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Engineering Platform and Experimental Protocol for Design and Evaluation of a Neurally-controlled Powered Transfemoral Prosthesis
Published on: July 22, 2014
Concept Through Preliminary Bench Testing of a Powered Lower Limb Prosthetic Device
Bryan J Bergelin1, Javier O Mattos, Joseph G Wells
1Department of Mechanical Engineering, Marquette University, Milwaukee, WI 53233, bryan.bergelin@marquette.edu.
Journal of Mechanisms and Robotics
|July 16, 2011
Summary
This study presents a powered ankle prosthesis for transtibial amputees, using a novel mechanism to replicate natural ankle movements. The prototype demonstrated the ability to match crucial ankle moments, enabling a more natural gait with reduced user effort.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Robotics
- Biomechanics
Background:
- Transtibial amputees often face challenges in achieving a natural gait due to the loss of ankle function.
- Existing prostheses may require significant user energy expenditure and do not fully replicate normal ankle biomechanics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To design, optimize, fabricate, and test a powered ankle prosthesis for transtibial amputees.
- To mimic nonamputee (normal) ankle moments using a four-bar mechanism, spring, and motor.
- To enable walking at a normal speed with minimal energy input for the wearer.
Main Methods:
- Development of a powered ankle prosthesis incorporating a four-bar linkage, spring, and motor.
- Optimization of the prosthesis design considering wearer-supplied energy for gait characteristics.
- Fabrication and testing of a proof-of-concept prototype to evaluate performance during the stance phase of gait.
Main Results:
- The designed prosthesis successfully mimicked crucial ankle moments during the stance phase.
- Testing validated the functional capabilities of the proof-of-concept prototype.
- The approach showed potential for enabling a more energy-efficient and natural gait for amputees.
Conclusions:
- The powered ankle prosthesis design effectively replicates key aspects of normal ankle function.
- This technology offers a promising solution for improving mobility and reducing energy cost for transtibial amputees.
- Further evaluation and refinement can lead to advanced prosthetic devices for enhanced gait rehabilitation.
