired individuals in the context of a developing country. Methods The preliminary study carried out, comprising a pilot survey with the involvement of stakeholder’s views to design and develop the proposed device that had a unique feature. To evaluate the present TAD in terms of user’s comfort of use and level of physical strain, subjects including 19 healthy students serving as “patients” have participated in a laboratory-simulated setting. Data was collected based on user’s physiologic effort and rate of perceived exertion using Heart rate monitoring device (Polar RS 400 heart taster) and Borg’s scale, respectively. Results The data were analysed statistically and revealed that the regression equation for predicting the RPE from HR showed of the variance in RPE was predictable from the level of HR. The ANOVA significance also indicates the model is statistically significant with (p < 0.013). Similarly, the estimated strain level has computed in terms of %HRR, and the physical strain averaged over the subjects who performed the task (n = 19) was expressed in terms of (mean ± SD) %HRR were (%) which was a relatively smaller strain level as compared to the previous research report. Conclusion The present device found a potentially affordable solution for reducing fatigue and strain level that might develop during unassisted transfer. Similarly, the unique feature of the armpit support has contributed to dynamic contact force reduction and as double safety support. Implications for rehabilitation The use of transfer assistive device is associated with increased patient satisfaction and privacy of users Improved patient adherence and cooperation with caregivers in rehabilitation center. Encourages the rehabilitation settings to use transfer assistive devices instead of manual handling there by increase the recovery period.

Intellectual system of monitoring and analysis of sugar in human organism

Standard methods of checking and monitoring the amount of sugar in the blood do not allow to fully see the results, do not facilitate the study, and the reliability and accuracy. During the collection of information, no devices were found that contain a high-quality system with reliability (reliability), in reasonable terms (speed), and comfort of use (convenience). The principles of analysis and monitoring of human blood sugar were considered in the work. Tables of normal glucose values for different age groups have been identified, including aspects of the duration of food intake and disease status. According to this information, an algorithm was formed to determine the normal level of human blood sugar, in relation to the characteristics that the user adds at the beginning of the program. In addition, the main aspects of monitoring are considered, which allows to speed up the system. Accordingly, an optimized data model was developed to store information about the user's input and the main data types of its variables were identified. To simplify, speed up and increase reliability, an algorithm for writing and reading element variables was implemented. A comparative analysis of the speed of writing and reading with the corresponding program "MedM Diabets". Which clearly shows the results of using the algorithm to optimize the program. The concept of a user-friendly interface allows a person to start using the software without any problems. Additional information screens are used to inform the user in more detail. And the use of principles and algorithms to simplify data handling ensures optimization of the entire system. At the same time, the concept of a simple interface, which consists of only three main components, improves its speed and reliability.

Intelligent Internet of Things System for Smart Home Optimal Convection

The fusion of Internet of Things (IoTs) and computational intelligence makes it possible to increase energetic efficiency of our homes. Connected devices can be optimally adjusted to the needs of a family. In this article, we present our developed IoT convection installation for a small house with the developed remote platform control system. The control module is gartering readings from sensors and information from users about conditions in the house and, by the use of computational intelligence, optimizes parameters to adjust the developed IoT convection system for better comfort of a family. We have done a full convection installation, both in practical and theoretical models, together with remote control system and the proposed security model. Optimization results show increased comfort of use with lower changes in the temperature inside. The system after optimization shows significant improvement in lower changes of the temperature and lower consumption.

Operational Qualification of the Individualisation of Protective Clothing Design Based on the 3D Scanning Technique

The object of the publication is to present the validation process stage (operational qualification) of developed assumptions for customised clothing manufactured in industrial conditions. 12 special clothes were made and adjusted to the individual dimensions of firefighters’ silhouettes obtained in the 3D scanning process as well as 12 special clothes adjusted to selected size subgroups after the 3D scanning process from the same identified group of 12 firefighters. Two batches of clothes having undergone the installation qualification were submitted for testing in real conditions (operational qualification). Then, on the basis of data collected from the ongoing functional tests, a batch of six sets of individualised special clothing for the Fire Service was produced in industrial conditions (changing the manufacturer and model of the clothing). A positive result of validation (operational qualification) of this batch of clothing in functional tests conducted in real conditions will allow its introduction to industry through training in production plants and procedures of individualisation of advanced protective clothing design for people working in environments with a high degree of risk to health and life. The individualisation of protective clothing design, through a better fit of the size of the clothing to the body of the user, will significantly affect the comfort of use, ergonomics of the clothing, and the safety of the user.

Improvement in the quality of life of patients with rhododendrol-induced leukoderma after camouflaging with dihydroxyacetone cream.

Improvement in the quality of life of patients with rhododendrol-induced leukoderma after camouflaging with dihydroxyacetone cream.

Seizure detection at home: Do devices on the market match the needs of people living with epilepsy and theircaregivers?

In patients with epilepsy, the potential to prevent seizure-related injuries and to improve the unreliability of seizure self-report have fostered the development and marketing of numerous seizure detection devices for home use. Understanding the requirements of users (patients and caregivers) is essential to improve adherence and mitigate barriers to the long-term use of such devices. Here we reviewed the evidence on the needs and preferences of users and provided an overview of currently marketed devices for seizure detection (medically approved or with published evidence for their performance). We then compared devices with known needs. Seizure-detection devices are expected to improve safety and clinical and self-management, and to provide reassurance to users. Key factors affecting a device's usability relate to its design (attractive appearance, low visibility, low intrusiveness), comfort of use, confidentiality of recorded data, and timely support from both technical and clinical ends. High detection sensitivity and low false alarm rates are paramount. Currently marketed devices are focused primarily on the recording of non-electroencephalography (EEG) signals associated with tonic-clonic seizures, whereas the detection of focal seizures without major motor features remains a clear evidence gap. Moreover, there is paucity of evidence coming from real-life settings. A joint effort of clinical and nonclinical experts, patients, and caregivers is required to ensure an optimal level of acceptability and usability, which are key aspects for a successful continuous monitoring aimed at seizure detection at home.

Properties of thin coatings deposited by physical vapour deposition on safety helmets

This article presents research on a new solution for industrial helmets improving mechanical and physical properties (temperature resistance and reflection of infrared radiation). The application of known technology in a new personal protective equipment area has been described in order to increase their level of safety and comfort of use. In this work we have studied the effect of a selected magnetron sputtering coating method onto polymer substrates, such as acrylonitrile–butadiene–styrene copolymer, polycarbonate, polyethylene, high-density polyethylene, polyamide, glass and silicon. Coatings made of copper, aluminium, TiN and TiAl were used. This work aims at identifying the best substrates for coating deposition improving the quality of protective helmets. On the basis of the obtained results, it can be stated that the TiN coating provides the best protection from infrared radiation and the best scratch resistance.

Functional parameters, wrist posture deviations and comfort: A comparison between a computer mouse and a touch pen as input devices.

Performing common computer tasks such as pointing, clicking, and dragging requires repetitive movements that cause musculoskeletal disorders in the wrists and hands. Given the growing use of touch screens and touch pens, further studies on the ergonomics of these devices are needed. This study aimed to compare a touch pen and an ordinary computer mouse in terms of movement time, error rate, wrist posture, and comfort of use. Performance parameters (movement time and error rate), wrist postures, and comfort when using a mouse and a touch pen were measured based on ISO 9241-9 standard with the help of 27 participants. For data analysis, paired t test was performed using SPSS version 22. Using the touch pen resulted in better performance parameters than using the mouse (p < 0.05). Wrist extension and flexion were lower when performing the task with the computer mouse than with the touch pen (p < 0.05). When using the touch pen to perform the task, ulnar deviation and radial deviation were lower (p < 0.05). The overall comfort was higher when using the mouse than the touch pen. Our results showed that the touch pen had better performance parameters than the ordinary mouse and also resulted in lower ulnar and radial deviations. Given the impact of habit and proficiency on users' comfort in using input devices, it is reasonable to expect users becoming more comfortable by using touch pens on the long term.

Use of a new transanal irrigation device for bowel disorder management by patients familiar with the irrigation technique: a prospective, interventional, multicenter pilot study

BackgroundThe aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of transanal irrigation (TAI) with a new medical device incorporating an electric pump, the IryPump®R Set.MethodsAn interventional, prospective, open-label, non-comparative, multicenter pilot study on TAI was conducted at three French university hospitals. Patients with experience of TAI were enrolled for a 1-month period during which 5 consecutive TAIs were performed using the IryPump®R Set (B.Braun Melsungen AG Melsungen, Germany). The study’s primary efficacy criterion was successful TAI, defined as (i) use of the patient’s usual irrigation volume of water, (ii) stool evacuation, and (iii) the absence of leakage between TAIs. The first two TAIs were not taken into account in the main analysis. The secondary outcome measures were device acceptability, bowel dysfunction scores, tolerability, and safety.ResultsFifteen patients were included between November 2016 and May 2017, and 14 were assessed in the main analysis. The TAI success rate was 72.4% (21 out of 29 procedures). The bowel dysfunction scores at the end of the study did not differ significantly from those recorded on inclusion. A high proportion of patients (> 70%) reported that TAI was feasible with the new medical device. There were no serious adverse events or device-related adverse events. At the end of the study, 50% of the participants were willing to consider further use of the new device.ConclusionsIn patients familiar with TAI, using a new medical device incorporating an electric pump was feasible. Levels of patient satisfaction were high, especially with regard to comfort of use and a feeling of security during TAI.

State of the eye health system in the Pacific: is medical technology available and used by mid-level eye care workers?

The aim of this study is to describe the availability, use and comfort with ophthalmic equipment and medications by mid-level eye care workers in Papua New Guinea and Pacific Island countries and territories as indicators of the state of eye care in the Pacific. Health information system data, from a workforce support program to Pacific mid-level eye care workers, were analysed for availability and comfort with use of ophthalmic equipment and topical medications. For refraction equipment, access was excellent (98% for retinoscopes and trial lenses) 'very frequent use' range was 42-74% and 'high comfort of use' range was 54-86%. Equipment for ocular health assessment is widely available (slit lamps 67%), with high comfort levels (78-100% 'very comfortable'). Over 70% of respondents have access to topical diagnostic medications, 98% have access to at least one type of antibiotic drops and 63% have access to at least one topical corticosteroid. Overall, trained mid-level eye care workers in the Pacific seem well equipped for ocular health and refractive assessments. Comfort levels are encouraging, but also highlight areas for continuing professional development. Access to ophthalmic medications appears acceptable in the region for low morbidity anterior segment conditions.

Połączenie nadtlenku benzoilu i klindamycyny w miejscowej terapii trądziku — rozważania praktyczne

In everyday practice of a dermatologist for years there has been a steady increase of patients struggling with skin disorders in the course of acne vulgaris from its mild to medium intensification. Thus the role of an effective therapy, fast, mild, and with the least side effects possible, is crucially important. The solution is a topical combined treatment which additionally allows for a comfort of use which in turn guarantees so very important good patient-doctor cooperation. The choice of the type of preparation becomes the basic dilemma. It is the reason behind numerous researches on groups diversified in terms of patients’ age, background, residence, severity of the dermatosis and its cause. Thanks to the gathered information concerning the clinical response to topical application of substances such as, among others, antibiotics, benzoyl superoxide or adapalene in both monotherapy and combined treatment, and comparing combined preparations available on the market, pointing to the most suitable one presents far less difficulty. The data presented by the analyzed literature shows, primarily, the superiority of introducing combined treatment over singular substances. The authors agree on the benefits of applying combined preparations containing clindamycin and benzoyl superoxide in concentration of 5% or 3%, which everyday application guarantees therapy’s safety and the proper choice of a medium minimizes side effects, in turn helping with maintaining skin being treated. Better tolerance combined with effectiveness in case of patients with especially sensitive skin should characterize 3% form and it is the one recommended. Complying with the described methods of treatment directly influences the satisfaction of both patients and doctors.

In Situ Electrospinning Wound Healing Films Composed of Zein and Clove Essential Oil

AbstractElectrospun fibrous membranes have the potential to be effective wound dressings for promoting wound healing. However, the fabrication and application of the common electrospun fibrous wound dressings are usually complicated and separated. Here, electrospun zein/clove essential oil (CEO) fibrous membranes are fabricated and applied as a potential wound dressing through in situ electrospinning process by a portable electrospinning device. The in situ electrospinning process can directly electrospin zein/CEO membranes onto a wound site to cover the wound well and improve the convenience and comfort in use. The as‐spun zein/CEO membranes show a porous structure and exhibit higher gas permeability at 168.2 ± 43.3 mm s−1, with superhydrophilicity to absorb the wound exudate and good biocompatibility as well as antibacterial effects to protect from infection. Moreover, the mice wound model study suggests that in situ electrospun zein/CEO promotes the wound healing process.

Process modelling of seasonal hot water supply heliosystem

A variant of the problem statement is proposed to develop an algorithm for calculating a solar collector of hot water supply for an individual dwelling. The purpose of the calculations is to determine the approximate values of the main characteristics of the heliosystem of hot water supply, which affect the technical and economic indicators of the system and determine the operating mode of the system, its comfort in use and maintenance.

Integrated Optical Fiber Force Myography Sensor as Pervasive Predictor of Hand Postures.

Force myography (FMG) is an appealing alternative to traditional electromyography in biomedical applications, mainly due to its simpler signal pattern and immunity to electrical interference. Most FMG sensors, however, send data to a computer for further processing, which reduces the user mobility and, thus, the chances for practical application. In this sense, this work proposes to remodel a typical optical fiber FMG sensor with smaller portable components. Moreover, all data acquisition and processing routines were migrated to a Raspberry Pi 3 Model B microprocessor, ensuring the comfort of use and portability. The sensor was successfully demonstrated for 2 input channels and 9 postures classification with an average precision and accuracy of ~99.5% and ~99.8%, respectively, using a feedforward artificial neural network of 2 hidden layers and a competitive output layer.

Enzimska obrada vunenih tkanina sa lipazom i poboljšanje nekih svojstava vunenih tkanina

The enzymatic treatment of textiles significantly improves some of their physicochemical properties as well as increases their aesthetic values and comfort of use. Enzymes can be used in order to develop environmentally friendly processes by reducing the concentration of chemical agents, water and energy consumption. Wool fabrics were pretreated with hydrogen peroxide in the presence of stabiliser imino disuccinic acid sodium salt (IDAS). The eff ECT of after-treatment of the pre-oxidised wool fabric with commercially produced lipase enzyme on its dyeability with acid dyes, as well as on some of its physico-mechanical properties, was assessed. Wool fabrics treated with hydrogen peroxide / imino disuccinic acid sodium salt / lipase enzyme exhibit improved wettability and, hence, dyeability with acid dyes, as well as enhanced resistance to felting shrinkage and pilling.