Temperature measurement and control system for transtibial prostheses: Functional evaluation.

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Prosthetics and Orthotics
• Thermal Management

Background:

• Heat accumulation in prosthetic sockets causes discomfort and reduces prosthesis functionality.
• High temperatures lead to skin issues, odor, and poor suspension.
• Effective thermal management is crucial for prosthetic users' well-being.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design, fabricate, and evaluate a prototype temperature measurement and control (TM&C) system for transtibial prosthetic sockets.
• To assess the system's ability to maintain thermal equilibrium within the socket.
• To identify areas for improvement in future TM&C system development.

Main Methods:

• A TM&C system prototype was developed using 12 thermistors (internal and external to a silicone liner) and a thermal pump.
• A control system managed heating/cooling based on temperature differentials.
• Aluminum layers facilitated thermal conduction within the prosthetic socket.

Main Results:

• The TM&C system demonstrated functional thermoregulation capabilities within the prosthetic socket phantom model.
• The system successfully maintained thermal equilibrium under tested conditions.
• Initial evaluation confirmed the potential of the TM&C system for prosthetic socket thermal management.

Conclusions:

• The developed TM&C system prototype shows promise for improving prosthetic socket comfort and use.
• Key areas for future development include structural enhancement, increased thermal power, and reduced weight and cost.
• Further research and refinement are necessary before clinical application.