Design and Construction of a Prototype of an Assisting Device for Arm Exercise Articles uri icon

publication date

  • February 2024

start page

  • 145

issue

  • 2

volume

  • 12

Electronic International Standard Serial Number (EISSN)

  • 2075-1702

abstract

  • A new portable arm exercise device is presented as a laboratory prototype to assist arm
    movements in rehabilitation therapies and movement exercises. Unlike the devices currently used,
    a portable design is proposed, with easy assembly and operational characteristics that enable it
    to be used by users in the home and in a familiar environment. Sensors are also provided on the
    rotating crank to validate and monitor the efficiency of the arm exercise. A low-cost prototype is
    assembled using off-the-shelf components and 3D-printed parts. Design issues are discussed and
    elaborated on to build a prototype for future laboratory testing using fairly simple experimental
    methodology. Preliminary testing by one author shows good feasibility of the device. The findings
    from the experimental results can be summarized as effective smooth-monitored cyclic motion in
    the crank rotation with limited values for acceleration less than 1 g and for acting user forces less
    than 22 N. The values detected are significantly lower in the left hand, with the testing subject being
    right-handed and healthy, without injury to her upper limbs.

subjects

  • Mechanical Engineering

keywords

  • medical devices; biomechanics; mechanism design; motion assistance; arm exercises