뇌성마비 아동 보행보조기 디자인 개발

Background: Restrictions on walking ability in children with cerebral palsy negatively affect not only physical development but also social interaction and emotional growth. However, the currently used pedestrian braces for children cause psychological rejection due to their design focused on medical functions, and it is difficult to provide continuous motivation for their use. This study aims to develop the design of a walking aid that reflects the physical and psychological characteristics of children with cerebral palsy and promote the voluntary. Methods: Preteen aged 7–12 (height 110 cm - 140 cm) with cerebral palsy were targeted, and design standards were established based on SizeKorea data. In addition, by analyzing preteen 's physical characteristics and play activities, a design plan for a walking aid that can induce repetitive and natural physical activity was developed. In order to increase the psychological acceptability of the preteen, a curved shape, a lively color, and an intuitive manipulation method were applied to the design. Results: The developed walking aid consists of a spherical stem with an upper body support function, an arc-shaped handle that induces natural movement, an inner tube and saddle that can be adjusted according to the height and physical condition of the user, and a foldable structure that maximizes convenience. In addition, by breaking away from medical design and actively introducing visual and tactile elements of interest, it promoted preteen's continuous participation and voluntary physical activity. Conclusion: The play-based walking aid design proposed in this study is expected to provide both psychological and emotional satisfaction as well as functionality, enabling continuous and voluntary participation in walking training for cerebral palsy preteen.