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Intended use and operation of the device
Operation of the device
The dynamic arm support system Dowing is a system that consists of several axes which are
interconnected via pivoting points. The axes are connected to a manually adjustable gravity
compensation mechanism. At the distal end of the system an arm fitting, elbow fitting and optional a
wrist support are attached. Dowing
is mounted on the ‘solid’ world (table or working chair). The under
arm of the user is placed in the arm fitting, and Dowing can support the weight of the under and partly
the upper arm. The axes of Dowing will support movements of the human underarm and hand.
Dowing has a robust design combined with low friction and low play. This is realised by using high
quality bearing systems combined with high accuracy mechanical parts which results in a smoothly
running system. Therefore little energy is required to introduce the intended movements. The smooth
running Dowing combined with the accurate fit of the arm fitting results in little muscle forces required
of the user. The kinematic chain of the axes results in a large range of motion. Gravity compensation
characteristics of the device can depending on individual requirements easily be adjusted
The intended users of the dynamic arm support Dowing are:
1. Persons challenged by muscular weakness causing the inability to perform essential Activities
of Daily Living (ADL) activities including eating, drinking, facial care, computer use.
Dowing’s
users are not requiring frequent or dynamic adjustments.
2. Persons challenged by excessive muscle functioning
– ditto.
3. Persons in the need of redistribution of pressure/forces - ditto.
4. Combinations of these.
5. Persons who do not suffer from one or more of the above mentioned medical conditions but
who are at risk for such conditions e.g. due to repetitive movements, work above shoulder
height or precision work. Being at risks may include the consequences of
Complaints of Arm
Neck and-or Shoulder (
CANS) and similar work related disorders.
In the need of a functional device requiring limited learning efforts.
Intended use of the device
Dowing is a medical device. It is primarily designed for persons having a need for compensation of
muscle force. Depending upon personal (dis)abilities Dowing may also diminish the effects of
excessive muscle functioning (guide spastic movements). Further, Dowing will redistribute pressures
and forces of the arm and shoulder concerned and can possibly diminish pain in the shoulder girdle .
Dowing can be used one- or two sided. Several properties of the user being the personal limitations,
possibilities combined with the needs of the user determine if one or two Dowings are required.
The user of Dowing can use this device in various environments like home, workplace, school or
institutional setting. A restricted tolerance of environmental humidity exists.
Dowing can be mounted on a table or working chair. Due to safety and functional reasons, Dowing
should not be mounted on a (electric) wheelchair.
The intended use of Dowing also includes the application as an ergonomic aid for persons who are at
risk for Complaints of Arm Neck and-or Shoulder (CANS), overload or strong fatigue due to
challenging working conditions, which may be due to continuous or frequent task performance above
shoulder level or performance of many static manual activities.
Dowing is not designed to be used in combinations of large forces. Dowing cannot be used as a
support when standing up or getting seated or as an autonomous lifting device (without supporting the
human arm).
Dowing is not designed to withstand impacts that can be introduced during collisions with a wall or
other objects. Also Dowing is not constructed to withstand high external vertical forces that can be
introduced for example by (abnormal use of) patient hoist systems.
