Design Of Assistive Devices Research Articles

Insights into muscle metabolic energetics: Modelling muscle-tendon mechanics and metabolic rates during walking across speeds.

The metabolic energy rate of individual muscles is impossible to measure without invasive procedures. Prior studies have produced models to predict metabolic rates based on experimental observations of isolated muscle contraction from various species. Such models can provide reliable predictions of metabolic rates in humans if muscle properties and control are accurately modeled. This study aimed to examine how muscle-tendon model individualization and metabolic energy models influenced estimation of muscle-tendon states and time-series metabolic rates, to evaluate the agreement with empirical data, and to provide predictions of the metabolic rate of muscle groups and gait phases across walking speeds. Three-dimensional musculoskeletal simulations with prescribed kinematics and dynamics were performed. An optimal control formulation was used to compute muscle-tendon states with four levels of individualization, ranging from a scaled generic model and muscle controls based on minimal activations, inclusion of calibrated muscle passive forces, personalization of Achilles and quadriceps tendon stiffnesses, to finally informing muscle controls with electromyography. We computed metabolic rates based on existing models. Simulations with calibrated passive forces and personalized tendon stiffness most accurately estimate muscle excitations and fiber lengths. Interestingly, the inclusion of electromyography did not improve our estimates. The whole-body average metabolic cost was better estimated with a subset of metabolic energy models. We estimated metabolic rate peaks near early stance, pre-swing, and initial swing at all walking speeds. Plantarflexors accounted for the highest cost among muscle groups at the preferred speed and were similar to the cost of hip adductors and abductors combined. Also, the swing phase accounted for slightly more than one-quarter of the total cost in a gait cycle, and its relative cost decreased with walking speed. Our prediction might inform the design of assistive devices and rehabilitation treatment. The code and experimental data are available online.

EchoSee: An Assistive Mobile Application for Real-Time 3D Environment Reconstruction and Sonification Supporting Enhanced Navigation for People with Vision Impairments.

Improving the quality of life for people with vision impairments has been an important goal in the research and design of assistive devices for several decades. This paper seeks to further that goal by introducing a novel assistive technology platform that leverages real-time 3D spatial audio to promote safe and efficient navigation for people who are blind or visually impaired (PVI). The presented platform, EchoSee, uses modern 3D scanning technology on a mobile device to construct a live, digital 3D map of a user's environment as they move about their surroundings. Spatialized, virtual audio sources (i.e., virtual speakers) are dynamically placed within the digital 3D scan of the world, providing the navigator with a real-time 3D stereo audio "soundscape." The digital 3D map, and its resultant soundscape, are continuously updated as the user moves about their environment. The generated soundscape is played back through headphones connected to the navigator's device. This paper details (1) the underlying technical components and how they were integrated to produce the mobile application that generates a dynamic soundscape on a consumer mobile device, (2) a methodology for analyzing navigation performance with the application, (3) the design and execution of a user study investigating the effectiveness of the presented system, and (4) a discussion of the results of that study along with a proposed future study and possible improvements. Altogether, this paper presents a novel software platform aimed at assisting individuals with vision impairments to navigate and understand spaces safely, efficiently, and independently and the results of a feasibility study analyzing the viability of the approach.

Design of Assistive Device For Blind People Based on Arduino Nano With Global Positioning System (GPS) Tracker

Design of Assistive Device For Blind People Based on Arduino Nano With Global Positioning System (GPS) Tracker

Improving communication and promoting social inclusion for hearing-impaired users: Usability evaluation and design recommendations for assistive mobile applications.

This study examines the usability of communication-assistive applications for hearing-impaired users, with a focus on enhancing user experience and promoting social inclusion. Although such applications have been developed and evaluated previously, interface designs that consider the intimacy needs of hearing-impaired users remain under-explored. We performed a comprehensive usability evaluation employing a mixed-method approach, which involved hearing-impaired individuals as well as field experts. The findings revealed areas for improvement in the design, validated the feasibility of implementing these applications, and emphasized the importance of incorporating the unique needs and preferences of hearing-impaired users. Furthermore, this paper discusses the importance of introducing guidelines and evaluation scales for the "Design for Emotion and Life Knowledge" levels to facilitate smooth and effective human-computer interactions. Such measures will promote the development of intelligent assistive technologies that reflect the qualitative needs of people with disabilities and contribute to social rights for hearing-impaired users. With the growing demands of artificial-intelligence-powered assistive technologies, the inclusion of individuals with disabilities in the design and research process is anticipated to increase. In future, studies should be conducted to blend the culturally shared experiences and emotional bonds expressed by users (having mild-to-severe hearing impairment) with the design and development process of assistive devices or services.

Analysis and Optimization of Fluid Flow on the Surface of the Prototype Body of Electrical Vehicle Ganesha Diffabilities Using Solidworks Software

Purpose: The aerodynamic aspect is an aspect that takes into account a force caused by the fluid flow shown by the Coefficient of Drag value. This will affect the optimization of performance and energy consumption used. This study aims to modify the standard design of Electrical Ganesha Diffabilities so that a design with a low Coefficient of Drag value considers ergonomic parameters and user comfort to follow the community of people with disabilities. Theoretical Framework: The main theoretical foundation is based on the laws of aerodynamics, which analyze the movement of air around solid objects and its effect on vehicle performance, with a specific emphasis on minimizing drag. The research employs computational fluid dynamics (CFD), a branch of fluid flows. Models and simulations in Solidworks offer a digital environment for improving design aspects to increase aerodynamic efficiency. This theoretical approach focuses on two main objectives: reducing the drag coefficient (CD), which measures resistance caused by shape and surface characteristics, and applying these findings to achieve practical energy savings and enhance vehicle operation specifically designed for individuals with disabilities. The integration of aerodynamic theory and practical application is essential for solving the specific transportation requirements emphasized in the introduction. This alignment with legislation and social objectives aims to provide improved support for the impaired community. Design/Methodology/Approach: This is a numerical method with an R2D2 research model (Reflective, Recursive, Design, and Development) using the 2020 version of Solidworks Software. Solidworks software is known for software that has speed and accuracy in analyzing. Findings: The results of the fluid flow analysis simulation showed that the design of the modified Electrical Ganesha diffabilities vehicle had a Coefficient of Drag value of 0.353 or 35% lower than the standard vehicle value of 0.547. Through expert assessment, the modified design of Electrical Ganesha Diffabilities has received an assessment of 98% with excellent qualifications. Research, Practical & Social implications: The research contributes to the topic of aerodynamic for disability-friendly vehicles, providing a basis for future academic investigations into accessible transportation options. Essentially, the results can immediately impact the development of electric cars that are both more energy-efficient and performance-optimized for those with impairments. This would lead to lower running expenses and improved user-friendliness. From a social perspective, this research emphasizes a dedication to inclusiveness and accessibility, which has the potential to enhance the ability of impaired persons to move around and ultimately enhance their overall well-being. Additionally, it increases awareness among policymakers and manufactures of the significance of incorporating aerodynamic efficiency into the design of assistive devices, hence fostering wider social acceptance and support for this advancement. Originality/Value: The uniqueness and significance of this work stem from its innovative strategy of combining aerodynamic principles with the development of electric cars particularly tailored for those with disabilities-a relatively unexplored field in transportation research. This research examines the E-GADIS vehicle and fills the gap in the current literature on accessible transportation options.

The ankle dorsiflexion kinetics demand to increase swing phase foot-ground clearance: implications for assistive device design and energy demands

BackgroundThe ankle is usually highly effective in modulating the swing foot’s trajectory to ensure safe ground clearance but there are few reports of ankle kinetics and mechanical energy exchange during the gait cycle swing phase. Previous work has investigated ankle swing mechanics during normal walking but with developments in devices providing dorsiflexion assistance, it is now essential to understand the minimal kinetic requirements for increasing ankle dorsiflexion, particularly for devices employing energy harvesting or utilizing lighter and lower power energy sources or actuators.MethodsUsing a real-time treadmill-walking biofeedback technique, swing phase ankle dorsiflexion was experimentally controlled to increase foot-ground clearance by 4 cm achieved via increased ankle dorsiflexion. Swing phase ankle moments and dorsiflexor muscle forces were estimated using AnyBody modeling system. It was hypothesized that increasing foot-ground clearance by 4 cm, employing only the ankle joint, would require significantly higher dorsiflexion moments and muscle forces than a normal walking control condition.ResultsResults did not confirm significantly increased ankle moments with augmented dorsiflexion, with 0.02 N.m/kg at toe-off reducing to zero by the end of swing. Tibialis Anterior muscle force incremented significantly from 2 to 4 N/kg after toe-off, due to coactivation with the Soleus. To ensure an additional 4 cm mid swing foot-ground clearance, an estimated additional 0.003 Joules/kg is required to be released immediately after toe-off.ConclusionThis study highlights the interplay between ankle moments, muscle forces, and energy demands during swing phase ankle dorsiflexion, offering insights for the design of ankle assistive technologies. External devices do not need to deliver significantly greater ankle moments to increase ankle dorsiflexion but, they should offer higher mechanical power to provide rapid bursts of energy to facilitate quick dorsiflexion transitions before reaching Minimum Foot Clearance event. Additionally, for ankle-related bio-inspired devices incorporating artificial muscles or humanoid robots that aim to replicate natural ankle biomechanics, the inclusion of supplementary Tibialis Anterior forces is crucial due to Tibialis Anterior and Soleus co-activation. These design strategies ensures that ankle assistive technologies are both effective and aligned with the biomechanical realities of human movement.

Numerical Analysis of the Plantar Pressure Points during the Stance Phases for the Design of a 3D-Printable Patient-Specific Insole

The study of the phenomena occurring in the plantar region is remarkably intriguing, especially when performing a normal gait cycle where the foot is under loading conditions. The effects presented in the foot while walking provide relevant indicators regarding clinical means for enhancing regular performance or rehabilitation therapies. Nevertheless, more than traditional methods are needed to biomechanically evaluate foot structural conditions, leading to an incomplete database for determining the patient’s needs so that advanced methodologies provide detailed medical assessment. Therefore, it is necessary to employ technological engineering tools to optimize biomechanical plantar pressure evaluations to reach suitable personalized treatments. This research initially evaluated numerically the pressure points in the foot sole region in each one of the five stance phases in a normal gait cycle. Medical imaging techniques were utilized to construct an anatomically accurate biomodel of the soft tissues of the right foot. The Finite Element Method was employed to predict peak plantar pressure in barefoot conditions for all stance phases; results from this case study presented a close alignment with gait experimental testing implemented to analyze the feasibility and validation of all mechanical considerations for the numerical analyses. Hence, having a solid foundation in the biomechanical behavior from the first case study close estimates, a 3D-printable patient-specific insole was designed and numerically analyzed to observe the mechanical response in the plantar critical zones utilizing a personalized orthotic device. Results from the second case study notably demonstrated a crucial decrement in excessive pressure values. Employing morphological customization orthopedics modeling combined with 3D-printable materials is revolutionizing assistive device design and fabrication techniques. The fundamental contribution of this research relies on deepening the knowledge of foot biomechanics from an interdisciplinary approach by numerically analyzing pressure distribution in critical regions for all five stances phases; thus, based on the methods employed, the results obtained contribute to the advances of patient-specific foot orthopedics.

An Ergonomics Analysis of Archers through Motion Tracking to Prevent Injuries and Improve Performance.

Archery ranks among the sports with a high incidence of upper extremity injuries, particularly affecting the drawing shoulder and elbow, as well as inducing stress on the lower back. This study seeks to bridge the gap by integrating real-time human motion with biomechanical software to enhance the ergonomics of archers. Thirteen participants were involved in four tasks, using different bows with varied draw weights and shooting distances. Through the application of advanced integrative technology, this study highlights the distinct postures adopted by both males and females, which indicate the biomechanical differences between genders. Additionally, an analysis of the correlation between exposed spinal forces and these adopted postures provides insights into injury risk assessment during the key archery movements. The findings of this study have the potential to significantly enhance the application of training methodologies and the design of assistive devices. These improvements are geared towards mitigating injury risks and enhancing the overall performance of archers.

Dynamic Model of Lower Limb Motion in the Sagittal Plane during the Gait Cycle

Context: This work presents the development of a dynamic model for human lower limb motion in the sagittal plane during the gait cycle. The primary objective of this model is to serve as a powerful tool for the design of rehabilitation and assistive devices, such as exoskeletons, prostheses, and orthoses. It achieves this by facilitating the estimation of joint torques, the detailed analysis of kinematic variables, optimal actuator selection, and the exploration of advanced control techniques. Method: The dynamic model consists of two primary components: (1) the plant model and (2) a closed-loop controller. The plant model represents the forward dynamics of human gait and is based on a multi-mass pendulum composed of three segments of the lower limb (thigh, lower leg, and foot) and three joints (hip, knee, and ankle). It is analyzed using the Euler-Lagrange formulation and the nonlinear second-order differential equations are implemented in MATLAB’s Simulink. To reproduce reference human gait trajectories and simulate the functioning of the neuromusculoskeletal system and the central nervous system, a closed-loop PID controller is incorporated into the plant model. It is noteworthy that the scope of this dynamic model is specifically confined to the sagittal plane. Results: The dynamic model is evaluated in terms of angular displacement tracking using the relative maximum error (RME) and the root mean square error (RMSE) for reference trajectories of healthy adult male human gait as reported in the literature. The model demonstrates tracking with errors below 2.2 [°] in magnitude and 3,5% for all three considered segments (thigh, lower leg, and foot). Conclusions: The quantitative results show that the dynamic model developed in this work is reliable and allows for a precise reproduction of human gait trajectories.

Development of Assistive Devices for Eye Drop Administration in Patients with Cerebral Palsy

Background:Cerebral Palsy is a non-progressive neurological disorder that affects movement, posture, and muscle coordination, caused by damage to the developing brain. It is one of the most common motor disabilities in childhood, with significant implications for an individual's physical and functional abilities. The severe impact on fine motor control in Cerebral Palsy patients is often most evident when performing actions where precision and accuracy are needed such as applying eye drops. This work addresses the design, development, and deployment of assistive devices for fine motor control of objects.
 Methods:Using 3D modeling and printing, three prototypes were created and assessed for their efficacy in assisting patients with eye drop administration based on the needs and abilities of the individual, considering factors such as ease of use, affordability, and adaptability to different environments. After evaluation, changes were made to each prototype in order to better adapt the design according to the feedback received.
 Results:Three final products were presented for patient review. Two of these addressed deficiencies of eye drop accuracy and the other fine motor control and bottle manipulation. Patients noted in their final evaluation of the assistive devices improvement in ability to manipulate eye drop bottles as well as better ability to aim the eye dropper for application in comparison to previous methods of application.
 Conclusion and Impact:By understanding the challenges faced by the individual and evaluating the need for assistive devices, the fine motor challenges associated with eye drop administration due to cerebral palsy were addressed and three valuable products were created that improved patient autonomy and quality of life. Additionally, these devices could be useful for patients with a variety of motor limitations, enabling self-sufficiency while improving ease and accuracy of administration and minimizing waste.

Design of auto adjustable CPR assistive device for non-expertise usability scenarios

The proposal introduces a frugal device designed to optimize cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) procedures, offering a promising solution to enhance emergency medical care. In CPR, maintaining adequate chest compressions is crucial for sustaining blood circulation and oxygen supply to vital organs until professional medical help arrives. The proposed device addresses this challenge by continuously monitoring the pressure of chest compressions. When the pressure exceeds a preset threshold, the device automatically triggers the deflation of an airbag, thereby damping excess pressure and ensuring compression levels remain within the optimal range. This innovative approach not only improves the effectiveness of CPR delivery but also mitigates the risk of injury to the patient, as excessive compression force can cause rib fractures or other complications. By providing real-time feedback and assistance during CPR, the device has the potential to enhance the quality of care delivered by both trained professionals and lay rescuers, ultimately improving patient outcomes in emergency situations. Overall, the development of this frugal device represents a significant advancement in emergency medical technology,offering a cost- effective and accessible solution to optimize CPR procedures and save lives.

Technologies of care and the engineering imaginary: Two approaches to assistive device design for the Global South.

Assistive devices serve as vectors for the ideals, judgments, and goals that their society of origin has towards people with disabilities. For some Ugandan inventors and prosthetists, familiarity with sociocultural norms and consistent feedback allow them to design prosthetic limbs as technologies of care that specifically meet the needs of Ugandans using these devices. In contrast, many biomedical engineers living in the United States rely on what I call the "engineering imaginary" to produce universalized forms of assistive technology intended for people living in an essentialized Global South. Drawing on research with engineers, prosthetists, and people living with limb loss in Uganda and the United States, I investigate the social and cultural aspects of prosthetic limb design and argue that there is a cross-cultural mismatch about what a prosthetic device does and what kinds of limbs it should fit. This mismatch becomes inscribed in the prosthetic device itself.

Mechanics of the human foot during walking on different slopes.

When humans walk on slopes, the ankle, knee, and hip joints modulate their mechanical work to accommodate the mechanical demands. Yet, it is unclear if the foot modulates its work output during uphill and downhill walking. Therefore, we quantified the mechanical work performed by the foot and its subsections of twelve adults walked on five randomized slopes (-10°, -5°, 0°, +5°, +10°). We estimated the work of distal-to-hindfoot and distal-to-forefoot structures using unified deformable segment analysis and the work of the midtarsal, ankle, knee, and hip joints using a six-degree-of-freedom model. Further, using a geometric model, we estimated the length of the plantar structures crossing the longitudinal arch while accounting for the first metatarsophalangeal wrapping length. We hypothesized that compared to level walking, downhill walking would increase negative and net-negative work magnitude, particularly at the early stance phase, and uphill walking would increase the positive work, particularly at the mid-to-late stance phase. We found that downhill walking increased the magnitude of the foot's negative and net-negative work, especially during early stance, highlighting its capacity to absorb impacts when locomotion demands excessive energy dissipation. Notably, the foot maintained its net dissipative behavior between slopes; however, the ankle, knee, and hip shifted from net energy dissipation to net energy generation when changing from downhill to uphill. Such results indicate that humans rely more on joints proximal to the foot to modulate the body's total mechanical energy. Uphill walking increased midtarsal's positive and distal-to-forefoot negative work in near-equal amounts. That coincided with the prolonged lengthening and delayed shortening of the plantar structures, resembling a spring-like function that possibly assists the energetic demands of locomotion during mid-to-late stance. These results broaden our understanding of the foot's mechanical function relative to the leg's joints and could inspire the design of wearable assistive devices that improve walking capacity.

Joint kinematic and kinetic responses to added mass on the lower extremities during running

AimWe analyzed the biomechanical response (joint angles, moments, and powers) to running with added leg mass. These data may help guide the design of wearable locomotor assistive devices (i.e., exoskeletons), which are becoming more prevalent. Methods15 participants (7 females, 8 males) completed treadmill running trials (3m•s−1) normally and with lead mass (300–1350 g) attached to the thigh, shank, or foot, bilaterally. We quantified the lower limb biomechanics combining motion capture and ground reaction force data using standard inverse dynamics analysis. ResultsOnly moderate kinematic changes occurred in response to the distal added limb mass. Maximum hip flexion and maximum knee flexion angles during swing phase increased by approximately 9% and 6% respectively for each 1 kg added to each foot. However, adding even small masses made dramatic changes to the joint moments and powers, mostly during the swing phase. For example, adding 1 kg to each foot increased maximum joint moments by as much as 40% (knee extension in late swing) and maximum joint power by as much as 50% (hip generation in late swing). ConclusionLeg joint kinematics were largely conserved in response to adding mass to the legs. Adding mass to the leg distally increased joint power mainly at the knee and hip joints during the swing phase, whereas adding mass proximally mainly affected the ankle joint mechanics during the stance phase. These changes have implications for shoe designs, people who run with added mass on their legs for sport/strength training and for the design of wearable devices.

Elastic ankle exoskeletons influence soleus fascicle dynamics during unexpected perturbations

Spring-based passive ankle exoskeletons have been designed to emulate the energy conservation and power amplification roles of biological muscle–tendon units during locomotion. Yet, it remains unknown if similar assistive devices can serve the other elastomechanical role of biological muscle–tendon units — power attenuation. Here we explored the effect of bilateral passive ankle exoskeletons on neuromuscular control and muscle fascicle dynamics in the ankle plantarflexors during rapid, unexpected vertical perturbations. We recorded muscle activation and soleus fascicle length changes during hopping with and without exoskeleton assistance (0 and 76 Nm rad−1) on elevated platforms (20 cm), which were removed at an unknown time. Our results demonstrate that exoskeleton assistance leads to a reduction in soleus muscle activation, increases in fascicle length change and decreases in muscle forces during perturbed hopping. These changes have competing effects on the mechanics and energetics of lower limb muscles, likely limiting the capacity for series elastic tissues to absorb energy. As we strive towards the design of wearable assistive devices for everyday locomotion, information regarding real-time muscle–tendon behavior may enable tunable assistance that adapts to both the user and the environment.

The role of the ankle plantar flexor muscles in trip recovery during walking: a computational modeling study.

Reactive lower limb muscle function during walking plays a role in balance, stability, and ultimately fall prevention. The objective of this study was to evaluate muscle and joint function used to regain balance after trip-based perturbations during walking. How are lower limb muscles used to recover from external tripping during walking? The dominant legs of 20 healthy adult participants with similar athletic backgrounds were tripped using a split-belt instrumented treadmill. High- and medium-intensity trips were simulated by deceleration of the dominant leg at initial contact from the speed of 1.1 m/s to 0 m/s and back to 1.1 m/s in 0.4 s and 0.8 s, respectively. Lower limb kinematics, kinetics, and muscle forces following perturbations were computed to pre-perturbation values using statistical parametric mapping (SPM) paired t-test. A greater ankle dorsiflexion angle (mean difference: 5.3°), ankle plantar flexion moment (mean difference: ), and gastrocnemius and soleus muscle forces (mean difference: and for GAS and SOL, respectively) were observed post-perturbation step despite the magnitude of the perturbation. This study concludes that adequate timely response of ankle function during a compensatory step is required for a successful recovery after tripping during walking in young healthy adults. Weakness in plantar flexors suggests insufficient ankle moments, which ultimately can result in falls. The findings of this paper can be used as a reference for the joint moments and range of motion needed to recover trips in the design of assistive devices. In addition to that, clinicians can use the estimated values of muscle forces and the pattern of muscle activities to design targeted training in fall prevention among the elderly.

여성장애인 생애주기 보조를 위한 생활밀착형 보조기기 제품개발에 관한 연구

Currently, problems related to the disabled are uniformly implemented around the male disabled without considering the specificity of the female disabled, so basic rights as female disabled people are not sufficiently compensated. The purpose of this study is to propose the design of auxiliary devices related to pregnancy and childcare for women with disabilities who are experiencing various inconveniences. In order to design the assistive device, various needs through a fact-finding survey, case analysis of assistive devices, prior patent research, and interviews. Based on this, we proposed a daily life-fit assistive device design composed of modules capable of implementing various functions.

Analysis of the Development and Application of Sports Assistive Devices for People with Disabilities: A Case Study of Gait Training Machine Usage Experience

研究目的 本文分析一項為障礙者設計的運動輔具在開發應用服務的階段，呈現障礙者的參與如何促成通用設計的落實，提升輔助科技之可用性。透過社區實務操作，探究障礙者運動休閒服務環境建構，期能促進障礙者的社會參與。<br />研究方法 個案研究場域為兩個南部機構：障礙者協會與障礙者體適能中心，透過參與式觀察及焦點團體訪談蒐集田野資料。<br />研究結果 從人類活動輔助科技模式之分析發現，參與式設計更趨近於《身心障礙者權利公約》中通用設計的理想，讓輔具最終設計更符合使用 者需求。跨領域團隊合作實務，則能蒐集專業對話的情境脈絡資訊。訓練機提供促進社會融合的情境，透過利害關係人彼此幫助更接近自立生活的樣態；文化情境與環境可近性是需要改變的運動休閒阻礙因素。<br />研究結論 科技輔具在規劃之初即應導入障礙者參與，以通用設計為基礎，促進社會融合。福利服務規劃需對障礙者的日常生活樣貌有充分的理解，健康服務是預防的概念，應坐落在社區中，空間設計和人力安排亟待重新思考。Purpose This article analyzes the process of developing application services for a sports assistive device designed for people with disabilities. It demonstrates how the participation of individuals with disabilities contributes to the implementation ofuniversal design and enhances the usability of assistive technology. Through practical community initiatives, the study explores the construction of an environment for sports and leisure services for individuals with disabilities, with the goal of promoting their social participation. Method The case study was conducted in two southern organizations: the Disability Association and the Disability Fitness Center. Field data was collected through participatory observation and focus group interviews. Results Analysis of the Human Activity Assistive Technology (HAAT) model revealed that participatory design aligns more closely with the ideals of universal design outLINEd in the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), ensuring that the final design of assistive devices better meets user needs. The Inter professional Practice (IPP) allows for the collection of contextual information through professional dialogue. The training machine provides a context that promotes social inclusion, bringing stakeholders closer to an independent lifestyle through mutual assistance. Cultural context and environmental proximity are identified as factors that need to be addressed to overcome barriers to sports and leisure activities. Conclusion Assistive technology should involve the participation of people with disabilities from the planning stage, with a foundation in universal design to promote social inclusion. Welfare service planning requires a comprehensive understanding of the daily lives of individuals with disabilities, and the concept of health services should be rooted in prevention, situated within the community. There is a need for a reevaluation of space design and human resource allocation.

Aesthetics Model Applied for Older Adults: Daily Life Assistive Device Study

Aims Assistive devices play a vital role in improving the quality of life for older adults. However, the effectiveness and utilization of these devices depend on their functionality, expressiveness, and aesthetics. In this study, we aim to enhance the aesthetics of assistive devices to increase their utilization rates and reduce the psychological distress experienced by older adults. Methods A quantitative and qualitative survey was conducted (a) to create a basic prototype for the conceptual framework of this study to discuss the relationship between the functional, expressive, and aesthetic elements of the auxiliary equipment and (b) to extract and construct aesthetic elements and modes of the auxiliary equipment. Results Asthetics was found to be a major reason for the use or abandonment of assistive devices. This study focuses on “product aesthetics” and considers materials and aesthetics simultaneously. Conclusions The results indicate the design of assistive devices for older adults should incorporate craft aesthetics characteristics.

Perspectives on ankle-foot technology for improving gait performance of children with Cerebral Palsy in daily-life: requirements, needs and wishes

BackgroundAnkle-foot orthoses (AFOs) are extensively used as a primary management method to assist ambulation of children with Cerebral Palsy (CP). However, there are certain barriers that hinder their prescription as well as their use as a mobility device in all kinds of daily-life activities. This exploratory research attempts to further understand the existing limitations of current AFOs to promote a better personalization of new design solutions.MethodsStakeholders’ (professionals in CP and end-users with CP) perspectives on AFO technology were collected by two online surveys. Respondents evaluated the limitations of current assistive solutions and assessment methods, provided their expectations for a new AFO design, and analyzed the importance of different design features and metrics to enrich the gait performance of these patients in daily-life. Quantitative responses were rated and compared with respect to their perceived importance. Qualitative responses were classified into themes by using content analysis.Results130 survey responses from ten countries were analyzed, 94 from professionals and 36 from end-users with CP. The most highly rated design features by both stakeholder groups were the comfort and the ease of putting on and taking off the assistive device. In general, professionals preferred new features to enrich the independence of the patient by improving gait at functional levels. End-users also considered their social acceptance and participation. Health care professionals reported a lack of confidence concerning decision-making about AFO prescription. To some degree, this may be due to the reported inconsistent understanding of the type of assistance required for each pathological gait. Thus, they indicated that more information about patients’ day-to-day walking performance would be beneficial to assess patients’ capabilities.ConclusionThis study emphasizes the importance of developing new approaches to assess and treat CP gait in daily-life situations. The stakeholders’ needs and criteria reported here may serve as insights for the design of future assistive devices and for the follow-up monitoring of these patients.