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A Structured Rehabilitation Protocol for Improved Multifunctional Prosthetic Control: A Case Study
Published on: November 6, 2015
Hybrid Soft-Rigid Active Prosthetics Laboratory Exercise for Hands-On Biomechanical and Biomedical Engineering
Run Ze Gao1,2, Peter S Lee1,2, Aravind Ravi3,2
1Department of Mechanical and Mechatronics Engineering, University of Waterloo, 200 University Ave W., E5-3008, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada.
Journal of Biomechanical Engineering
|March 8, 2024
Summary
This lab exercise teaches students to build and test a hybrid soft-rigid active finger prosthetic. It integrates mechanical, electrical, and sensor systems for biomechanical and biomedical engineering education.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Robotics
- Rehabilitation Engineering
Background:
- Biomechanical and biomedical engineering (BME) education requires hands-on experience with complex systems.
- Developing functional prosthetic devices involves integrating multiple engineering disciplines.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce a hands-on laboratory exercise for assembling and testing a hybrid soft-rigid active finger prosthetic.
- To provide an adaptable and cost-effective educational module for BME curricula.
Main Methods:
- Students assemble a myoelectric finger prosthesis using off-the-shelf components.
- The design integrates mechanical, electrical, sensor (IMUs, EMG), pneumatic, and embedded software elements.
- Open-access files and affordable components (approx. $100/kit) facilitate implementation.
Main Results:
- The lab activity was piloted with 40 undergraduate students, receiving excellent positive feedback.
- Students engaged with a tangible, real-world application, enhancing the learning experience.
- The hybrid soft-rigid system offers flexibility for instructors and curriculum adaptation.
Conclusions:
- The lab provides an engaging pedagogical platform for learning prosthetic research and design.
- It covers the entire lifecycle from conceptualization to final testing.
- Opportunities exist for interdisciplinary learning through clinical and technical extensions.
