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Engineering Platform and Experimental Protocol for Design and Evaluation of a Neurally-controlled Powered Transfemoral Prosthesis

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Published on: July 22, 2014

Second generation prototype of a variable stiffness transverse plane adapter for a lower limb prosthesis.

Corey Pew¹, Glenn K Klute¹

¹Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, United States; Department of Veterans Affairs, Center for Limb Loss and Mobility, 1660 S. Columbian Way, Seattle, WA 98108, United States.

Medical Engineering & Physics

|August 16, 2017

Summary

This study introduces the VSTA II, an improved prosthetic device for lower limb amputees. It offers adaptable stiffness for better comfort during activities like turning and pivoting.

Keywords:

Lower limb amputee Prosthesis Torsion adapter Variable stiffness

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Area of Science:

Biomedical Engineering
Prosthetics and Orthotics
Biomechanics

Background:

Traditional lower limb prosthetics prioritize straight walking, overlooking transverse plane movements like turning.
Existing devices with transverse plane motion have fixed stiffness, limiting adaptability to daily activities.
The first-generation variable stiffness torsion adapter (VSTA I) showed potential in reducing residual limb moments but was hindered by size and weight.

Purpose of the Study:

To develop and evaluate the VSTA II, a second-generation prototype prosthetic device.
To enhance transverse plane motion capabilities in lower limb prosthetics.
To improve upon the VSTA I's limitations in mass, height, and functionality.

Main Methods:

The VSTA II utilizes five independent spring subunits for adjustable stiffness (0.31–1.29 Nm/°).
It offers ±30° of motion and a fully locked mode, with discrete stiffness increments.
The prototype features a 51% mass and 42% height reduction, with a tether-free control system.

Main Results:

The VSTA II demonstrates discrete stiffness variation and enhanced range of motion.
Significant reductions in mass and height compared to the VSTA I were achieved.
The design facilitates a tether-free controller and power system for improved usability.

Conclusions:

The VSTA II offers a significant advancement in prosthetic technology for lower limb amputees.
Its adaptable stiffness and reduced profile enhance functionality for diverse activities.
The improved design enables broader participant recruitment and advanced research capabilities.