Appendix H: Mockup Testing
Purpose
In order to gain an understanding of how our mockups function when used and whether or not they achieve their intended purpose, our team conducted first hand testing of the mockups, using them ourselves and simulating how the devices interact with someone experiencing scissor gait.
Methodology
In our testing, we used two of our mockups, the divider walker attachment mockup (Figure 16) and the accordion tubing mockup (Figure 17). While no members of our group are experiencing scissoring gait, and we did not have someone with the walking impairment to test these devices on, we attempted to simulate the gait impairment based off of our knowledge of the biomechanics of scissor gait. This was primarily done by attempting to cross our legs while wearing or using the devices.
Figure 16: Divider walker attachment
Figure 17: Accordion tubing device
Results
Mockup #1: Divider walker attachment
As shown in the video (Figure 18) of our testing, our team found that the walker attachment did effectively prevent the user’s legs from crossing. The wooden frame was relatively stable, with the crossbar serving as an effective addition to the design to prevent the device from moving too much and becoming unstable. The rope used to attach the frame did hold the device in place, however it showed signs of slipping after too much use. Finally, the padding on the divider between the legs of the user effectively prevented painful contact with the user and the frame.
Figure 18: Walker with Divider Mockup Demonstration
Mockup #2: Accordion Tubing
In our testing (Figure 19), we found that the device was semi-effective at preventing the legs from crossing. The velcro straps used to attach the device to the user were functional, although they were not very sturdy due to them being attached with tape. In testing, our team found the metal coils used in the tubing to give it its shape to be uncomfortable for the user. The foam padding we placed over it to prevent that discomfort was not enough to prevent the metal from pushing into the leg of the user. When the user attempted to cross their legs, there was minor resistance, but with enough force the user’s legs could cross with ease.
Figure 19: Accordion Device Mockup Demonstration
Conclusions and Limitations
Mockup #1: Divider walker attachment
Our testing of this mockup led our team to the following conclusions:
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The material used to hold the frame together should be more stable to ensure the device can sustain continued use.
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The padding on the divider is an effective way of making the device more comfortable for the user.
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The rope used to attach the frame to the walker, while effective, could be improved to male the device more sturdy and even more adjustable.
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With improvements to the material of the frame and the method of the attachment to the walker, the divider attachment could serve as a functional device for preventing scissor gait.
Mockup #1: Divider walker attachment
Our testing of this mockup led our team to the following conclusions:
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​Improvements need to be made to the comfort of the device, so the metal of the tubing does not cause pain for the user.
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The velcro straps effectively attach the device to the user, however they must be attached more permanently to the device to be used for a final prototype.
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While the accordion tubing provided some resistance to the user’s legs crossing, the tubing would either have to be air-tight or made from another material to provide enough resistance.
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