Cerebral palsy is a neurological disorder that develops generally after a traumatic birth, rendering the newborn without oxygen and ultimately causing brain damage. People who suffer from cerebral palsy are faced with great challenges while performing everyday activities. The client, Sean, is a ten year old boy with a severe case of athetiod cerebral palsy. Sean is considered a quadriplegic since all four of his limbs are affected by his disorder, thus leaving him with a lack of balance and coordination. Communication is also limited to a few simple gestures and facial expressions.

The National Science Foundation Engineering Senior Design Projects to Aid Persons with Disabilities (NSF) will be funding the following two projects for Sean.

 

Assistive Jumping Device

A supporting system is necessary in order for Sean to use a trampoline independently. The Assistive Jumping Device (AJD) will stabilize Sean's upper body, but still enable him to have full access of his legs to jump with. The AJD will ensure the safety of the user while still enjoying all the pleasures of trampoline jumping.

 

Dynavox Travel Mount

Sean uses a Dynovox touch screen personal computer system to communicate with others. While traveling in a car, there is no location for the computer, thus making it extremely hard for Sean to convey his needs to those around him. The Dynovox Travel Mount will allow for the computer to be visible and easily accessible to the user and to ensure full communication while in a vehicle.

 

 

 

For any additional information, please contact us via email at UConnBME3@gmail.com