TM GAIT MASTER II ADULT Use r s Manual 1
TABLE OF CONTENTS Preface 3 Design Goals 3 Components 4 Precautions 6 Assembly 7 General Information 7 Assembly Instructions 9 Fitting Instructions Measuring The User 14 Preparing The Unit 15 Options 2 14 22 Gas & Coil Springs 22 Abduction Seat 23 Front Caster Anti-Swivel Lock & No-Backs 23 Head, Neck, & Shoulder Support 23 Seat Support Frame Only 23 Pelvic Support 24 Getting In & Out 24 Assisted Entry 24 Unassisted Entry 24 Assisted Exit Unassisted Exit 31 31 Fine
READ ENTIRE MANUAL BEFORE USE! PREFACE This booklet provides information to professionals for the setup and use of the adult Gait Master . The benefits of using the system can be profound, not only in terms of gait development, but also in terms of increasing the user s independence, self-confidence, and social interaction. The Gait Master provides upper body support along with weight relief as the user develops gait skill and tolerance.
COMPONENTS Refer to Figure 1 1. Sternum Support 2. Thoracic/Upper Back Support 3. Rear Seat Pad 4. Seat 5. Upper Frame (silver) 6. Brake Handle 7. Caster Anti-Swivel Lock 8. Caster Wheel 9. Bumper Wheel 10. Pull Knob 11. Lower Frame (colored) 12. Gas Spring Height Adjustment Lever 13.
1 2 3 13 4 12 5 11 6 10 9 7 8 Figure 1 5
PRECAUTIONS 1. Standing and or gait training is only carried out under the prescription of the user s physician along with the recommendations for duration, frequency, and contraindications. 2. A therapist must always be present while the Gait Master is in use, unless a physician and therapist have authorized independent use of the Gait Master to the user. 3. The Gait Master can tip over if used by a tall individual with poor upper body control. 4.
ASSEMBLY General Information Tools Required 3/16 Allen Wrench (included in tool pouch) 5/32 Allen Wrench (included in tool pouch) Tape Measure Sliding Knobs The sliding knobs are found on the thoracic ring support, and the rear seat pad. These knobs slide along the length of the tube, and automatically lock into place. Push the round black knob along the length of the tube and away from the hinge joint. Rotate the hinge joint outward and release the knob. Refer to Figure 2.
Pull Knobs Pull knobs are found on the lower frame. Behind the round knob is an X shaped slot. These slots act as a guide for a retaining pin attached to the pull knob. Pull the round black knob out so the retaining pin is free. Rotate the knob 90 degrees so the retaining pin lines up with other slot. Release the knob and allow the retaining pin to slide into the slot. The pull knob is in the locked position when the retaining pin is in the deeper of the two X slots. Refer to Figure 3.
Allen Screws All other adjustments are comprised of allen screws. Insert the short end of the appropriate allen wrench into the socket of the allen screw. Tighten or loosen the screw by turning the allen wrench. Figure 4 Assembly Instructions Unpack and unwrap all of the parts. Depending on your specific order, your parts may differ than the ones shown below.
Unwrap the two black straps that keep the caster legs together, and rotate the legs to an open position as shown in Figure 1. The caster legs do not automatically lock into place. Put away the straps by wrapping them around the leg and looping the strap through the two D-rings. Lock the caster legs in place. Rotate the rear leg pull knobs so the retaining pin is aligned with the deepest slot. Release the knob. It is ok if the knob does not slide all the way into the slot.
When changing between the 10 and 18-degree angles for the front leg, make sure both knobs on the front leg are in the unlocked position before rotating the leg. It is only required to lock the knob that relates to the desired leg angle position. If the silver and colored frames are not together: Confirm that the pull knobs near the top of the square tubes are in the unlocked position (retaining pin is in the shallow slot) as shown in Figure Figure 7 7.
Insert the upper frame into the lower frame. Make sure the U shape of the silver round tube is pointing toward the front of the lower frame. Insert the silver vertical square tube over the black round gas spring. Refer to Figure 10. Continue to slide the upper frame down and into the square tube of the lower frame. Fixed inside the larger square tube of the lower frame are plastic inserts. These pieces fit snugly between the two square tubes.
Rotate the thoracic support so the front pads are about 4 inches (10 cm) lower than the rear curved pads. Loosen the four allen screws on the central block, only one or two turns is necessary. Rotate the support arms and tighten all four allen screws firmly. Rotate Screws Figure 11 Insert the center vertical column into the top of the square opening in the center of the upper frame. Remove the end-cap from the column. Slide the center vertical column into the square opening.
Attach the seat to the center vertical column. Slide the open square tube attached to the seat frame up around the center vertical column. Make sure the nuts attached to the allen screws are aligned so they can slide into the groove of the center column. Stop when about a 1/2 inch (1.5 cm) of the column extends below the square tube. Firmly tighten the allen screws until the seat is securely in place. Figure 13 Attach the end cap of the center column. Push the cap into place until it cannot go any further.
Preparing The Unit The design of the Gait Master allows for a wide range of users. This section explains the basic steps in getting the unit in an arrangement that will allow the user to comfortably get in/out and use the device. Additional fine-tuning can be done based on preference and user feedback (see Fine Tuning section). During preparation, the user should NOT be placed in the Gait Master at any time! First, make sure the upper frame is free so slide up and down inside of the lower frame.
Position 1, the handle lays toward the left of the unit. It can rotate, but does not actuate the gas spring (Figure 16a). Position 2, the handle is in a vertical locked position. It cannot rotate, and does not actuate the gas spring (Figure 16b). Position 3, the handle is in a vertical un-locked position. It can rotate, and will actuate the gas spring when rotated toward the right of the right of the unit (Figure 16c).
Preparing The Unit (con.) Adjust the angle of the sternum support to a position similar to Figure 17. Use the allen wrench to loosen/ tighten the four screws. The angle of the sternum pad can be adjusted further once the user is in the unit. Do not place the user in the unit at this time! Screws Figure 17 Adjust the distance between the sternum pad and the seat so it is equal to measurement #2 as shown in Figure 18 by moving the seat frame up/down on the center column.
Adjust the height of the thoracic support so about 7 inches (18 cm) separates the sternum pad and front thoracic pad. Loosen the four allen screws located on the center block to slide the thoracic support up/down as shown in Figure 20. The location of the thoracic support can be adjusted further when the user is in the unit. Do not place the user in the unit at this time! ~7in Figure 20 Figure 19 Adjust the width of the thoracic support so it is equal to measurement #3 as shown in Figure 21.
Adjust the depth of the thoracic support so it is equal to measurement #4 as shown in Figure 22. Loosen/tighten the two allen screws located on the underside of the foam padding. Figure 22 #4 The width and depth of the thoracic support can be adjusted further when the user is in the unit. Do not place the user in the unit at this time! Additionally, the thoracic support can be tilted in any angle to maximize proper support. A good starting angel is about 20 degrees up from the floor.
For unicycle style type seats: The seat can be slid along the seat support frame. Start by having the nose of the seat approximately 1inch (2.5 cm) from the center vertical column. To adjust the seat position, loosen the T-screw, and slide the seat (Figure 24, a). Then, tighten the screw. The pitch of the seat can be adjusted. Loosen the four nuts located under the seat (tool not provided) and tilt the seat. Tighten the nuts (Figure 24,b).
To adjust the pad front/back, disengage the sliding lock behind the seat, and allow the pad to swing down (Figure 26). Loosen the now exposed hex head bolt until the tube it is attached to is free to slide (tool not included). Move the bar to the desired position, and tighten the allen screw. Swing the pad back up into place. IMPORTANT: Make sure the rear seat pad arm can lock back into place after each rear seat pad adjustment! Figure 25 Figure 26 The basic setup of the Gait Master is now complete.
OPTIONS Gas & Coil Springs When a Gait Master is ordered, we request the user s weight in order to assist you in choosing the correct gas and coil springs for the unit. The main purpose of the gas springs is to allow for easy adjustment of the seat height while the user is in the unit, weight-relief for the legs, and to provide supportive assistance to the user during the sitto-stand and stand-to-sit positions.
Front Caster Anti-Swivel Lock This option allows either of the front casters to be locked so they only track in a forward/reverse direction. These locks are similar in appearance and usage to the standard rear caster swivel locks. No-Backs No-Backs prevent the rear wheels from rotating backward. The rear swivel locks need to be engaged at the same time as the no-backs to keep the Gait Master from rolling backward.
Pelvic Support The pelvic support is a wide padded belt-like support that securely controls the user s pelvic area. It is width and depth adjustable, and has velcro and snap-buckle closures. GETTING IN & OUT Assisted Entry Same as unassisted entry, except a therapist provides assistance at all times to safely get in.
Lock both of the rear wheel breaks by pressing down and slightly in on the two brake levers (Figure 28). The brake handle will self-lock. Unlocked Locked Figure 28 If the rear caster swivel lock is desired, use the pull knob on the back of the caster to lock them in place. Align the retaining pin with the deeper slot (Figure 29). Make sure the swivel is locked! Rotate the caster until the pull knob pin mates with the hole on the caster fork.
Lower the rear seat pad. Pull up on the black round knob on the end of the seat support bar, and allow the pad to swing down and hang (Figures 30 & 31). Figure 30 Figure 31 Open the thoracic support. Pull the black round knobs toward the rear of the unit, and swing the arms to the front (Figures 32 & 33).
Getting In Approach from the rear, and get as close to the seat as possible (Figure 34). However, do not get so close so that the chair you are sitting on blocks the swing up of the rear seat pad. One option is to have the rear seat pad rest on top of the chair seat and in-between the user s legs. This allows the Gait Master to be closer to the chair, and will not hinder the swing up of the pad.
Grab a the silver round tube of the Gait Master with both hands (Figure 36). In your own best way, stand/lift yourself out of the chair, over the back of the Gait Master s seat, and down into the seat (Figure 37). Do not let go of the frame! Figure 36 Figure 37 Lean forward and rest against the sternum pad for support (Figure 38). Let go of the silver frame with your non-dominant hand only, and close the side of the thoracic support of that same side (Figure 39).
Grab the silver frame so that the just closed thoracic side support is between your torso and inner-arm (Figure 40). With your dominant arm let go of the silver frame, and reach around to the back of the seat. Swing up the rear seat pad (Figure 41). Make sure the pad locks into place! Figure 40 Figure 41 Close the other side of the thoracic support (Figure 42). Make sure it locks into place! You may now completely let go of the silver frame.
Push the gas spring handle to the right as you straighten your legs to a standing position * (Figures 43 & 44). When you are at the peak of your stance, release the lever. The seat will now be at the standing height, and you will feel an upward pressure from the seat. If you totally relax your legs, the seat will only move down about 2 to 3 inches (5.1 to 7.6 cm). When you are ready to move, release the two rear caster brakes. Pull up on the two brake handles (Figure 45).
Assisted Exit Same as unassisted exit, except a therapist provides assistance at all times to safely get out. Unassisted Exit CAUTION! Unassisted exit is ONLY allowed with the permission of a THERAPIST, and ONLY after the user has gotten in and out of the unit with the assistance of a therapist. Getting Out Position the Gait Master so that a FIXED chair is directly behind you (Figure 46), and lock both of the rear brake levers (Figure 28).
Push and hold the gas spring handle to the right, and relax your legs so all your weight is on the seat of the Gait Master . Your body weight will push the seat down * (Figures 44 & 47). When the seat stops, release the gas spring lever. *See note on page 30 Figure 47 Grab the silver frame with your non-dominant hand. Do not let go until stated to do so! With your dominant hand, release the thoracic ring of that side (Figure 48).
Grab the silver frame with your dominant hand. Do not let go until stated to do so! Let go of the frame with your nondominant hand, and release the other side of the thoracic ring (Figure 50).
FINE TUNING After preliminary adjustments are made, and the user has gotten into the unit, some readjustment may be needed.
Common adjustments made to the Gait Master someone is in it include: while Thoracic width and depth: Use the screws on the underside the pads to adjust the width and/or depth (Figures 57 & 58). If the user does not have good upper body control, it is suggested to have the thoracic support fit snugly around the chest to prevent extreme shifts of their center of gravity. Also, you may adjust the angle of the thoracic support by loosening the screws in the center clamp block.
Spring Lockout The upper frame and lower frame can be locked-out so there is no vertical movement between the two frames. This can be done while someone is in or out of the unit. Lock the frames together: Figure 60 Orient the center knob on the left and right side of the lower frame into its locked position (Figure 60). Push down on the upper frame until the knobs click into place (Figure 61). The upper frame should now not Figure 61 be able to move up or down.
CAUTION! The Gait Master in its vertical position with the caster legs collapsed is VERY UNSTABLE! Do not store the unit in the vertical position without taking precautions to prevent tipping, as damage may result! Swing the legs in to reduce overall length: Lock the frames together (Figures 60 & 61). Undo the straps on the rear caster legs. Unlock the two left side leg swivel locks. Gently, lay the unit on its left side (Figure 62).
Having the upper silver frame lowered into the lower colored frame along with the caster legs swung-in is sufficient for most storage/transportation needs. However, the Gait Master can be further collapsed if needed. Lower the center vertical column to reduce overall height: This may be done in addition to the caster leg collapse. The thoracic support may also be raised on the center column to reduce the height even more, and should be done first (Figure 20).
Remove the center vertical column to reduce height: This will basically disassemble the unit to look very similar to Figure 5. Take off the end cap on the bottom of the central vertical frame (Figure 66). The end cap may fit snugly, and could take some effort to get off. Figure 66 Loosen the socket screws on the seat frame, and slide the seat frame down off of the center column (Figure 67). Loosen the socket screws on the silver frame, and slide the center column up and out (Figure 68).
TECHNICAL DATA Specifications: Gait Master II - Adult (Figure 69) Weight Of Unit: 44.4 lbs (20.1 kg) Max User Height: 72 in / 6 ft (183 cm) Max User Weight*: 220 lbs (100 kg) Seat Height (1): 24 to 37 in (61 to 94 cm) Sternum Height (2): 35 to 60 in (89 to 152 cm) Width** (3): 28 or 31.9 in (71 or 81 cm) Length (4): 35.8 in (91 cm) Rigid Length (5): 33.7 in (86 cm) Wheelbase (6): 27.9 in (71 cm) Frame Width (7): 18.
Materials Frame: Parts: Padding: Fabric: Bumpers: Wheels: Powder-coated steel tube Stainless steel tube Black anodized aluminum Zink plated steel Powder-coated steel Black anodized aluminum Neoprene foam, spongy foam Nylon packcloth Solid gray cushion rubber with delrin bearing Solid gray cushion rubber with double seal ball bearings MAINTENANCE Keep the unit clean. All parts can be washed with a mild concentration of soap and water. Rinse and dry with a towel. Check weekly for loose screws and nuts.
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839 Albion Ave P.O. Box 70 Burley, ID 83318 Phone: (208) 878-3840 (800) 543-4769 Fax: (208) 878-3841 info@mulhollandinc.com www.mulhollandinc.
