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Interface pressure measurement is today a most used technique for laboratory evaluation of support surfaces in prevention of pressure sores. This article describes the results of an experimental comparative evaluation of four modern pressure mapping systems (Tekscan, Xsensor, Novel and FSA) using a special loading device. The tests generated data on numerical accuracy, linearity and hysteresis. The results show that the accuracy of pressure mapping systems is still limited and results obtained from different systems can not be directly compared.

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A wheelchair seat cushion represents the interface between the wheelchair and the wheelchair driver and has to manage the force transmission and the stabilization between both of them. An additional very important requirement is the prevention of pressure ulcers by pressure relief and the transfer of humidity and heat away from the patient. The allocation of a cushion to the patient happens normally on the base of a subjective description of the cushion without any transparent decision rules. Consequently the quality of this procedure could be improved by a better description of the cushion, based on standardized laboratory tests and by the development of decision tools helping to identify the main efforts of the user. This article describes a procedure that allows the allocation of wheelchair seat cushions based on the characteristic of cushions from standardized laboratory tests and on the brief description of the user. Additionally the existing principles for wheelchair cushions are listed, described and compared. The possibilities to develop structured decision tools for wheelchair cushions are discussed.

Vergennes. VT 05491 USA Ahsrrocf-The results of a study examining an accelerometer mount used in a Helicopter Health Usage and Management System (HUMS) is presented. The accelerometer mount is an important component in the vibration measurement process, transmitting the vibration signature of the subject component to the accelerometer transducer. The effect of surface roughness is studied between the accelerometer mount and the subject component by generating a dimensionless transfer function between the accelerometer mount and a reference block for several surface conditions. The transfer functions and time domain results provide some insight into the vibration characteristics of the accelerometer mount. Multiple iterations performed for each test condition provide some statistical information. The results show that, within the test cases, surface roughnessis a higher order effect. The primary driver for variability in the data results from the installation. removal. and reinstallation of the accelerometer mount.

Additive manufacturing (AM) has continuously grown in recent decades. Enhanced quality, further development of technology, and fall in prices make AM applicable and capable for various industrial applications, also for the manufacture of medical devices. 3D printing offers the possibility for an unprecedented adaptation to the anatomy of each patient, generating medical devices on a case-by-case basis. In many jurisdictions, custom-made devices qualify for an exemption to pre-market approval standards. This regulation is called into question by new technologies, like AM. Therefore, this article compares the current regulatory requirements for custom-made devices in Europe, the United States, and Australia and discusses the impact on 3D printed devices. It concludes that not all jurisdictions have yet adjusted their regulatory framework for custom-made devices to technological advances. Remaining uncertainties must be eliminated in order to help manufacturers comply with the regulatory requirements, emphasizing key aspects of AM.