For whom:

Dynamic arm supports assist persons with limited arm function to move their arms and hands. These supports are mostly used by persons with muscle disorders or neurological or orthopedic disorders.

Purpose:

Dynamic arm supports help their users to reach, grab and manipulate again during daily activities such as eating, drinking, computer use, writing, play and kitchen and leisure activities. Also use in the workplace to improve working conditions is seen.

Use:

Dynamic arm supports help carry the weight of the arm thus relieving the shoulder area. This allows the user to move the arm against gravity in spite of limited function and power. FOCAL Meditech BV has re-invented dynamic arm support systems. The basic idea has been translated into different models.

FOCAL Meditech BV is a speciialist specializes in the design, production and supply of high- end feeding devices. We provide solutions for complex challenges related to self feeding caused by motor problems. For persons with limited arm function deployment of feeding devices based on the working principle of dynamic arm supports is often successful. In case of coordination problems the use of an aid (mechanical arm) that reduces the effects of tremor is common. If necessary manual self feeding or human assistance can be replaced by an advanced electronic feeding device. Many accessories are available like suited mugs and drinking standards.

Lack of arm function:

The electronic feeding device My Spoon was developed for persons without arm function or hand function. It uses robotics technology. The advanced apparatus picks up food with a spoon and fork in a safe and swift way without spilling and which is easy to learn. It can be operated in different ways. My Spoon is the result of 10 years of extensive development by Secom Co., Ltd. from Japan.

Loss of strength:

SLING, TOP and JAMIE are feeding devices that are based on the working principles of dynamic arm supports. They bear the weight of the arm and transfer forces from the shoulder and upper arm region towards the lower arm and hand. This enables the user to move his hand in space, grab objects like a fork or mug and bring it to his mouth. SLING is a device that approaches the user from above. TOP uses a horizontally supported splint that holds the arm, hinging carriers and an element for vertical support. JAMIE is a simple specialized arm support combined with an eating board.

Loss of coordination:

NELSON was developed for persons who have difficulties eating independently because of severe co-ordination problems caused by tremors or ataxia. This aid reduces spastic and uncoordinated movements and makes the independent use of an attached spoon possible. NELSON may look like other comparable products in the market. However, its tremor reducing mechanism is far developed based on state of the art technology and very adjustable. Likewise, the actions of the spoon in relation to the dimensions of the plate has intensively been studied resulting in a design that makes successful use even by very challenging users possible.

Our line of products changes constantly - we invite you to visit our website on a regular basis!

Jaco

Robotmanipulator Jaco is Focal's recent offer in the field of Assistive Robotics. Jaco is a state of the art wheelchair mounted robot. Jaco is very easy to use, robust and light. Jaco users control the system using three minimal joysticks but various other controls can be used and full integration in the operating system of many types of wheelchairs is possible. Individual adaptations are possible.