Project
| # | Title | Team Members | TA | Documents | Sponsor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 34 | Dynamic Seat Cushion |
Angelica Fu Anthony Cruz Macedo Eric Cheng |
Jeff Chang | design_document1.pdf design_document2.pdf final_paper1.pdf other1.pdf presentation1.pdf proposal4.pdf video1.MOV |
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| # RFA - Dynamic Seat Cushion Team Members: - Anthony Cruz Macedo (acruzm3) - Angelica Fu (ahfu2) - Eric Cheng (shcheng2) # Problem Around 3 million people per year develop pressure sores, with over 500,000 cases requiring extended hospitalization. Wheelchair users face a higher risk of developing pressure sores and their best solution today is to manually adjust every 15-30 minutes. However, not all wheelchair users are able to readjust their seat position when needed (e.g., those with limited mobility). Those with limited sensation are at an even higher risk of developing pressure sores since they are unable to feel when a readjustment is needed. While cushions provide some relief to wheelchair users, the solution they offer is static, limited, and does not eliminate the risk of pressure sores. Currently, research into dynamic solutions is limited and no commercially available solution exists. # Solution With a combination of resistive sensors, a programmable pneumatic pump, and thermoplastic polyurethane bladders, we will be able to create a dynamic seat cushion to relieve pressure for wheelchair users. The sensors will detect areas and time durations of high pressure(s), and then translate these signals into inflation controls for cushions in the surrounding areas. We will be collaborating with Dr.Golecki’s group where we will handle the electronics portion (sensors, PCB + micorcontroller for air pump) and they will handle the mechanical portion (design of cushions). We are in charge of developing the high-resolution sensor array that determines where the user wants pressure to be relieved, optimizing for efficiency and compactness. # Solution Components ## Subsystem 1: Sensor Array This subsystem will provide high-resolution detection of prolonged pressure points and signal the pneumatic pump that inflation is needed around areas of high pressure. It is comprised of an array (of unfixed size) of force-sensing resistors (FSR). The sensor array would track the detection time of high pressure in each FSR’s area. After meeting time and pressure thresholds, the sensor array would signal the microcontroller to pump air to areas surrounding the pressure point(s). Parts - Multiple Square Force-Sensitive Resistors - Alpha MF02A-N-221-A01 ## Subsystem 2: Programmable Pneumatic Pump System This module is in charge of taking data from our sensors and inflating the necessary cushions in response. The microcontroller will control pressure levels and inflation frequency of the cushions with the programmable pneumatic pump system using the data provided from the sensors. Parts - PCB with Microcontroller - Pneumatic Pump(s) - generates air - Valves - tubing ## Subsystem 3: User Input This subsystem allows users to power on/off the dynamic seat cushion. In addition, it allows users to set a custom threshold time. Dr. Golecki mentioned that 30 minutes is a common threshold time where users would begin to feel pressure, but that every user will have different preferences. This system allows a customized setting for each user’s body. This is also where the rechargeable battery will be placed to power the device. Parts - Rechargeable 12V battery - power - Enclosure - to hold battery and buttons - 2 Buttons - one for power and the other for user input - LEDs - signals the time threshold setting to users # Criterion For Success - Sensor array accurately detects pressure and sends signals when pressure thresholds are met - Microcontroller accurately detects when time thresholds are met and inflates cushions surrounding high pressure areas - Inflation of areas surrounding pressure points reduces or eliminates the pressure at those points - The device is suitable for standard manual and electronic wheelchairs |
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