In order to obtain the best results from the intervention studies being conducted

through the Pediatric Mobility Lab, I

propose that a new prototype be

developed, combining and improving upon

the first two Playskin designs. I propose we

use the initial design with modifications

based on observations involving the

function of the second version. A zipper,

rather than buttons, in the front would allow

for greater ease of access. I would suggest

using the same vinyl bundle casings sewn

into the garment, as seen in the original

Playskin, but having one slot along the

length of the external oblique, splitting into

two casings at the axilla, and continuing as

two along the medial and posterior triceps.

This will allow for lift in the proper

directions, both superior in the sagittal

plane, and medially in the transverse plane.

This configuration will allow for greater lift,

better distribution of force, and proper

position for optimal sensory stimulation. I

would also suggest making the torso out of

a woven fabric for comfort and fashion,

while making the sleeves out of a knit fabric

for function. This design, in theory, will

combine the function of the original

Playskin with the comfort and safety of the

second version.

As a part of the lab I have had two distinctly

different roles. My fist experience presented

itself in the form of a Senior Design course

as a part of the Biomedical Engineering

curriculum. We were given a problem

statement and asked to offer a solution in a

short 12 week period. That is where the

black modification of the WREX, or Playskin,

was developed.

Second was this Clinical Immersion. I was given the opportunity to spend more time

with Dr. Galloway and, especially, Dr.

Michele Lobo in an attempt to gain a better

understanding of what the lab does, how

research is performed, and how an

engineering division would benefit the lab as

a whole. I was also able to continue my work

with the Playskin and work with fashion

expert Martha Hall on a second version.

This second version was made as a direct result of instructions given to us by Dr. Lobo.

The idea was to take the Playskin, and pair it

down into separate adjustable pieces. We

were able to create a working prototype, as

shown below, and test it on a young boy with

Arthrogryposis in order to gain insight on

how it differed from the original Playskin.

From that test fitting, we were able to formulate an idea for what the lab could

pursue as a Playskin 3.0, taking the positive

aspects from both of the first two versions

and eliminating some of the negative

aspects.

Currently, the lab has developed an intervention

study that focuses on the upper extremity

movement of children with, and without, the

Wilmington Robotic Exoskeleton (WREX).

This exoskeleton, originally developed at the A.I.

duPont Hospital for Children, has proven

effective, though bulky, intimidating, and

possibly unsafe for the user.

The Pediatric Mobility Lab has done intervention

studies where this shows effective, but had a goal

of making it less obtrusive. Therefore, they

worked with the College of Engineering to

develop a garment based system that provides

similar function but offers it with the advantage

of being low profile.

The main reason for doing this was to allow for

greater torso and leg mobility where applicable,

as well as allowing the wearer to interact with

other children without scaring them or potentially

injuring them.

The Pediatric Mobility Lab at the University of Delaware is comprised of a

team of researchers who aim to

understand the development of pre-term

and injured infants compared to that of full

term infants. Through observation and film

study, researchers can analyze and

interpret data in order to gain an

understanding of why infants develop

differently based on their birth term,

congenital disease, or pre-birth injury.

Background

Researchers and therapists working in the Pediatric Mobility Lab have thorough

knowledge of the growth and development

of young children. Children with congenital

disease, pre-term birth, or early life injury

are at a high risk of developing disabilities.

The development of human babies relies

greatly on movement, interaction, and

sensory intake. Children with disabilities

often find themselves behind the curve

when it comes to learning and growing.

The labs principle aim is to develop a method of helping kids at risk develop

more normally. To do that, they need

devices and intervention

Goal

My Experience Current Methods My Proposed Solution

Dr. Cole Galloway Senior Lab Adviser Dr. Michele Lobo Research Scientist Martha Hall Expert Fashion Consultant Peter Popper Consulting Engineer Steve Cope Consulting Engineer Kevin Chang Creator of Original Playskin John Koshy - Creator of Original Playskin Mike Olaya - Creator of Original Playskin

Acknowledgements

The Pediatric Mobility Lab at the University of Delaware

Rob Oblender with Dr. Cole Galloway and Dr. Michele Lobo