Development of a power assistive device for self-supported transfer motion

A power-assisting device is presented to help elderly patients and patients with disabilities transfer themselves from beds to wheelchairs. The device is intended to contribute to a more independent life for the patients and to greater utilization of their disabilities. The development of the device, which consists of an upper part capable of motion in a horizontal plane and a lower part capable of motion in a vertical plane, is discussed. The production method for the power assistance and motion guidance of this device is proposed. Finally, the testing of the performance of the developed system in a basic experiment is described.