Abstract
Three kinds of externally powered orthoses have been devised for the severely disabled. Each of them is applied to paralysed hands, weakened upper extremities or paralysed. The principle of development of these externally powered orthoses was based on simply constructed mechanisms, as well as easy application and control for the severely disabled.
The first externally powered hand splint and the second externally powered balanced forearm orthosis (BFO) was described in the former report in Bulletin of the Japanese Society of Prosthetic and Orthotic Education, Research and Development. Vol.1, No.3.
The third electrically powered lower extremity orthosis was produced to enable the paraplegics to ambulate with crutches. The frame consisting of a link mechanism was attached to the outer upright of the brace at both sides. This linked frame was driven by means of a switch attached to a crutch so as to simulate the gait pattern of a normal subject.
Each of these orthoses was applied to above respective subjects. Practical evaluation has been proved to be useful.
