Abstract:

Tecnológico de Monterrey has made efforts to create a positive and lasting impact on its community. Since the implementation of the Tec21 educational model, social impact has taken the spotlight as one of its core values. It is through the application of scientific and technical knowledge that we strive to design and create solutions that empower and improve the livelihoods of vulnerable sectors in our community. Therefore, the Faculty of Engineering has closely collaborated with the Association for Neurogenic Infancy (APIN, by its acronym in Spanish) for the development of a series of projects aimed at facilitating the rehabilitation and treatment of children with spina bifida. This condition is caused by an anomaly in the formation of the spinal cord during gestation and is characterized by paralysis and weakness in the lower half of the body.

In this study, a team of mechatronics engineering students has designed, manufactured, and introduced a device capable of replicating the sensation of standing upright on one's feet. The Inclination Table is an electrically powered apparatus that utilizes a linear actuator to transition the patient from a lying position to a standing one. While similar equipment is available in the market, the association found them to be overly bulky for the space available, with dimensions exceeding the proportions of the majority of their users. Consequently, a more compact design, specifically tailored for children, was proposed.

Additionally, the product includes an adjustable table for the use of didactic material during therapy sessions and a platform with an adjustable angle to accommodate the varying inclinations in the feet of each patient.

Keywords:

Social impact, Faculty of Engineering, Association for Neurogenic Infancy (APIN), spina bifida, rehabilitation, Inclination Table, adjustable features.