biodex FREESTEP SAS User manual

FREESTEP SAS
INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE AND ASSEMBLY
950-487
960-126
960-401
960-402
FN: 19-052 2/19

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FreeStep SAS
This instructions for use document covers safe operation of the FreeStep SAS System – 950-
487, 960-126, 960-401 and 960-402.
Additional information and resources are available upon request or directly from the Biodex
website, www.biodex.com.
If the desired information is not found, please feel free to contact a local distributor or Biodex
directly at [email protected].
Thank you,
Biodex Medical Systems, Inc.
Contact information
Manufactured by:
Biodex Medical Systems, Inc.
20 Ramsey Road, Shirley, New York, 11967-4704
Tel: [phone] (Int’l 631-924-9000)
Fax: [phone]
email: [email protected]
www.biodex.com

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Table of Contents
Definition of Symbols................................................................................................................ 4!
Before Proceeding ..................................................................................................................... 5!
Biodex Warranty........................................................................................................................ 6!
1.!Introduction ........................................................................................................................ 7!
Intended Use ................................................................................................................. 7!
Indications for Use......................................................................................................... 7!
Custom Configuration ................................................................................................... 7!
Training......................................................................................................................... 8!
Videos ........................................................................................................................... 8!
2. ! Assembly Instructions ................................................................................................... 9!
Attach Height Adjustment System to Track and Trolley .................................................. 9!
FreeStep SAS Operation ............................................................................................... 10!
Emergency Procedures................................................................................................. 12!
3.!FreeStep SAS System Operation ......................................................................................... 14!
Using the Standard Unweighing Harness...................................................................... 14!
Support Harness DLX ................................................................................................... 16!
Braking Trolley (Optional) ............................................................................................ 18!
Ropeman ..................................................................................................................... 18!
P600 Lift (Optional)...................................................................................................... 20!
4. ! Operating Instructions ................................................................................................. 21!
5. ! Maintenance and Cleaning .......................................................................................... 22!
6.!Specifications .................................................................................................................... 23!

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Definition of Symbols
The following symbols and their associated definitions are used and implied throughout this
manual.

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Before Proceeding
Before getting started with any of the setups described in this manual, there are
a few
preliminary points to consider that will help ensure safe and smooth
operation of the FreeStep SAS System.
Be aware that use of Biodex products requires professional expertise for
discerning appropriate treatment techniques. Each subject’s unique situation
should be taken into account before beginning any type of testing or
rehabilitation program. Be sure you fully comprehend these operating
instructions before attempting to treat a subject for testing or exercise. Practice
setups and positioning with a healthy subject before attempting to treat an
injured patient.
NOTE: Service should be provided by qualified personnel only. Please do not
attempt installation or repair on your own. Call Biodex Customer Service for
assistance.
WARNING: The FreeStep SAS System must be thoroughly inspected every time prior to
usage with a patient to ensure safe operation. Refer to the Maintenance and Safety
Inspection section for details.
CAUTION: The FreeStep SAS System should not be used if an issue requiring
service by Biodex personnel is detected during inspection.
CAUTION: Ensure that the support rope safety stop does not come in contact
with the support bar pulley when either a Biodex supplied harness or other
manufacturer’s harness is used to support the patient.
CAUTION: When service is required, the FreeStep SAS System should only be
serviced by personnel authorized by Biodex Medical Systems, Inc. Failure to do
so will void the warranty and no longer ensure safe operation.
CAUTION: Modifications to this product are only permitted by the
manufacturer. Unauthorized modification of the product can result in hazards
to the operator and patient, and will void the manufacturer’s warranty. Do not
modify this equipment without authorization from the manufacturer.
CAUTION: The harness is not designed to be a fall arrest device, but rather a
fall prevention device. Never allow slack in the line supporting the patient.
CAUTION: This device should not be used anytime pressure around the
abdomen, thighs, groin or shoulders is contraindicated.
For additional technical advice, service or education information, please contact:
Biodex Medical Systems, Inc., 20 Ramsey Road, Shirley, New York 11967-4704;
1-800-224-6339 (Int’l 631-924-9000) or [e-mail].

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Important Safety Information
CAUTION: Federal Law restricts this device to sale by, or on the order of a
medical practitioner. When prescribed for therapeutic purpose, a physician
should clearly define the parameters of use (i.e., total work, maximum heart
rate, etc.) to reduce the risk of patient injury.
Follow the assembly and installation instructions document.
Before using this device, read the entire operation manual carefully. Failure
to read the manual may result in user error or inaccurate data. Be sure to
save all provided documents for future reference.
Make certain to understand all warning and caution labels as explained in
the Before Proceeding section of this manual.
This product should be used only as specified in the operation manual.
The FreeStep SAS System is designed for use in a patient environment.
For product specifications, refer to the Table of Contents.
Reference Cleaning and Maintenance instructions in Section 6.
Biodex Warranty
Refer to the warranty card included with the product or contact Biodex Support Services.

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1. Introduction
Intended Use
The FreeStep Supported Ambulation System (SAS) is used to support weakened or balance
deficient patients without using additional floor space or requiring additional staff.
Indications for Use
The FreeStep SAS is an overhead track and harness system that provides a safe ambulation
environment for both therapist and patient. Without the fear of falling, patients can focus more
fully on their tasks of gait and balance. Likewise, therapists can focus on assisting, rather than
supporting.
Custom Configuration
The FreeStep SAS can be custom configured to any facility; complementing the existing
equipment floor plan. Install as a simple loop for continuous ambulation over stairs or through
parallel bars, or add side branches for equipment-specific stations to include treadmill exercise
or balance training (sample configurations can be found at http://www.biodex.com/physical-
medicine/products/supported-ambulation/freestep-sas).
NOTE: A customized floor plan can be created using Biodex Floor Planner, which is available at
www.biodex.com/floorplanner/physmed.
Figure 1.1. Floor Plan Custom Configuration URL.

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Training
To view the FreeStep SAS Clinical Applications eLearning course, visit:
https://www.biodex.com/elearning/Litmos/FreeStepClinApp/story.html
Videos
There are also many FreeStep SAS videos located on the Biodex website under Physical Medicine
> Products > Supported Ambulation > FreeStep SAS. To play a video, select the triangle (play
button) on the right of the screen.
These two videos focus on Parkinson’s:
1. How to: FreeStep SAS for Parkinson’s:
http://www.biodex.com/video/freestep/pd
2. How to: FreeStep SAS for Parkinson’s – Alignment and Static Balance:
http://www.biodex.com/video/freestep/pd-align
Figure 1.2. FreeStep SAS Videos on Biodex Website.

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2. Assembly Instructions
Attach Height Adjustment System to Track and Trolley
1. In preparation for attaching the Height Adjustment system to the track and trolley, remove
the shackle pin (2) from the U-shaped clevis (1) using pliers or an adjustable wrench.
Figure.1.3. Removing Shackle Pin (2) from U-Shaped Clevis (1).
2. Insert the U-shaped clevis (1) through the eyehole of the trolley, line up the Height
Adjustment System (2), and reinsert the shackle pin (3) initiating from the non-threaded end
of the clevis.
Figure 1.4. Inserting Height Adjustment System into Track with U-Shaped
Clevis and Shackle Pin.
2
1
1
2
3

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3. Securely tighten the shackle pin with pliers or wrench by turning in the clockwise direction
and apply a zip tie.
Figure 1.5. Tighten Shackle Pin and Apply Zip Tie.
NOTE: It is recommended that a zip tie is added to the shackle pin to ensure it does not
back out of the clevis.
FreeStep SAS Operation
Using the Pulley and Rope:
1. Adjust the tension to a level that best supports the patient while participating in ambulatory
level and/or therapeutic activities by pulling down to raise the pulley. This pull locks the
rope in the cam cleat.
Figure 1.6. Raise the Pulley to Lock the Rope in the Cam Cleat.
2. Use a quick rope tug or ‘flip’ to disengage the rope from the cam cleat.

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Figure 1.7. Tug the Rope to Disengage the Rope from the Cam Cleat.
NOTE: I n theory, the FreeStep pulley system creates a 3:1 advantage of leverage meaning that
the patient’s weight will only feel one third as heavy as it actually is. However, in practice, the
friction between the rope and the pulleys will add about 10% of the weight back to the required
force necessary for hoisting.
Figure 1.8. Pulley Physics.

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Emergency Procedures
In an emergency or urgent situation where the cam cleat cannot be easily disengaged:
1. Turn the patient perpendicular to the track and place the wheelchair under the patient.
Figure 1.9. Patient is positioned perpendicular to the track with wheelchair
positioned underneath.
2. Take the rope and step away from the track. A hard flip will disengage the rope from the
cam cleat.
Figure 2.0. Putting Pressure on the Rope.
NOTE: These steps are explained in the FreeStep SAS eLearning course.

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3. Lower the patient into the chair.
Figure 2.1. Lowering the Patient into the Chair.
If two people are available:
4. O ne person takes the patient under the arms and lifts the patient until there is slack in the
rope.
5. The second person disengages the rope from the cam cleat and lowers the patient.

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3. FreeStep SAS System Operation
CAUTION: Never leave a patient unattended on this device. Check all cables,
harness
and fittings before each use.
CAUTION: The FreeStep SAS uses a special harness to support the patient. It is
vital that the harness fits properly on the patient. Refer to the video available
on the Biodex website.
Using the Standard Unweighing Harness
Figure 2.2. Standard Unweighing Harness.
The FreeStep SAS can be used with most two-point harnesses. The harness that is supplied
with the system provides maximum support for patients needing consistent body weight
unloading. It also provides increased trunk stability. A two-panel design allows for a wide
range of adjustability and easy application in sitting and supine positions, while a unique
pelvic support piece prevents excessive pressure in the groin area.
Standing Harness Application
Note: Applying the Biodex Standard Unweighing Harness while the patient is in a standing
position is covered in a video that is offered within the Products section of the Biodex Home
website: www.biodex/harnesses.
Sitting Harness Application
Note: Applying the Standard Unweighing Harness while the patient is in a seated position is
covered in a video that is offered within the Products section of the Biodex Home website:
www.biodex/harnesses.

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Figure 2.3. Unweighing System Harness Application Videos.

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Support Harness DLX
Worn as a vest around the upper torso, the Support Harness DLX provides patients with security
and safety from falling when used with the FreeStep SAS or Unweighing System. Versatility
includes double shoulder point connections to spreader bar or, a single connection point for
low ceiling applications with tall patients (6'3" on a treadmill or 6'11" on the floor). A pelvic
support strap is included to keep the harness in place when limited body weight support is
intended. For information on how to apply the Pelvic Support Strap, go to
www.biodex.com/harness and click on the Manuals tab.
NOTE: For a video on Applying the Support Harness DLX, visit: www.biodex/harnesses.
Figure 2.6. Support Harness DLX Video.
Figure 2.4. Support Harness DLX Double
Shoulder Point Connection.
Figure 2.5. Single Connection Point.

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Straight Hanger Bar with Quick Disconnect
Some systems will ship with a straight hanger bar as illustrated in Figure 2.7 below.
Figure 2.7. Straight Hanger Bar with Quick Release
The straight hanger bar features a quick disconnect that allows the use of a single point
harness when the intention is slight support or safety from falling during activity.
The Quick Release pin (see Figure 2.7) is used to disconnect the hanger bar from the clevis. It
can be reconnected to a Single Point Support harness either directly or a carabiner can be used.
NOTE: The Straight Hanger Bar with quick disconnect can also be used with the FreeStep Rail
System.
Figure 2.8. Direct Connection to a Single Point Harness.
Reconnect to the Single Point harness either directly or using a carabiner.

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Braking Trolley (Optional)
The Braking Trolley is an accessory to the FreeStep SAS. It contains two sets of rollers
and a braking mechanism that provides compression for increased friction against a
FreeStep overhead rail track. The larger eyelet (between the rollers) is where the patient
height adjuster or single line drop hardware is attached. Refer to the Braking Trolley
Installation/Operation Manual for detailed information on installation and usage.
Figure 2.9. Braking Trolley Accessory.
Figure 3.0. Tightening Pole.
NOTE: The eyelet with the yellow tag is not to bear weight in any circumstance. The yellow-
tagged eyelet is for adjusting rail friction only.
Ropeman
A spring loaded cam cleat provides a closed loop system that can be used for higher level
balance activities.
If using the single point attachment with the carabiner, position the ropeman so it is parallel to
the V loop on the posterior aspect of the Support Harness DLX. Attach the carabiner to the V
loop and pull to tighten. This will create the closed loop.

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Figure 3.1. Creating a Closed Loop with the Ropeman.
If using a dual point attachment, position the ropeman so it is parallel with the spreader bar.
Attach the carabiner to the bracket as illustrated in Figure 3.2.
Figure 3.2. Ropeman Using a Dual Point Attachment.
The mechanism needs to be positioned to the teeth are facing down. It is in the correct position
if it can be moved freely in the upward direction only.
To move the safety ropeman in the downward direction, pull on the release tab.
Figure 3.3. Pulling the Release Tab.

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P-600 Lift (Optional)
The P-600 simplifies height adjustments when using the Biodex FreeStep SAS for supported
ambulation in a therapy setting. Lightweight and portable, this motorized lift attaches to the
support harness to provide complete control for the therapist. With a patient load capacity of
600 pounds, this heavy-duty lift is suitable for higher weight transfers.
Powered by non-proprietary batteries, the P-600 offers a cost-effective option to institutions.
Additionally, the P-600 comes standard with a full range of features such as on-board controls
and emergency lowering. Its on-board controls are complemented by a pneumatic hand control,
enhancing maneuvering options for the lift.
Equipped with a digital display, the P-600 offers real-time feedback, a battery indicator, lift
counter and preventative maintenance notification. These features and more make the P-600 a
popular addition to our range of products for Safe Patient Handling & Mobility.