Theses and Dissertations

Date of Award

5-2019

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Manufacturing Engineering

First Advisor

Dr. Noe Vargas Hernandez

Second Advisor

Dr. Alley Butler

Third Advisor

Dr. Miguel Gonzalez

Abstract

The objective of this research and development work is to design a device to help senior adults prevent fall during night walks indoors. The problem of elders falling at a night setting was found to be caused by the multiple environmental and medical conditions. The target demographic was found to be seniors from age 65 and older. Several occupational therapists and two physical therapists were consulted to gain knowledge on elders' behavior, possible improvements on current existing devices, and feedback regarding the early prototype built. Several products and patents were researched with a lack of findings on similar products that perform the proposed functions. A walking aid device was successfully designed using a systematic design process. A bed anchor and locking mechanism were also designed for the walking aid device to be attachable to the bed. This gives the ability for the walking device to be always available when needed. A finite element analysis, failure modes effects analysis, working model simulations, and early prototype tests were made. The tests determined the possible failures, materials, stability, and demonstrated the interaction between user and device.

Comments

Copyright 2019 Jorge L. Gutierrez. All Rights Reserved.

https://www.proquest.com/dissertations-theses/design-bedside-walker-cane-hybrid-aid-senior/docview/2245797150/se-2?accountid=7119

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