LINEAR ERGOMETER FOR UPPER AND LOWER LIMBS: DESIGN PROGRESS

This chapter aims to present the conception, design, production and validation of a new linear ergometer for upper and lower limbs to aid in the rehabilitation of individuals with medullary injuries, allowing minimization of functional deficits following pressure ulcers, as well as assist in the physiotherapeutic treatment in amputated patients, patients in critical condition, or with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), among others. This enables an increase in muscle tone and improves quality of life. This device's project adopted the concept of Universal Design, proposing a design centered around the human being, establishing new criteria for the product's ability to comply with the largest amount of users, regardless of their physical characteristics, skills, and age. This complies with human diversity and provides greater ergonomics to any user, aiming the human-machine symbiogenesis. Tests performed with a functional prototype, involving physical evaluation, mobility, and autonomy, allowed this presented linear ergometer design's progress.