Sponsor: Jorene Proper, PPT
Central Intermediate Unit #10
Faculty Coach: Dr. Mary Frecker
Date: Fall 2003
Summary
The Flotation Therapy team has been assigned to design and construct a modular system of devices to assist in water therapy for handicapped children. Most of the children doing therapy cannot stand in the pool so it is challenging to support the children and help them with their activities at the same time so devices would need to be created to help in these activities. The mechanical engineering expertise of the group members ensures that the flotation devices will be constructed and used safely for years to come. A modular design will combine a chair and floating raft into one adaptable unit. A PVC frame with a mesh platform for standing exercises will form the structure of the unit. The foam chair will hang from overhead straps from the PVC frame. The materials for the flotation devices will be chosen according to safety and durability requirements while adhering to the project budget of $600. A timeline has been constructed to ensure that the flotation devices will be constructed and tested by observing children actually using the equipment by the conclusion of the project.
Design Specifications
Constraints:
- Weights of children ranging from 25-55 pounds
- Heights of children ranging from 35-48 inches
- Must fit through a standard size doorway
- Must fit in a truck or station wagon
- Lightweight and Portable
- Works in a 90 and 180 degree position
- Adapts from a platform to a chair to a raft and vice versa
- Contains head support and pelvic, leg and chest straps
- No use of inflatable materials due to puncture potential
Final Design