University of Twente Student Theses
Herontwerp van de cosmetische cover voor bovenbeenprotheses
Lof, Nynke (2014) Herontwerp van de cosmetische cover voor bovenbeenprotheses.
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| Abstract: | This report presents the Bachelor assignment for the study Industrial Design at the University of Twente, executed for Roessingh Research and Development, Enschede. It is a research into cosmetic covers for upper leg prostheses. During this assignment, the possibilities for a redesign of the cosmetic cover have been assessed. The research was focussed on the functional feasibility of new materials and techniques. During the first analysis the exact problem is with the current cosmetic cover was assessed. The current cosmetic cover is made of foam which is very stiff. The knee prosthesis is hampered by the rigid foam, which also ensures that the cover quickly rips. Besides assessing the exact problem, the research also focussed on the goals of the cosmetic cover; here is looked at the function of the cover, the users of the cover and the look of the cover. Also the potential solutions for a cosmetic cover are mapped. From this findings a program of requirements and a target group have emerged. The next step is to find solutions to the problems of the current cover. The solution is sought mainly in the area of functionality of the cosmetic cover. In this study, the functionality is related to the flexibility of the cover. Therefore, there is mainly sought to the application of new materials. There are several companies, including Draka Interfoam, visited to collect their views on the problem. After limited results in terms of suitable materials, various techniques that can improve the flexibility of a material were assessed as well. In the concept phase, models were made of the new materials and suitable techniques. These models formed the basis for the tests carried out in the next phase. The models consisted of different materials, and there were several techniques applied to the models in order to improve the flexibility of the material. During the test phase, all models have been tested for flexibility. Flexibility is defined as the amount of force that is required in order to get the model at a predetermined angle. The results of the tests are shown in tables and graphs. After the test, all the results are analysed. From this analysis and the hypotheses are two solutions emerged for a redesign of the cosmetic cover. These two designs are then tested against the program of requirements. Testing these two model on the basis of the program of requirements it appears that a cover which is made of two different types of foam, flexible foam around the knee joint and a firmer foam for the thigh and calf, is the best solution. The concept with different techniques in order to make the material more flexible is a close second. |
| Item Type: | Essay (Bachelor) |
| Faculty: | ET: Engineering Technology |
| Subject: | 20 art studies |
| Programme: | Industrial Design BSc (56955) |
| Link to this item: | https://purl.utwente.nl/essays/66770 |
| Export this item as: | BibTeX EndNote HTML Citation Reference Manager |
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