Converting Gait Trainer
By Moss, Taylor; Norman, Anne Marie; Oehmichen, Molly; Schexnayder, Noel; Rice, David A.; NSF 2008 Engineering Senior Design Projects to Aid Persons With Disabilities, pages 162-`63Publication Date: 2011
Description of a gait trainer that converts to a stroller. The Converting Gait Trainer was designed by engineering students at Tulane University for a four year old client with reduced muscle tone and limited spatial perception who is able to walk only short distances unaided. The Nurmi Neo child size gait trainer from Otto Bock serves as the base of the device, along with an adjustable sling seat, anti-reverse wheel locks, and friction brakes. Modifications to the gait trainer include a headrest, a removable footrest, a fold down stroller handlebar, walker grips with forearm supports, and anti-tip bars. The headrest, footrest, and stroller handlebar are used during stroller mode to enable the client's parents to transport him. In the walker mode, the main components utilized are the anti-tip bars, forearm supports, and a protective barrier designed to keep the client from falling forward. An additional safety feature on the Converting Gait Trainer is rubber coating on all metal parts the client may contact, an important feature because the client has frequent seizures. The device is lightweight and folds for storage. Total project cost was 950 dollars.
Published by: Creative Learning Press, Inc. (Website:http://www.creativelearningpress.com)
Link to text: http://nsf-pad.bme.uconn.edu/2008/Chapter%209,%20Tulane%20University.pdf
ISBN: 1-931280-12-6
