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. 2024 Mar 29:2024:3622556.
doi: 10.1155/2024/3622556. eCollection 2024.

Design and Performance Analysis of a Mecanum-Built Perturbation-Based Balance Training Device

Jaison Jacob Mathunny  1 , Hari Krishnan S  1 , Ashokkumar Devaraj  1 , Varshini Karthik  1
Affiliations

Design and Performance Analysis of a Mecanum-Built Perturbation-Based Balance Training Device

Jaison Jacob Mathunny et al. Appl Bionics Biomech. .

Abstract

This study proposes a mecanum-built perturbation-based balance training device aimed at improving motor adaptive skills for fall prevention in individuals with neurological disorders or the elderly. Incorporating multidirectional fall simulations in line with modified constraint-induced movement therapy, the device's efficacy was evaluated by measuring the distance traveled and peak acceleration under different static loads (20, 30, and 40 kg) and input accelerations (1, 2, and 3 m/s2). A pilot study with 10 subjects was conducted to assess device performance, utilizing repeated measures analysis of variance and Bonferroni's post hoc analysis. Results indicated a load-dependent reduction in distance traveled, with an average mean difference of 0.74-1.23 cm between the 20 and 40 kg loads for trials of 9 and 18 cm, respectively. Despite varying loads, the device consistently achieved near-anticipated peak accelerations, suggesting its capability to induce effective perturbations. The study also observed a significant lateral movement preference, suggesting adjustments to pulse width modulation and time period may optimize lateral movement performance.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors declare that they have no conflicts of interest.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Block diagram of the mecanum-built PBT device.
Figure 2
Figure 2
(a) Device on the printed sheet on the leveled base and (b) sensor alignment and movement direction.
Figure 3
Figure 3
(a) Straight-line measurement (Kinovea output), (b) diagonal measurement (Kinovea output), and (c) AutoCAD design.
Figure 4
Figure 4
Experimental setup.
Figure 5
Figure 5
Pilot study setup.
Figure 6
Figure 6
Pairwise comparison of acceleration generated across various directions by the device when operated at the input acceleration of 3 m/s2: results from the pilot study. The  ∗ and # have p-values less than 0.001 and 0.025, respectively.
Figure 7
Figure 7
Pairwise comparison of distance traveled across various directions by the device with expected input distance of 18 cm: results from the pilot study. The  ∗ has a p-value less than 0.001.
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