For people with muscular dystrophy and spinal muscular atrophy — conditions characterized by degenerating muscle strength — there is a need for an exoskeletal mechanism that allows the person to move their arms about freely. This paper presents a consumer-based design approach in order to construct such an assistive manipulation device and details the initial stages that have been addressed in an orthosis design project within the Applied Science and Engineering Laboratories. Two consumer meetings were held during the initial stages of the design. The results from these meetings are presented. A design principle has been established and an initial set of prototypes evaluated. These will be used to modify subsequent design iterations.

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Apparatus to actively assist neuromotor disabled to have better leg functional control/use. This system serves as a strength enhancer, support device, and attenuator of spastic motions. The disclosed orthosis is worn on the outside of the leg (or legs) and serves as an active/dynamic brace to prevent leg spasms and other untoward leg motion. It is made of lightweight material such as fiberglass or aluminum and is actuated by pneumatic gas sources which are small, portable, and carried with the device. The device is totally self contained and has no external connection. The system has applicability to patients such as: stroke (cerebral vascular accident), TBI (traumatic brain injury), Muscular Dystrophy, and some spinal cord injured.

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