CATHOLIC UNIVERSITY

CATHOLIC UNIVERSITY

QL+ Program Manager:

Jody Kakacek

Ph.D., MNPM

About

CATHOLIC UNIVERSITY

The Catholic University of America is the national university of the Catholic Church and the only higher education institution founded by the U.S. bishops. Established in 1887 as a papally chartered graduate and research center, the University comprises 12 schools and 31 research facilities and is home to 3,332 undergraduate and 2,624 graduate students.

Website

https://engineering.catholic.edu/

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Email

jody.kakacek@qlplus.org

CATHOLIC UNIVERSITY
Projects

Current Projects

CATH U: GOLF ADAPTATION DEVICE (STUDENT CHAPTER Y2)

An Army veteran who lost both arms to an IED blast in Afghanistan in 2012 had bilateral hand transplant surgery. He does not have use of his forearms, wrists, and hands until the nerves finish growing distally. Therefore, he is unable to grip, flex, or extend his wrists. He likes to golf and has tried with a variety of adaptations, but there is still too much “wobble”/motion. The goal of this Challenge is to create a golfing device that will allow him to enjoy the sport.

CATH U: BREAKAWAY PROSTHETIC LEG (V3)

A retired Army Veteran was injured by a rocket propelled grenade (RPG). Due tothe shrapnel and dirt that entered his wound, he suffered multiple infections and endured 24 surgeries. He finally elected to undergo a right leg above the knee amputation to lessen infection and improve function and recently had osseointegration surgery. Mountain biking is an integral part of his physical and mental health, and quality of life. The Challenge is to create afunctional, safe breakaway system for his osseointegrated prosthetic leg attachment so he can safely continue his activities.
CATHOLIC UNIVERSITY
Projects

Completed Project List

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