STRUCTURAL ANALYSIS OF A SUPPORT STRUCTURE FOR A PORTABLE DEEP PRESSURE DEVICE

The purpose of this course project is to use finite element analysis to determine the stress distribution and the deflection of a support structure for a pneumatic sensory integration device for autistic children. The results of this structural analysis are used to optimize the design of the support structure which positions air-filled bladders that are used to apply the pressure to the upper body of an autistic child.

[1]  J. Hinojosa,et al.  Effects of a weighted vest on attention to task and self-stimulatory behaviors in preschoolers with pervasive developmental disorders. , 2001, The American journal of occupational therapy : official publication of the American Occupational Therapy Association.

[2]  T. Grandin,et al.  Behavioral and physiological effects of deep pressure on children with autism: a pilot study evaluating the efficacy of Grandin's Hug Machine. , 1999, The American journal of occupational therapy : official publication of the American Occupational Therapy Association.