Standing Alone

Tek RMD
Courtesy of tekrmd.com
One company has taken the “chair” out of wheelchair and made it possible for paraplegics to stand and move around using a robot-like structure to help stabilize their bodies.

Developed by AMS Mekatronic, a company that develops mobilization devices for physically disabled people, Tek Robotic Mobilization Device helps a person who has lost mobility in their legs move about in an upright position.

There are four features of this new kind of mobility device that make it distinctly unique and revolutionary for wheelchair users.

Mounting from the Back

A standard condition with wheelchairs is that one must enter them only from the front. For those who are paraplegic, transferring from the bed, the couch or another seat, to the wheelchair can be difficult to do without assistance and strenuous because it forces their arms to do all the work. With the Tek RMD, the user can mount from the back of the device, which is safer because he or she is in a sitting position.

Standing Up and Health

As part of regular therapy exercises paraplegic people must stand. Before, it was difficult to hoist up into the standing position and perform activities while standing. Now, because the device has a suspension system containing gas springs, the weight is balanced and the user can stand just by gently pulling on the device. Because the movement is easier to perform, the device encourages its users to stand more frequently and do many activities while standing.

Correct Standing Position

This device holds its users up, while leaving their hands free. Previous mechanisms, such as leg braces or scooters, did not have the ability to maintain its user’s proper stance or lift the user up to the appropriate heights. This device allows for both to occur and allows its users to sit as needed. Additionally, the user can enjoy eye contact with people on a daily basis.

Dimensions

At the moment, this device is the world’s smallest mobilization device. It is only 36 cm wide and 62 cm long, making it perfectly capable of fitting in and navigating narrow spaces. It takes up about one-third the space of a small wheelchair and will not allow any movements that might throw it off balance.

To check out what this device looks like and how it works, click here!

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