Flexible and Ergonomically Three Wheel Bike for Post Stroke Patient

Abstract

This paper explains the new design of the three wheel bike for post-stroke patients as a equipment for physical therapy. The bike can be pedaled by foot and / or by hand simultaneously. Bike frame is made of aluminum alloy pipe and consists of front and rear frame. The front frame is equipped with a steering system that can regulate the moving of two wheels of diameter of 22 ". The rear frame is equipped with a fold mechanism, shock breaker, seat and chain stay pipes for clamping the rear wheel with diameter of 22 ". The rear frame is also equipped with a mechanism of transfer speed in three levels. Bike length is 1645 mm, width 615 mm and height 1035 mm. However, after folded the bike dimension became 725 mm long, 460 mm wide and 1035 mm high. By using CATIA software the strength frame material is simulated and analyzed. The bike design is evaluated from ergonomics aspect with RULA method. The proposed design is performed into a prototype. The prototype test is conducted. The result test show, that the bike is pedaled, either by hand or foot, strong, safe and comfortable to ride. In order to evaluate the design benefit, the pedal test is also conducted in various pedal velocities by 3 post stroke patients as respondent. During 6 minutes pedaling number of rider heartbeat is measured. The result shows all the number of heartbeat is not exceeded than 120 HR. That means the bike is enough light to pedal or the patient must not give extra power to ride the bike. Moreover, during 4 weeks therapy by cycling the bike, pedal velocity each respondents is increase significantly around 26-96%, this means the muscle contraction of respondents is reduce and developed bike can be used as alternative equipment for physical therapy of post stroke patient. Because light and foldable, the bike can be moved easily and put in the trunk of a car without problem.

Use procedures tricycle for physical rehabilitation of stroke patients

“…According to health standards, each person is allowed to perform the movements of the body (fitness), if the heartbeat intensity 70% -80% of the maximum pulse rate. Meanwhile, according to the American Heart Association, the intensity needed for the stroke is approximately 50-80% of maximum heart rate [5]. Besides intensity heart rate, respiratory frequency of the patient should also be measured.…”

“…Since 2014 Batan et al, in the Laboratory of Design and Product Development, ITS has designed and created a tricycle, which is intended to help patients with post-stroke physical therapy [4,5]. Bicycles built in prototype form and tested the ability of the aspects of functionality and safety.…”

“…Bicycles built in prototype form and tested the ability of the aspects of functionality and safety. Results of testing appointment, that within 30 days of therapy stroke patients can improve the speed of the stroke of his legs almost above 100% [4,5]. To establish and develop the function of bicycles as a means of physical therapy patients with stroke, developed procedures use a tricycle which is based on the standard procedure of the hospital in Indonesia, particularly general hospital in Surabaya.…”