The U-Boost - Erik Kondo

The U-Boost is a micro DIY parallel bar made of 1" schedule 40 PVC. It can be used in by paraplegics (or people with similar function) in a variety of ways.

• To provide leverage for a Floor-to-Couch or Floor-to-Wheelchair transfer.

• As an exercise prop, dips for example.

• To aid stretches on the floor.

Many wheelchair users are unable to take advantage of the multiple benefits from getting out of their wheelchair on to the floor. For example, typically people (in Western countries) have a living room with a carpet and a couch. This is a convenient location for in home activities, playing games with children, and certain exercises/stretches.

The U-Boost provides a portable handle that can be used for both getting from the wheelchair to the floor and more importantly for getting back up. Because a couch is usually lower in height than a wheelchair it provides a mid station for returning to the wheelchair from the floor.

Depending upon the type of transfer used, the U-Boost can be used in a variety of ways. The video below shows how I use the U-Boost to assist my transfer.

The U-Boost is relatively simple to make by using 1" PVC sections and fittings as shown below:

• (4) 1.75" sections (fitting connectors)

• (2) 8" sections (side posts)

• (1) 6" section (handle)

• (2) T-Fittings (footings)

• (2) 90 degree elbows ()

• (4) End Caps (footings)

The exact configuration of the U-Boost can be customized as needed. It is important to make sure that if the height is increases, the footings are also proportionally lengthen to provide stability.