Unlike individuals with normal sensation, who subconsciously automatically shift
their seated weight, the SASyPUP system shifts the user, but without the coordinated
trunk muscles used to maintain upright balance. Thus there is the potential to shift the
seated individual and alter their base of support unexpectedly. In this instance,
a unique application of VR and gaming technology helps in enhancing sitting posture
and balance to allow individuals to practice and develop automatic strategies to maintain
upright seated balance both at rest and while experiencing the periodic stimulated
weight shift. Conceptually, the stimulated cycles can use a gradual ramping up of the
weight-shifting contraction, and users of the system will be made aware of the
impending weight shift so that appropriate and perhaps automatic compensations
can be employed. Because the SASyPUP system is engaged during most of the
day while participants are in their wheelchair, a wide range of activities and postures
may be interrupted by the weight-shifting stimulation. The VR and gaming applications
can allow users to develop and practice strategies that will minimize the potential loss
of balance regardless of position or activity in which they are engaged when the
weight-shifting cycle begins.