Introduction The Cleveland FES Center fabricates prototype implantable research devices that are intended for use in human feasibility studies conducted under several Investigational Device Exemptions (IDEs). In 1991, the Technical Development Laboratory (TDL) was established to facilitate the design and development of implantable hardware required for clinical studies within the Cleveland FES Center. The Technical…
The Dynamic Arm Simulator (DAS) is being developed to provide a realistic simulation of the human arm. Modeling and simulation projects continue to develop an advanced mathematical model of the mechanics of the human shoulder and arm. We use this model in simulations to determine which muscles are most important for restoring particular movements, to develop…
Universal Control Module The Universal External Control Unit (UECU) operating system allows the downloading of user applications and parameters as well as real-time control from a host PC using Mathworks software (Simulink Real Time). The UECU is powered through an internal rechargeable battery, which can provide five hours of continuous operation, and an external battery…
Background Neuroprosthetic devices are powerful tools providing life sustaining and functional enhancement for individuals with central nervous system disorders, such as spinal cord injury and stroke. In general, a neuroprosthetic system should provide: The robust functions that users demand Understandable and intuitive tools that clinicians need to implement those functions The technical transparency for surgeons…
Stimulating Electrodes Epimysial and Intramuscular Both electrode types have multi-stranded 316 stainless steel conductors helically-wound in tandem from the electrode to the connector. The helically-wound cable is covered with a silicone tube (“closed helix”). For the epimysial electrode, the silicone-encased cable terminates onto a 4mm diameter platinum-iridium disc molded into a medical-grade dacron-reinforced silicone substrate…
Technology Programs Overview The Cleveland FES Center has the ability to conceive, fabricate, test, and produce advanced technologies addressing clinical applications. Our technological capabilities are divided into two segments; innovation and technical. The innovation group is charged with identifying the cutting edge techniques, materials and concepts from across the industry for possible inclusion into FES applications. The technical…
Longitudinal Observation of Myoelectric Upper Limb Orthosis Use among Veterans with Upper Limb Impairment The specific aims of this project are to evaluate therapeutic effects of the myoelectric upper limb orthosis, and to evaluate functional effects of the myoelectric upper limb orthosis. About This Study The main objective of this research study is to document functional…
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is caused by external physical force that may produce a diminished or altered state of consciousness, which results in an impairment of cognitive abilities or physical functioning. Mild TBI may cause temporary dysfunction of brain cells. More severe TBI can result in bruising, torn tissues, bleeding and other physical damage to…
Nerve Conduction Block Utilizing High Frequency Alternating Current (HFAC) The goal of this program is to develop a new method for blocking the conduction of nerve signals on peripheral nerves. About This Study The goal of this program is to develop a new method for blocking the conduction of nerve signals on peripheral nerves. We…
Pain Program Overview Shoulder pain accounts for 16% of all musculoskeletal complaints in the healthy adult population and results in 12 million visits to physician offices per year. Subacromial impingement syndrome (SIS), shown below, is the most common cause of shoulder pain. Conservative treatments include rest, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, physical therapy, and corticosteroid injections. Approximately…