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AbstractPurposeMaterials and methodsResultsConclusionsIndividuals with reduced vision may rely on handheld magnifiers for near reading of texts on household items such as food packaging and far reading of information notices and signposts. Smartphones have become favoured magnification devices due to their pervasiveness. Users typically take a photo of the text, view the image with magnification and explore details by panning in two-dimensions. However, two-dimensional panning is cumbersome, confusing and slow.To improve the magnification experience, we implemented a proof-of-concept magnifier that reflows text to fit the device’s viewport width. The user navigates through the text by scrolling up/down. Our implementation relies on a novel pixel-based text reflow image analysis algorithm.The prototype can successfully reflow text printed on sheets of paper such as notices. Initial tests showed that users preferred the smart digital magnifier over ordinary magnification.More work is needed to successfully handle other important use cases such as electronic information boards and household product packaging. We discuss open challenges and future directions for smart magnifiers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractPurposeMethodsResultsConclusions\nIMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATIONThe manual, user-operated Arise Standing Wheelchair (SWC) is the end result of multiple design iterations based on findings and feedback from user trials. The Arise SWC provides standing functionality, outdoor mobility, affordability, and customisability. This paper describes a long-term community integration study of the Arise SWC.All participants (N = 8; 7 Male, 1 Female) were persons with spinal cord injuries. During the study period (six months), the participants integrated the Arise SWC into their daily routines. To assess the impact of the Arise SWC on various outcome measures, participants’ responses were captured using a Likert-scale questionnaire at the beginning of the study, after 30 days, and after 180 days of Arise SWC usage.The long-term usage of the Arise SWC positively impacted the users’ standing performance (ability to stand regularly, stand at different locations, and stand in community settings), productive ability (accessibility to environmental controls and ability to perform overhead reaches), and pathophysiology (spasticity and ability to get proper sleep). Furthermore, all the users were able to independently move using the Arise SWC over even and uneven terrain (some needed minimal assistance over uneven terrain).Overall, we believe that Arise SWC will benefit eligible users and improve their ability and performance in daily activities.Arise Standing Wheelchair (SWC) positively impacted users’ standing performance, mobility over uneven terrain, ability to transfer between surfaces, and overhead reaches.Arise SWC positively impacted users’ overall physical well-being.The study shows that Arise SWC improved the users’ overall daily living activities.Arise SWC, an affordable solution, is anticipated to have a global impact, especially on low-income nations.Arise Standing Wheelchair (SWC) positively impacted users’ standing performance, mobility over uneven terrain, ability to transfer between surfaces, and overhead reaches.Arise SWC positively impacted users’ overall physical well-being.The study shows that Arise SWC improved the users’ overall daily living activities.Arise SWC, an affordable solution, is anticipated to have a global impact, especially on low-income nations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractPurposeMaterials and MethodsResults and Conclusions\nIMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATIONActivity-based locomotor training improves intrinsic trunk control in children with spinal cord injury (SCI). To reinforce these improvements, there is a need to develop community integration activities to allow a patient to apply the retrained nervous system at home. One activity that has been explored is rocking in a rocking chair. This paper describes the design, fabrication, and evaluation of a rocking chair for children with SCI.The Quality Function Deployment (QFD) design process was used. Fundamental needs and features for the rocking chair were defined in a focus group with experienced therapists, and needs were then rated for importance. A House of Quality (HOQ) matrix was developed to correlate needs with design features, and a prototype design was generated. Virtual motion studies and finite element analysis (FEA) were utilized to assess the design. The chair was fabricated and physical testing was performed, including tipping and static and dynamic load assessments.The needs identified through the QFD process were categorized into (1) safety, (2) therapeutic, (3) practical and aesthetic, and (4) data to track chair use. Features selected to meet these needs include safety stops, padding, straps, a stable base, armrests, adjustable footrest, and sensors to capture rocking data. FEA showed a factor of safety (FOS) > 5. Physical testing confirmed physical integrity, load-bearing capacity, and stability of the prototype glider rocking chair. The prototype provides a safe tool for further investigation of rocking for promotion of trunk muscle activation in children with SCI.Rocking in a rocking chair promotes carryover of gained trunk control capacity, from clinic to home in a population that is non-ambulatory.Rocking provides opportunity for self-practice in population with severely compromised capacity.Rocking is a movement that may be performed when other types of movement cannot be readily performed, e.g., resistance exercise, movement against gravity.Rocking creates opportunity for repetitive, voluntary, self-directed movement that is inherently pleasurable and reinforcing.Rocking in a rocking chair promotes carryover of gained trunk control capacity, from clinic to home in a population that is non-ambulatory.Rocking provides opportunity for self-practice in population with severely compromised capacity.Rocking is a movement that may be performed when other types of movement cannot be readily performed, e.g., resistance exercise, movement against gravity.Rocking creates opportunity for repetitive, voluntary, self-directed movement that is inherently pleasurable and reinforcing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]