HIP GRIP PELVIC STABILIZATION DEVICE FOR WHEELCHAIR USE
Peter William Axelson, Director Of Research And Development
Beneficial Designs, Inc.
p.o Box 69
minden, Nv 89423
Grant 1R43HD036156-01 from Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute Of Child Health & Human Development IRG: ZRG4
Abstract: Many people who rely on specialized seating in their wheelchairs have difficulties achieving and maintaining good sitting posture. Maintaining appropriate pelvic positioning and stability are critical to achieving proper sitting posture. Commercially available positioning devices do not provide firm support for the pelvis while allowing functional movement, and often result in misalignment and areas of high pressure. The objectives of Phase I of this project are to design an innovative, dynamic pelvic stabilization device, demonstrate its effectiveness, and refine its design through brief clinical trials. The Hip Grip will consist of contoured pads that grip the pelvis and allow anterior/posterior tilting of the pelvis. Mounted to the user s wheelchair, it will offer firm support around the pelvis, while allowing the user to actively extend the lumbar spine without losing pelvic position within the wheelchair. The Hip Grip will be comfortable, adjustable, and will improve posture. The Hip Grip will link the user with the wheelchair to provide a stable base of support from which to perform functional tasks, such as reaching and bending, without risk of falling out of the wheelchair. This will potentially increase wheelchair propulsion efficiency and user independence. PROPOSED COMMERCIAL APPLICATION The proposed dynamic pelvic stabilization device will potentially enhance the lives of thousands of wheelchair users. The system can improve posture, comfort and function. This seating technology can also be applied to other rehabilitation equipment where dynamic custom seating is desirable
Keywords: assistive device /technology, biomedical equipment development, immobilization of body part, pelvis, posture, restraint clinical research, human subject, interview
Project start date: 1998-04-01
Project end date: 1998-09-30
1R43HD036156-01 (1998): $99870
Sponsored Links Excellgen http://Excellgen.com
Grants awarded to Peter William Axelson
MEASUREMENT OF SURFACE CHARACTERISTICS FOR ACCESSIBILITY
Peter William Axelson, Director Of Research And Development
Beneficial Designs, Inc. P.o Box 69 Minden, Nv 89423
Grant 5R44HD030979-03 from National Institute Of Child Health And Human Development IRG: ZRG4
Abstract: This research project addresses the need to develop an objective, portable, and inexpensive measurement method for determining the accessibility of indoor and outdoor surfaces. Current technical specifications are inadequate, and comprehensive standards are lacking for surface accessibility for persons with disability. In Phase I, five different portable devices that measure surface firmness were developed and evaluated. One device, the tire penetrometer, was demonstrated to be accurate and reliable for measuring surface firmness. In Phase II, the tire penetrometer will be refined and an additional measurement method will be developed to provide thorough and valid measures of surface stability. Repeatability of the device measurements will be demonstrated by the same and different operators. Measures will be validated by comparisons with wheelchair rolling and turning resistance measures recorded in a controlled laboratory setting using the SMARTwheel. The methods developed in this project will make it possible, for the first time, to objectively assess surface accessibility of indoor and outdoor surfaces. Such measures will enable standards organizations to develop specific guidelines for surface accessibility. It is expected that objective measures and specific guidelines will lead to improved accessibility for people of all abilities. PROPOSED COMMERCIAL APPLICATION A portable surface assessment device for measuring the firmness and stability of surfaces will be made commercially available to enable field testing of surfaces to determine whether or not they are accessible. The device will also enable field testing of outdoor recreation access routes and trail surfaces to determine their degree of accessibility. In collaboration with Dr. Rory Cooper s lab, the SMARTwheel and associated equipment and software will be made available as a package for larger manufacturers or test labs that desire the in-house capability to perform full service surface testing.
Keywords: assistive device /technology, biomedical equipment development, hardness, measurement, surface property, clinical biomedical equipment
Project start date: 1993-09-27
Project end date: 2000-07-31
5R44HD030979-03 (1997): $352086
TRAIL DATA PROCESSING SOFTWARE
Peter William Axelson, Director Of Research And Development
Beneficial Designs, Inc.
p.o Box 69
minden, Nv 89423
Grant 2R44HD036538-02 from Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute Of Child Health & Human Development IRG: ZRG1
Abstract: This project will help people with and without disabilities enjoy the outdoors by providing them with the access information needed to identify trails that match their abilities and desired hiking experiences. A trail inventory process has been developed to collect pertinent access and maintenance data. Objective information on grade, cross slope, width, surface characteristics, obstacles, and trail features is then processed to produce Trail Access Information. This project will develop stand-alone Trail Data Processing Software (TrailWare) that will enable trail managers to efficiently process trail data, create simple trail signage in formats similar to the nutrition facts label found on packaged foods, identify areas requiring improvement, and determine compliance with accessibility standards. The usability and effectiveness of TrailWare will be demonstrated through evaluations by in- house personnel, trail managers, and others with a range of computer and trail experience. A new section to the Americans with Disabilities Act Accessibility Guidelines is being written for outdoor recreation areas. This information processing tool will be needed to determine the accessibility of complex trail environments. The software will enable land managers to identify portions of trails to be improved and to provide trail access information to visitors. PROPOSED COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS Land management agencies and organizations throughout the U.S. will use the Trail Data Processing Software to produce signage, generate maintenance reports, and identify access improvements. Providing objective information on trail conditions will facilitate access to the outdoor leisure and recreation environment for millions of trail users, particularly those who are inexperienced or have mobility limitations
Keywords: automated data processing, computer program /software, computer system design /evaluation, environment, exercise, gait, person with disability, recreation informatics human subject
Project start date: 1998-07-10
Project end date: 2002-04-30
2R44HD036538-02 (2000): $346349
COMPUTERIZED MAPPING OF OUTDOOR TRAILS FOR ACCESSIBILITY
Peter William Axelson, Director Of Research And Development
Beneficial Designs, Inc. P.o Box 69 Minden, Nv 89423
Grant 1R43HD029992-01 from National Institute Of Child Health And Human Development IRG: SSS
Abstract: This project addresses the need for information systems for children and adults with disabilities. People with mobility and visual impairments, including but not limited to wheelchair users, desires to experience outdoor trails just as much as everyone else. Existing definitions of accessibility for building access can not realistically be applied toward outdoor trails and existing trail grading systems do not tell a wheelchair user or person with limited vision the objective information needed to determine if a trail can be hiked independently, with assistance, or at all. This project will develop and test a system for measuring and then coding objective information on the degree of accessibility of outdoor trails into maps. The maps will enable people with mobility and visual limitations to make decisions about where they might try to go hiking. In the projects final implementation, a certified trail assessment coordinator will make measurements with a team of volunteers. The data will be processed using Computer Aided Design software into a map with text that will be printed and distributed through a variety of mechanisms.
Keywords: computer program /software, computer system design /evaluation, handicapped, information display, information system, leisure, computer assisted instruction, computer graphics /printing, digital imaging, quality of life
Project start date: 1993-05-01
Project end date: 1993-10-31
1R43HD029992-01 (1993): $50000
OptiFit Wheelchair Fitting System
Peter William Axelson, Director Of Research And Development
Beneficial Designs, Inc. P.o Box 69 Minden, Nv 89423
Grant 5R43HD047071-02 from National Institute Of Child Health And Human Development IRG: MRS
Abstract: There, is a high incidence of overuse injuries among manual wheelchair users. One method to prevent the development or delay the onset of injuries is to reduce the physical demand on the user during wheelchair propulsion. Configuration of the wheelchair can have a significant effect on the effort required to propel the wheelchair; however, the optimal setup required to minimize demand on the user is not known. The goal of this project is to develop the OptiFit system, a clinical tool for determining the optimal wheelchair configuration for a specific user. The wheelchair configuration variables that most influence propulsion ergonomics will be determined through a series of studies involving manual wheelchair users. The primary variables to be investigated include shoulder-to-hub distance, shoulder-to-hub angle, seat angle, back support angle, back support height, wheel camber, and wheel diameter. Propulsion efficiency will be evaluated with respect to user characteristics, such as arm length, range of shoulder extension, and upper extremity strength. The algorithm for the OptiFit system will be developed based on statistical correlations between subject characteristics and propulsion outcome measures. Use of the OptiFit system in clinical settings will assist rehabilitation professionals in providing wheelchairs that are optimally configured for each user. Maximizing propulsion ergonomics through an optimal wheelchair setup will likely reduce the incidence and severity of overuse injuries.
Keywords: assistive device /technology, ergonomics, technology /technique development, biomechanics, injury prevention, muscle strength, person with disability, rehabilitation, shoulder, clinical research, human subject
Project start date: 2005-03-01
Project end date: 2007-02-28
5R43HD047071-02 (2006): $99849
1R43HD047071-01A1 (2005): $104130
COMPUTERIZED MAPPING OF OUTDOOR TRAILS FOR ACCESSIBILITY
Peter William Axelson, Director Of Research And Development
Beneficial Designs, Inc.
p.o Box 69
minden, Nv 89423
Grant 2R44HD029992-02 from National Institute Of Child Health And Human Development IRG: ZRG7
Abstract: The first step towards providing people with disabilities access to the wilderness is to provide accurate information on the degree of accessibility of the environment. Existing trail grading systems do not provide persons with mobility and visual limitations the access information needed. The objectives of Phase I of the research project were successfully accomplished a trail assessment procedure was developed and used to assess 12 trails; reliability of the methodology was verified; objective information was coded into trail guides with universal access information; and the effectiveness and usefulness of the trail guides was validated. The objectives of Phase II are to refine the trail guides developed in Phase I; to conduct field testing and user evaluation of the trail guides to optimize the form of presentation; to create trail guides using the trail data collected by trail assessment coordinators representing 5 national agencies; and to validate the training assessment and mapping system. These unique trail guides will enable all outdoor enthusiasts to make informed decisions about which trails to use for recreational activities. Trail data will also be incorporated into trail sign age and used by trail managers to identify areas that can be modified to increase the accessibility of trails
Keywords: computer program /software, computer system design /evaluation, handicapped aid, information display, information system, recreation blind aid, computer assisted instruction, computer data analysis, computer graphics /printing, digital imaging, functional ability, handbook, handicapped, quality of life, training, vision disorder audiotape, data collection, field study
Project start date: 1993-05-01
Project end date: 1996-08-31
2R44HD029992-02 (1994): $327673
Anthropomorphic Loading Device For Seat Cushion Testing
Peter William Axelson, Director Of Research And Development
Beneficial Designs, Inc. P.o Box 69 Minden, Nv 89423
Grant 1R43HD043509-01 from National Institute Of Child Health And Human Development IRG: ZRG1
Abstract: The ability to evaluate the performance of seat cushions is critical to the development of wheelchair seating and standards, and to the selection of cushions by consumers and therapists. To assess the ability of a wheelchair cushion to distribute pressure, the Skeletal Embedded Loading Indentor (SKELI) was designed to simulate both the soft tissue and bony skeletal substructure of the human anatomy. However, the existing SKELI was molded from a single individual and does not allow the testing of cushions for nonstandard pelvis postures and sizes. This project will develop the Adjustable Skeletal Loading Indentor (ASLI), an innovative test fixture with adjustable pelvic and soft tissue components that can be configured to simulate differences in pelvic width, and pelvic tilt, rotation, and obliquity. The ability of the ASLI to mimic pelvic deformities will be verified by comparing pressure distribution patterns on four different types of commercially available cushions. Data will be analyzed in five key zones the right and left ischial tuberosities, the right and left trochanters, and the sacrum/coccyx. The ASLI will benefit cushion users by providing needed information on cushion performance.
Keywords: assistive device /technology, biomechanics, biomedical equipment development, consumer product, decubitus ulcer, posture, body weight, bioengineering /biomedical engineering, medical rehabilitation related tag
Project start date: 2003-03-07
Project end date: 2004-08-30
1R43HD043509-01 (2003): $99936
A Universal Canoe Seating System
Peter William Axelson, Director Of Research And Development
Beneficial Designs, Inc. P.o Box 69 Minden, Nv 89423
Grant 5R44HD036944-03 from National Institute Of Child Health And Human Development IRG: ZRG1
Abstract: Recreation is a primary factor in the quality of life of people with disabilities. Paddle sports are one of the fastest growing recreational activities. Current canoe seating products cradle the paddler in a flexible fabric or plastic bucket but do not provide the stable base of support required for efficient, independent and equal participation by users with movement limitations. The universal canoe seating system will support the pelvis, torso and legs creating a stable base of support that will increase upper body function, balance, endurance, strength and movement efficiency. Technological innovations will mechanically link paddler and canoe, enable personal cushion use and enhance the function and effectiveness of paddlers with movement, strength, balance, positioning or endurance limitations. Phase I results demonstrated enhanced paddler strength, comfort and balance without compromising safety. Phase II user testing will demonstrate the functional benefits of the seat through comparative measures of fit, support, user satisfaction, paddling strength and endurance. The durability and safety of the seat will be established through strength and load testing. With the new seat, individuals, outdoor recreation programs, rental companies and outfitters will have a system that enables safe, effective and equal canoeing opportunities for people of all abilities.
Keywords: assistive device /technology, biomedical equipment development, recreation, safety equipment, transportation /recreation safety, balance, functional ability, muscle strength, physical fitness, satisfaction, clinical research, human subject, person with disability
Project start date: 1999-09-15
Project end date: 2006-02-28
5R44HD036944-03 (2003): $291299
Universal Design Guidelines For Fitness Equipment
Peter William Axelson, Director Of Research And Development
Beneficial Designs, Inc. P.o Box 69 Minden, Nv 89423
Grant 1R43HD049236-01 from National Institute Of Child Health And Human Development IRG: ZHD1
Abstract: People with disabilities have increased health risks as a result of a sedentary lifestyle. Limited access to fitness equipment is a primary barrier to physical activity and a significant environmental barrier to the health and well-being of people with disabilities. This project will develop design, construction and installation guidelines for the universal design of aerobic and strength training equipment. Currently, no guidelines or information is available for manufacturers wishing to incorporate universal design principles into their product line. These products will define the standards of practice to ensure that most people with disabilities have access to commercially available, "mainstream" fitness equipment. This research will also develop a model step-by-step process for the modification of existing equipment, a system for identifying universal design products to consumers and data on the cost-benefits of universal design fitness equipment (UDFE). The objectives of Phase I are to a) identify the issues and needs of key stakeholders through direct consultations, b) establish draft guidelines in conjunction with the Project Advisory Board, c) outline the feasibility and cost implications of the draft guidelines through surveys of equipment manufacturers and organizations of people with disabilities, d) develop a modification template for existing equipment; e) create a UDFE identification system that can be easily recognized by consumers, and f) establish manufacturer commitment to the implementation of the UDFE guidelines. Phase II research will establish the safety, reliability and validity of the UDFE guidelines by having manufacturers implement the guidelines with their existing products. Phase II will also examine the health impacts of guidelines implementation for people with disabilities by correlating changes in fitness with UDFE guideline compliance. Beneficial Designs, Inc. and The Center for Universal Design will ensure commercial availability of the guidelines and implementation support for manufacturers in Phase III.
Keywords: assistive device /technology, biomedical equipment development, biomedical equipment safety, exercise, person with disability, physical fitness, aerobic exercise, body movement, functional ability, muscle strength, bioengineering /biomedical engineering, clinical research, medical rehabilitation related tag
Project start date: 2005-04-01
Project end date: 2006-11-30
1R43HD049236-01 (2005): $99719
BACK SUPPORT SHAPING SYSTEM FOR WHEELCHAIRS
Peter William Axelson, Director Of Research And Development
Beneficial Designs, Inc. P.o Box 69 Minden, Nv 89423
Grant 1R43HD029983-01 from National Institute Of Child Health And Human Development IRG: SSS
Abstract: Many long term wheelchair users develop back pain and/or spinal and pelvic deformities, which are in part due to the rounded spinal posture promoted by the sling upholstery in the standard wheelchair. Two back support systems which connect to the vertical upright frame members of a standard wheelchair with tension straps will be designed and fabricated for evaluation. The low back support system is a single support pad for use with low back wheelchairs. The full back support system, is for use on wheelchairs with standard back heights. Both the low back and full back support systems reshape the contour of the sling back rest upholstery, by exerting forward pressure from behind the sling upholstery. This reshapes the wheel chair user s sitting posture. The proposed design solutions will be posturally supportive, comfortable, adjustable, lightweight, durable, affordable, aesthetically pleasing and will allow folding of the wheelchair without removal. No other backrest support systems are available which both reshape sling backrest upholstery and satisfy the above design criteria. A design and evaluation process for optimizing the specifications of both systems with regard to the pad shape, placement, foam type, and attachment to the wheelchair will be followed.
Keywords: back, biomedical engineering, biomedical equipment development, clinical biomedical equipment, handicapped aid, posture, body movement, pelvis, spine, human subject
Project start date: 1993-02-10
Project end date: 1993-07-31
1R43HD029983-01 (1993): $50000
Sponsored Links Excellgen http://Excellgen.com
2R44HD029983-02 (1994): $294265
TRAIL DATA PROCESSING SOFTWARE
Peter William Axelson, Director Of Research And Development
Beneficial Designs, Inc.
p.o Box 69
minden, Nv 89423
Grant 1R43HD036538-01 from Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute Of Child Health & Human Development IRG: ZRG4
Abstract: Adapted from ´s ) This project will help people with and without disabilities enjoy outdoor parks and hiking trails by helping to provide them with the access information they need to identify appropriate trails to hike. A trail inventory process has been developed to capture pertinent access and maintenance information. Information with regard to grade, cross slope, width, surface characteristics, obstacles, and trail features is then processed to produce trail access information in formats similar to the nutrition information found on packaged foods. Current methods for processing the trail data are cumbersome, and require Microsoft Excel and experience with this spreadsheet application. this project will develop stand-alone software that will enable trail managers to quickly and easily process their own trail data, create simple trail facts signage, and identify areas requiring improvement. The objectives of this project are to develop Trail Data Processing Software that meets the needs of land management agencies, and to determine its usability and effectiveness though evaluations by in-house personnel, trail managers, and others with a range of computer and trail experience. The software will enable land managers to identify portions of trails to be improved and to provide trail access information to visitors. PROPOSED COMMERCIAL APPLICATION NOT AVAILABLE
Keywords: computer program /software, computer system design /evaluation, environment, exercise, gait, person with disability informatics
Project start date: 1998-07-10
Project end date: 1999-09-09
1R43HD036538-01 (1998): $99233
FLEXRIM LOW IMPACT WHEELCHAIR PUSHRIM
Peter William Axelson, Director Of Research And Development
Beneficial Designs, Inc.
p.o Box 69
minden, Nv 89423
Grant 1R43HD036533-01 from Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute Of Child Health & Human Development IRG: ZRG4
Abstract: Adapted from ´s ) It is estimated that 55% of manual wheelchair users suffer from pain in their hands, wrists or shoulders. These upper extremity injuries are attributed to daily repetition of high stress activities, such as transfers and wheelchair propulsion, and can severely impact the mobility and independence of manual wheelchair users. Currently available pushrim technologies do not provide an effective means to reduce the stress imposed on wheelchair users´ upper limbs during wheelchair propulsion. The Phase I objectives of this research project are to design and test an innovative propulsion technology that dampens the forces transmitted to a wheelchair user´s upper extremities while propelling a manual wheelchair. The FLEXRIM will consist of an interface between the pushrim and the wheelchair wheel that will lower peak propulsion impact forces. A minimum of four FLEXRIM concepts will be prototyped. Each concept will be evaluated for its effectiveness through impact absorption and mechanical efficiency testing. The performance of the FLEXRIM prototypes will be compared to a standard, rigid pushrim. The designs will be objectively tested for refinement through subject evaluations in a biomechanics lab in Phase II. PROPOSED COMMERCIAL APPLICATION NOT AVAILABLE
Keywords: assistive device /technology, bioengineering /biomedical engineering, biomedical equipment development, limb movement biomechanics, clinical biomedical equipment, pain, repetitive motion injury
Project start date: 1998-07-01
Project end date: 1998-12-31
1R43HD036533-01 (1998): $99587
QUANTITATIVE HAND STRENGTH ASSESSMENT DEVICES
Peter William Axelson, Director Of Research And Development
Beneficial Designs, Inc. P.o Box 69 Minden, Nv 89423
Grant 1R43HD033940-01 from National Institute Of Child Health And Human Development IRG: ZRG7
Project start date: 1996-03-14
Project end date: 1997-03-12
1R43HD033940-01 (1996): $99882
MEASUREMENT OF SURFACE CHARACTERISTICS FOR ACCESSIBILITY
Peter William Axelson, Director Of Research And Development
Beneficial Designs, Inc. P.o Box 69 Minden, Nv 89423
Grant 2R44HD030979-02 from National Institute Of Child Health And Human Development IRG: ZRG4
Project start date: 1993-09-27
Project end date: 1998-07-31
2R44HD030979-02 (1996): $375847