PNEUMATIC ASSEMBLY FOR IMPROVED MOTOR SKILLS

A prototype of a system has been designed and built that uses four miniature pneumatic cylinders regulated by a single matrix valve which, after detection of impact to a specific segment (using vibration sensors), moves the appropriate cylinder to hit the ball into the vertical plastic tube. The system may be used to improve visual capabilities and motor skills in children and adults. The subject carefully watches the movement of the ball and does not allow it to freely bounce off the surface, but instead by watching the movement assesses onto which of the four segments the ball will fall, and then activates the movement of that individual cylinder. Activation is performed using four buttons that are separated as a control panel.

The innovative technology used in the construction of the fast and compact valve matrix enables the control of movement of multiple activators at the same time, with exceptionally rapid valve response to the electric control signal. The use of miniature pneumatic cylinders, in combination with rapid matrix valves enables automation of the process, with exceptionally fast dynamics and low energy consumption. An Arduino microcontroller is used as the control device.