the-womper

Bone loss prevention is a problem both on earth with the elderly and bedridden, and in space. Diet and exercise solutions haven't kept astronauts from losing bone at an increasing rate the longer they're in space. Studies show that impact to the skeletal system is needed to provide bones with the stimulus to repair and maintain strength and health. The Wearable Osteogenic Mechanical Podiatric Electrical Resonator, or W.O.M.P.E.R., is a device that can be strapped to a person's feet. It delivers a measured, repeated impact to the feet that simulates what would be experienced on earth during a quick walk around the block.

Uses: A small, light version of this simple device could be strapped to an astronaut's feet while they go about their business on the ISS or in future long range space missions. This device could be built into wheelchair foot rests to prevent bone loss in paraplegics. Elderly or sick people could strap one to their feet while in bed or sitting comfortably knitting or playing Sudoku (That’s what my mother likes to do.).

Construction: Our prototype is quite large, made from wood and powered by an electric motor scavenged from an air compressor, but production models could be much smaller, made from much lighter plastics, and powered by virtually anything, including a hand crank if someone wanted to combine exercise with WOMPER impact. The design is very simple and could possibly be 3-D printed. An alternate design could also be created with electro-magnets or voice coils.

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