Cost effective moulded seating for the handicapped child

Area of Science:

• Rehabilitation Engineering
• Biomedical Manufacturing
• Pediatric Orthotics

Background:

• Custom molded seating is crucial for severely handicapped children needing trunk support.
• It enhances posture, prevents pressure sores, and aids daily activities like feeding.
• Cost-effective, high-quality production is essential for widespread patient access.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an efficient and economical manufacturing method for custom molded seating.
• To improve the production process for custom molded seating for pediatric patients.
• To explore the application of novel manufacturing techniques in orthotics.

Main Methods:

• A production method combining vacuum consolidation casting and a modified vacuum forming process was developed.
• Emphasis was placed on minimizing capital equipment requirements.
• Commercially available components were integrated for structural support and edge finishing.

Main Results:

• The developed method enables efficient production of custom molded seating.
• The manufacturing process requires minimal capital investment.
• The final product exhibits enhanced appearance through integrated commercial components.

Conclusions:

• The new manufacturing approach offers an efficient and cost-effective solution for custom molded seating.
• This method can potentially be adapted for the production of other orthotic devices.
• Improved production techniques can increase the accessibility of essential assistive devices.