It is estimated that five in every 1,00,000 people in India suffer from amyotrophic laterals sclerosis (ALS), a rare, progressive and debilitating condition that weakens muscles and affects physical function. People with ALS and other neuromuscular disorders are known to suffer from the ‘dropped head’ condition, and being able to continue normal functions such as maintaining eye contact with others could improve their quality of life.
For the disabled
For Viswanath S. and Praveen Kumar G., final year students of biomedical engineering at SSN College of Engineering, Chennai, a visit to an institute supporting persons with disabilities sparked an idea. After two years of study, research and hard work, the duo has come up with an external aid for ALS patients — one that offers head, chin and neck support.
“The products that are currently available weigh one to three kgs and cost more than ₹ 40,000. With our aid, we aim to reduce both the cost and the weight, without compromising on the quality of support it provides,” says Viswanath. “We have been studying the biomechanics behind the device and have designed it using 3D-modelling software,” he adds.
The device is largely made of aluminium — which makes it comparatively light, at around 800 grams — and is designed in such a way that the head’s load is distributed equally over the thoracic and back region of the body. The product can be created in multiple sizes, with adjustable height. Additional features such as cushion support and nylon straps aim to increase comfort and reduce difficulties in swallowing, speaking or breathing while wearing the aid. The team estimates that the cost of producing a piece could be around ₹1,000.
Way forward
With initial funding from SSN, the students are obtaining validation from the National Institute for Empowerment of Persons with Multiple Disabilities and the Spastics Society of Tamilnadu. Trials are being conducted with patients, and the aid has been constantly modified based on user feedback. “Once we are satisfied with the trials, we plan to mass-produce the device in collaboration with orthotic and prosthetic centres,” hopes Viswanath. The duo is open to prospective collaborations to scale up production.
With a patent being filed and the process of validation and approval underway, the device is close become a reality. “We believe that the aid can help patients lead normal lives,” signs off Praveen Kumar.
