Design and prototype validation of a laterally mounted powered hip joint prothesis.

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Prosthetics and Orthotics
• Rehabilitation Engineering

Background:

• Existing prosthetic technology offers limited solutions for hip-level amputees.
• Current hip prostheses are often front-mounted, restricting range of motion and user mobility.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce and evaluate a novel laterally mounted powered hip joint (LMPHJ) designed to augment user movement.
• To address the limitations of current hip prostheses by providing a powered solution closer to the anatomical center of rotation.

Main Methods:

• Designed and manufactured a prototype of the laterally mounted powered hip joint (LMPHJ).
• Conducted static testing based on modified ISO 15032:2000 standards to assess load-bearing capacity for a 100 kg individual.
• Performed functional testing using a prosthesis simulator with able-bodied participants to evaluate walking performance on level ground.

Main Results:

• Static testing demonstrated the LMPHJ's capability to withstand everyday loading conditions.
• Functional testing confirmed successful walking on level ground with the powered prosthesis simulator.
• The mechanical design was validated for walking functionality.

Conclusions:

• The laterally mounted powered hip joint (LMPHJ) is a viable solution for enhancing mobility in hip-level amputees.
• The prototype's successful testing indicates readiness for clinical evaluation with amputee participants.
• This novel design advances powered prosthetic technology for improved patient outcomes.