Team Quadruped:
Kane's Cane Project

Project Abstract: Dr. Thomas R. Kane, age 86, currently uses a four-wheeled walker to improve balance and stability while walking and standing. Although he is content with how well his walker performs, he is not impressed with its size and weight. Dr. Kane desires a substitute for his walker that matches it in function, but is compact and lightweight for easy storage and portability. This project seeks to enhance a current prototype by adding or improving three features: 1) creating an adjustable angle between the forearm segment and the bottom member, 2) adding a mechanism for varying the height of the bottom member, and 3) providing better forearm rests. Several different designs have been considered for each feature and each has received professional engineering and occupational therapy (OT) input. The team has selected a final design and will fabricate and test an improved prototype for Dr. Kane.

The Rechargers:
Medtronic Vest Project

Project Abstract: This project seeks to redesign the Medtronic recharging vest to enhance its recharging efficiency and ease of use by patients who have an implanted rechargeable deep brain stimulator. The team has identified three objectives to pursue for the improved vest design: 1) it should be very easy to put on and to position, 2) it should be comfortable to wear without feeling restricted or confined, even while moving around, and 3) it should be easy to custom fit to the user, ensuring the proper alignment of the implanted stimulator with the recharging unit. The final design addresses all three of these objectives: easy to put on, comfortable to wear, and individually customizable. User tests will determine how well the team's prototype meets these design goals.