A flexible-spoke non-pneumatic tyre for manual wheelchairs.

This study combines laboratory testing with computer modelling to demonstrate, for the first time, the applicability of flexible-spoke non-pneumatic tyre (FS-NPT) technology in wheelchairs. Like existing solid non-pneumatic tyres, FS-NPTs are puncture-proof and will reduce the burden of tyre maintenance. Unlike existing solid tyres, FS-NPT performance is based on the properties of flexible structures (spokes), such as honeycombs, which can deform to offer superior cushioning and return to their original shape upon unloading.

A quantitative analysis of optimum design for rigid ankle foot orthoses: The effect of thickness and reinforcement design on stiffness.

Background: An ankle foot orthosis (AFO) which is prescribed to be rigid should only deform a small amount to achieve its clinical goals. Material thickness and the design of reinforcing features can significantly affect AFO rigidity, but their selection remains based on anecdotal evidence.

Objectives: To quantify the effect of these parameters on AFO stiffness and to set the basis for quantitative guidelines for the design optimisation of rigid AFOs.

Comparative study of the strength characteristics of a novel wood-plastic composite and commonly used synthetic casting materials.

Background: Woodcast® is a wood-plastic composite casting material that becomes pliable and self-adhesive when heated to 65 °C and returns to being weightbearing as it cools down. The present study aims to test whether this novel non-toxic casting material is strong enough for clinical use by comparing its strength against materials that are already used in weightbearing casting applications such as total contact casts.

Methods: The strength of Woodcast® samples was compared against the strength of two commonly used synthetic casting materials (Delta-Cast®, OrthoTape).