Atlas Ernie and Bert User manual

Postal address
Atlas Revalidatie Techniek BV
PO Box 106
5370 AC Ravenstein
The Netherlands
Visiting address
Korte Stukken 7
5371 MN Ravenstein
The Netherlands
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
www.atlas-rehab.nl
[e-mail]
E
Er rn ni ie e a an nd d B Be er rt t
Ventral standing frames
May 2008

Ernie and Bert User Guide
Foreword
No part of this User Guide may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or published, in any form or by any means, electronic,
mechanical, photocopy, recording or otherwise, without the prior written permission of Atlas Revalidatie Techniek BV.
© 2008 Atlas Revalidatie Techniek B.V.
2
F
Fo or re ew wo or rd d
This user guide is intended for parents and/or supervisors of children who use the Ernie or Bert
ventral standing frames.
The Ernie and the Bert both bear the CE marking, which indicates that they meet European safety
requirements.
The settings of these standing frames are adjusted by the dealer prior to delivery. This user guide
subsequently helps you to make the most important daily adjustments to the standing frame, thus
enabling the child for whom it is intended to make optimal use of it.
The user guide contains a great many photographs and illustrations that will facilitate finding the
adjustment facilities on the standing frame.
Your experiences with the Ernie and the Bert are important for their continual improvement. If you
have remarks or suggestions for improvement of these products, please contact us via:
Postal address:
Atlas Revalidatie Techniek BV
Antwoordnummer 3509
5370 ZX Ravenstein
The Netherlands
Internet:
www.atlas-rehab.nl
[email protected]
Read this user guide carefully.

Ernie and Bert User Guide
Contents
No part of this User Guide may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or published, in any form or by any means, electronic,
mechanical, photocopy, recording or otherwise, without the prior written permission of Atlas Revalidatie Techniek BV.
© 2008 Atlas Revalidatie Techniek B.V.
3
C
Co on nt te en nt ts s
1. THE ERNIE AND THE BERT................................................................................................................................. 4
2. SAFETY...................................................................................................................................................................... 6
2.1 S AFETY INSTRUCTIONS ........................................................................................................................................ 6
2.2 I MMEDIATE DANGER ............................................................................................................................................ 6
3. INITIAL USE ............................................................................................................................................................. 7
3.1 T RANSFERRING THE CHILD TO THE STANDING FRAME .......................................................................................... 7
3.2 T RANSFERRING THE CHILD FROM THE STANDING FRAME ..................................................................................... 7
4. OPERATION ............................................................................................................................................................. 8
4.1 D AILY ADJUSTMENTS ........................................................................................................................................... 8
4.1.1 The brakes...................................................................................................................................................... 8
4.1.2 The total height .............................................................................................................................................. 9
4.1.3 The angle at which the child stands ............................................................................................................... 9
4.1.4 The chest band ............................................................................................................................................... 9
4.1.5 The pelvic derotation band or pelvic band .................................................................................................... 9
4.1.6 Removing, fastening and adjusting the depth of the sacral support (optional in the standard version) ...... 10
4.1.7 Securing the child’s feet in the shoe holders................................................................................................ 10
4.1.8 The height and angle of the tray table ......................................................................................................... 10
4.1.9 Changing the cover plate of the tray table................................................................................................... 11
4.2 S TANDARD SETTINGS ( IT IS ADVISABLE TO HAVE THESE SETTINGS FIXED BY A PARAMEDIC ) ............................. 12
4.2.1 The height of the sacral support (holder) (optional in the standard version).............................................. 12
4.2.2 The height and depth of the pelvic support .................................................................................................. 12
4.2.3 The height of the chest support .................................................................................................................... 13
4.2.4 The height, width and depth of the leg supports .......................................................................................... 13
4.2.5 The height and width of the shoe holders..................................................................................................... 15
4.2.6 Correcting the angle of the feet.................................................................................................................... 16
5. MAINTENANCE ..................................................................................................................................................... 17
6. REPAIRS .................................................................................................................................................................. 17
7. WARRANTY............................................................................................................................................................ 17
8. TECHNICAL DATA ............................................................................................................................................... 18
8.1 D IMENSIONS OF THE STANDING FRAMES ............................................................................................................ 18
8.2 U PHOLSTERY ..................................................................................................................................................... 18
8.3 O PTIONS ............................................................................................................................................................. 18

Ernie and Bert User Guide
1. The Ernie and the Bert
No part of this User Guide may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or published, in any form or by any means, electronic,
mechanical, photocopy, recording or otherwise, without the prior written permission of Atlas Revalidatie Techniek BV.
© 2008 Atlas Revalidatie Techniek B.V.
4
1
1. . T Th he e E Er rn ni ie e a an nd d t th he e B Be er rt t
The Ernie is the small, playful version of the ventral standing frame and the Bert is the medium-
sized version. As a result of their functionality and enormous versatility, these standing frames have
been well known within the field of child rehabilitation for years. Because they can be tilted from 60
to 90 degrees, a child can be verticalised (be placed in an erect standing position) gradually. The tilt
adjustment is especially intended to promote stretching of the trunk.
The Ernie is suitable for children with a height of 65 to 105 cm and the Bert is suitable for those with
a height of 95 to 150 cm.
Support
The child is secured in position using a chest support with band, a unique pelvic support that can be
adjusted in depth, flexible leg supports and shoe holders.
The Ernie FLEX and the Bert FLEX
In addition to the standard Ernie and Bert, there are also innovative versions available: the Ernie
FLEX and the Bert FLEX. These standing tables have a flexible chest support and a flexible pelvic
support for additional user convenience. The supports are completely flexible and the ideal fit can
be realised for every child as a result. The supports enclose the trunk and pelvis, which means that
side pads are no longer needed.
Derotation band
A standard feature of the Ernie and the Bert models is a derotation band that is used to secure the
child’s pelvis in position. The derotation band prevents rotation of the pelvis. The band is equipped
with a colour code to simplify its use. The derotation band is an optional feature of the Ernie FLEX
and the Bert FLEX.
Sacral support
A standard feature of the Ernie FLEX and the Bert FLEX is a sacral support that is also used to
secure the child’s pelvis in position. The sacral support is optional in the case of the basic, standard
Ernie and Bert models.
Tray table
The tray table encourages the child to be more active when he or she is in the standing frame. The
tray table has a play bowl and cover plate. This plate also serves as a surface for the child to play
on and has Velcro loop strips on one side and a washable drawing board on the other.
The standard features of the Ernie and the Bert
are as follows:
•Chest support with band for securing the child in
position;
•Pelvic support with derotation band, the depth of
the support is adjustable;
•Flexible leg supports;
•Shoe holders with safety straps;
•Set of wedges for correcting the angle of the feet;
•Tray table with bowl and cover plate for the child
to play on.
The standard features of the Ernie FLEX and the
Bert FLEX are as follows (see illustration on the
left):
a) Flexible chest support with band for securing the
child in position;
a
b
d
e
g
c

Ernie and Bert User Guide
Foreword
No part of this User Guide may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or published, in any form or by any means, electronic,
mechanical, photocopy, recording or otherwise, without the prior written permission of Atlas Revalidatie Techniek BV.
© 2007 Atlas Revalidatie Techniek B.V.
5
b) Flexible pelvic support, the depth of which is adjustable;
c) Sacral support;
d) Flexible leg supports;
e) Shoe holders with safety straps;
f) Set of wedges for correcting the angle of the feet
(not visible);
g) Tray table with bowl and cover plate for the child to play on.

Ernie and Bert User Guide
2. Safety
No part of this User Guide may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or published, in any form or by any means, electronic,
mechanical, photocopy, recording or otherwise, without the prior written permission of Atlas Revalidatie Techniek BV.
© 2008 Atlas Revalidatie Techniek B.V.
6
2
2. . S Sa af fe et ty y
Atlas has paid a great deal of attention to the design of this standing frame and the child’s safety;
the settings are adjusted professionally prior to the initial use of the frame. It is, however, imperative
that the following safety instructions be observed by the child’s parents and supervisors to
guarantee that it is used safely.
2.1 Safety instructions
a) First read this user guide and test the standing frame before it is used;
b) Never leave the child alone in the standing frame and always supervise its use;
c) Ensure that all fastenings and parts used to secure the child in position are properly tightened;
d) Tighten the adjusting screws and clamps firmly and check them after each adjustment;
e) Only use the standing frame on a flat surface;
f) Always put the brakes on at least two of the four wheels;
g) The standing frame may only be used inside;
h) The standing frame may not be used for transport purposes;
i) Do not allow other children to play with the standing frame or ride on it;
j) Adjustments may only be made by the child’s parents or carers. Adjustments may not be made
with the child in the standing frame unless absolutely necessary;
k) The child may become dizzy, always bear this in mind;
l) Increase the period for which the child uses the standing frame slowly (in consultation with the
therapist);
m) If the child has developed and grown, check that the standing frame does not cause discomfort
by pinching or squeezing him or her;
n) If the child has grown, only change the settings in consultation with the therapist;
o) Ensure that you adopt a comfortable position when helping the child in the standing frame for
long periods of time;
p) Never use the maximum height, width or depth to ensure a sturdy connection;
q) Do not exceed the maximum user weight of 40 kg (Ernie) or 65 kg (Bert);
r) Any service carried out by a person who has not been authorised by Atlas will invalidate the
warranty and Atlas will no longer be liable for injuries and/or damage.
Safety instructions “b” and “c” are repeated on the standing frame in the form of a warning sticker
(see figure below). Ensure that this text remains legible at all times. If necessary, request a new
copy of the sticker.
2.2 Immediate danger
Practice the following operations so that you can remove the child from the standing frame rapidly in
the event of fire or other immediate danger.
Act quickly in the event of fire or other immediate danger:
a) Loosen the shoe holder safety straps, and the chest and pelvic bands;
b) Hold the child firmly and loosen the sacral support holder;
c) Lift the child out of the standing frame.
Ensure that all the fastening
s and parts
used to secure the child in position are
properly tightened.
Never leave the user alone in the standing
frame.

Ernie and Bert User Guide
3. Initial use
No part of this User Guide may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or published, in any form or by any means, electronic,
mechanical, photocopy, recording or otherwise, without the prior written permission of Atlas Revalidatie Techniek BV.
© 2008 Atlas Revalidatie Techniek B.V.
7
3
3. . I In ni it ti ia al l u us se e
Before using the standing frame, check it for visible defects. Contact your supplier if you have any
doubts about its safety. Ask your supplier to instruct you if you are not yet familiar with the use of the
standing frame.
Before using the standing frame, read this user guide carefully and ensure that you understand the
purpose of all the parts. (Test everything before allowing the child to use the standing frame.)
Familiarise yourself with the safety instructions in chapter 2.
Your supplier can instruct you personally. In the event of problems, contact the attending therapist
or the supplier of the standing frame.
3.1 Transferring the child to the standing frame
To transfer the child to the standing frame safely and responsibly, the following instructions must be
observed in the order indicated. See chapter 4 “Operation” for instructions on how to operate the
standing frame.
a) Put the brakes on at least two of the four wheels so that the standing frame cannot roll away
while you are transferring the child;
b) Ensure that all the adjustments are properly tightened;
c) Loosen the shoe holder safety straps and the sacral support holder;
d) Unfasten the chest and pelvic bands on one side;
d) Transfer the child to the standing frame securing him or her in position with the chest and pelvic
bands;
e) Tighten the sacral support holder firmly;
f) Tighten the shoe holder safety straps;
g) If necessary, make any adjustments that might make the child more comfortable in his or her
standing position;
h) Never leave the child alone in the standing frame and always supervise its use.
3.2 Transferring the child from the standing frame
To transfer the child from the standing frame safely and responsibly, the following instructions must
be observed in the order indicated. See chapter 4 “Operation” for instructions on how to operate the
standing frame.
a) Put the brakes on at least two of the four wheels so that the standing frame cannot roll away
while you are transferring the child;
e) Loosen the shoe holder safety straps, and the chest and pelvic bands;
b) Hold the child firmly and loosen the sacral support holder;
c) Transfer the child from the standing frame.
Attention:
Read chapter 4 “Operation” before using the standing frame for the
first time.

Ernie and Bert User Guide
4. Operation
No part of this User Guide may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or published, in any form or by any means, electronic,
mechanical, photocopy, recording or otherwise, without the prior written permission of Atlas Revalidatie Techniek BV.
© 2008 Atlas Revalidatie Techniek B.V.
8
4
4. . O Op pe er ra at ti io on n
A distinction is made between the daily and the standard settings of the standing frame. Tools are
always required for the standard adjustments.
4.1 Daily adjustments
Several settings are adjusted continually during the daily use of the standing frame, for example,
when transferring the child to and from the standing frame and when changing his or her standing
position slightly if this is required. No tools are required for the daily adjustments.
4.1.1 The brakes
•The brakes of the Ernie and the Bert consist of projecting lips at the top of each wheel.
•Brake on:
Push the projecting lip downwards with the front of your shoe (see illustration 2A) until it remains
in a fixed position.
Brake off:
Push the smaller lip forwards with the front of your shoe (see illustration 2B) so that the larger lip
comes up again.
Attention:
The first adjustments or major alterations in the standing posture may only be made by pers
onnel
specially instructed to do so. The
standing frame may only be adjusted by parents or carers after
comprehensive instruction and careful studying of this user guide.
Attention:
Always use at least two of the four brakes.
Illustration 2A:
Brake on.
Illustration 2B:
Brake off.
Attention:
Adopt a comfortable posture when loosening/tightening the adjusting screws and knob.
Ensure
that they are tightened properly again after making adjustments.

Ernie and Bert User Guide
4. Operation
No part of this User Guide may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or published, in any form or by any means, electronic,
mechanical, photocopy, recording or otherwise, without the prior written permission of Atlas Revalidatie Techniek BV.
© 2007 Atlas Revalidatie Techniek B.V.
9
4.1.2 The total height
•The knob for adjusting the total height is located under the
footplate (see illustration 3).
•Hold the frame firmly in position with one hand and loosen the
adjusting knob until it is almost completely loose with the
other. Adjust the standing frame to the required height and
tighten the knob firmly again. Check that the frame is properly
fixed.
•If the total height is adjusted, the tray table, chest support,
sacral support and knee supports will also move. Ensure that
they are adjusted to the correct heights once more, too.
4.1.3 The angle at which the child stands
•The clamp and knob for adjusting the angle of the standing frame
are located on the middle bar under the tray table (see illustration 4).
•First loosen the clamp. Hold the frame firmly with one hand and
loosen the adjusting knob with the other. Adjust the standing frame
to the required angle and ensure that the knob jumps back into a
hole. Check that the standing frame is properly fixed. Now tighten
the clamp firmly.
•A horizontal position requires an active posture; the more the child is
tilted forward, the more passive his or her posture. The aim is to
achieve the most active posture possible.
4.1.4 The chest band
•The chest band is located on the chest support (see illustration
5).
•Place the band across the child’s back, feed it through the slot
and then pull it back across the child's back. The band is fixed
in place using Velcro.
•If necessary, the chest band is used to secure the child’s trunk
so that his or her upper body is held firmly in position.
4.1.5 The pelvic derotation band or pelvic band
Pelvic derotation band (on the standard version)
•The pelvic derotation band is located on the pelvic
support (see illustration 6).
•Unfasten the derotation band from the standing frame on
one side. Unfasten the inner band from the outer band
and place it around the child’s pelvis before transferring
him or her to the standing frame; After transferring the
child to the standing frame, the outer band is pulled over
the inner bands, fed through the slot and then back over
the child’s pelvis.
•Both sideways and rotating movements of the pelvis can
be prevented by using the pelvic derotation band. The
pelvic derotation band also ensures that the child can be
secured in position when he or she is placed in the
standing frame.
Illustration 3:
Adjusting the total height.
Illustration 4: Adjusting the angle
at which the child stands.
Illustration 5:
Adjusting the chest band.
Illustration 6:
Adjusting the pelvic derotation band.

Ernie and Bert User Guide
4. Operation
No part of this User Guide may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or published, in any form or by any means, electronic,
mechanical, photocopy, recording or otherwise, without the prior written permission of Atlas Revalidatie Techniek BV.
© 2007 Atlas Revalidatie Techniek B.V.
10
Pelvic band (on the FLEX version)
•The pelvic band is located on the pelvic support.
•Place the band across the child’s pelvis, feed it through the slot and then pull it back across the
child's back. The band is fixed in place using Velcro. This is the same principle as which used
for the chest band (see section 4.1.4).
•The pelvic band ensures that the child can be secured in position when he or she is placed in
the standing frame.
4.1.6 Removing, fastening and adjusting the depth of the sacral
support (optional in the standard version)
•The clamp for loosening, fastening and adjusting the depth of the
sacral support is located on the back of the sacral support (see
illustration 8).
•To remove the sacral support, hold the sacral support firmly with
one hand and loosen the adjusting screw by turning it to the left
with the other hand. Once it has been returned to its position, it
can be adjusted to the required depth. Tighten the clamp firmly
again. Check that the sacral support is properly fixed.
•The sacral support must be pushed up firmly against the child, so
that the pelvis is secured in position between the sacral and pelvic
supports.
4.1.7 Securing the child’s feet in the shoe holders
•The safety straps are located on the sides of the shoe holders
(see illustration 9). These straps are fastened when the child is in
the standing frame. Make sure that at least two of the standing
frame’s brakes are on.
•Hold the child’s foot firmly in the shoe holder with one hand. Place
the safety strap across the child’s instep in the quick fastener and
click it downwards. Check that the strap is properly fixed. Ensure
that the strap does not pinch.
•The shoe holders with safety straps ensure that the child’s feet
remain vertically under the trunk so that he or she can maintain his
or her standing position.
4.1.8 The height and angle of the tray table
Height and angle of the tray table on the chest support side
•The clamp for adjusting the height and angle of the tray table on
the chest support side is located under the tray table (see
illustration 10).
•Hold the tray table firmly in position with one hand and loosen the
clamp with the other. Adjust the tray table to the required height
and angle and tighten the clamp firmly again. Check that the tray
table is properly fixed.
•The tray table must be adjusted such that the child can lean with
his or her elbows on it, with his or her shoulders relaxed.
Illustration 8:
Adjusting the sacral support
Illustration 9:
Adjusting the safety straps
Illustration 10:
Adjusting the height of the tray table
at the chest support side.