Background
Sailing - what it is/ what it requires from the user
Boats can range from 1 person to tens of people
Multiple sails to be controlled
Controlling of sails can range from pull/releasing a rope a couple inches to pulling in several feet of rope
Sailing can occur in both fresh and salt bodies of water
The inconsistencies created by the wind make sailing a new experience every time
Handicap with paralysis - what it affects
Paralysis is different from patient to patient, even with the same type of injury
No control of lower extremities
No hand grip strength
Arm strength can still be present but possibly at a decreased maximum
Figure 1: Paul's sailboat used for competition.
Problem Statement
Paul is a competitive sailor with limited strength in his fingers due to a spinal cord injury.
Our goal was to design a rope gripping mechanism for him to use while sailing.
Requirements:
Must hold up to 80lbs of pulling force
Must hold 3/8” and 3/16” ropes
Salt water resistant
Easy to put on
Cannot interfere with wrist flexion
One handed device as not to interfere with steering with the other hand
Release mechanism for safety precautions