The HANDFORCE project consists of multiple groups, each contributing their own part to the project. Our project group from the BeCreative minor was asked to delve deeper into the Exercise Effort section of the project. Our group consists of six students, all of whom are pursuing an engineering study and therefore have no affinity with medically related projects. The target group for the HANDFORCE project primarily includes people who have suffered a stroke. These patients often have difficulty moving their hand and may have partially or completely lost their mobility. The goal of our project was to measure the efforts of a patient doing hand exercises as part of a revalidation process. The purpose of measuring these efforts is to stimulate exercising and to monitor the progress of these exercises.
Project description
The research conducted at the project’s outset identified key requirements for two components, being force and mobility, which were duly incorporated during the design phase to ensure the system would meet these criteria. By dividing the project into 2 parts, we were able to maintain a clear overview throughout and focus on each component’s specific requirements. Developing several versions along the way allowed us to conduct timely testing, thereby preventing issues in the final prototype.
Project results
Developing several versions along the way allowed us to conduct timely testing, thereby preventing issues in the final prototype. The first iteration of the touchplate was created to test the concept of capacitive touchpads. This design was later expanded with an improved version of the finger placement for a average hand size. Around every base pad there are four touchpads so that every finger can move up, down, left and right. Under the touchplate there is room for the wires of the touchpads. To further enhance the touchpad, LEDs were added in the third version to improve the patient’s hand-eye coordination
As a group we were able to achieve two working prototypes, which we consider a great result. Throughout the project, all group members have further developed their skills by applying them to the project tasks or through personal exercises. This project has not only delivered a successful outcome for the stakeholders but has also contributed to the personal development of the students involved. With all the results we have achieved, we can look back on a productive period during which significant growth and knowledge were acquired.
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Acknowledgments
The project group wishes to acknlowledge the Fontys Paramedical school for sharing valuable and practical insights.