Search research articles

ABOUT JoVE

Overview Leadership Blog JoVE Help Center

AUTHORS

Publishing Process Editorial Board Scope & Policies Peer Review FAQ Submit

LIBRARIANS

Testimonials Subscriptions Access Resources Library Advisory Board FAQ

RESEARCH

JoVE Journal Methods Collections JoVE Encyclopedia of Experiments Archive

EDUCATION

JoVE Core JoVE Business JoVE Science Education JoVE Lab Manual Faculty Resource Center Faculty Site

Terms & Conditions of Use

Search research articles

Related Experiment Videos

Exercise tricycle for paraplegics

M Gföhler¹, M Loicht, P Lugner

¹Department of Biomedical Technology and Physics, University of Vienna, Austria. margit.gfoehler@akh-wien.ac.at

Medical & Biological Engineering & Computing

|June 6, 1998

Summary

This study presents an innovative tricycle designed for paraplegics, enabling independent mobility. The adaptive tricycle features hydraulic adjustments and integrated motor assistance, enhancing accessibility and freedom for users.

Related Concept Videos

You might also read

Related Articles

Articles linked to this work by shared authors, journal, and citation graph.

Sort by

Same author

What can finite element analysis tell us?

Equine veterinary journal·2013

Same author

Test bed with force-measuring crank for static and dynamic investigations on cycling by means of functional electrical stimulation.

IEEE transactions on neural systems and rehabilitation engineering : a publication of the IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society·2001

Same author

Mechanical factors responsible for the obstruction of the gliding mechanism of a dynamic hip screw for stabilizing pertrochanteric femoral fractures.

The Journal of trauma·2000

Same author

Cycling by means of functional electrical stimulation.

IEEE transactions on rehabilitation engineering : a publication of the IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society·2000

Same author

[Experimental studies of the biomechanics of scaphoid screws].

Der Unfallchirurg·1996

Same author

Stress in the Achilles tendon during a topple-over movement in the ankle joint.

Journal of biomechanics·1995

Area of Science:

Rehabilitation Engineering
Assistive Technology
Biomechanics

Background:

Paraplegics face significant mobility challenges, limiting independence.
Standard tricycles present stability issues, particularly during turns.
Existing assistive devices often require external assistance for operation.

Purpose of the Study:

To develop an independently operable tricycle for individuals with paraplegia.
To enhance stability and maneuverability for safe cycling.
To integrate functional electrical stimulation and motor assistance for propulsion.

Main Methods:

Hydraulic saddle adjustment for independent mounting/dismounting.
Swiveling rear wheels with adjustable damping for enhanced stability.
Integration of functional electrical stimulation (FES) for primary propulsion.
Hub motor with throttle control for auxiliary power and gradient assistance.
Continuous monitoring of pedal force, crank position, and wheel velocity for adaptive control.

Main Results:

The tricycle allows paraplegics to mount and dismount independently.
Adaptive stability control mitigates issues during cornering.
Integrated FES and motor drive provide adaptable propulsion.
Real-time sensor data enables precise control of assistive power.

Conclusions:

The developed tricycle offers a viable solution for independent mobility in paraplegics.
The adaptive stability and integrated propulsion systems significantly improve user experience and safety.
This technology has the potential to enhance the quality of life and physical activity levels for individuals with lower limb impairments.

Related Experiment Videos