The development of an adaptive and reactive interface system for lower limb prosthetic application

Bagwell, Jake

Thesis

The development of an adaptive and reactive interface system for lower limb prosthetic application

下载PDF文件

Creator

Bagwell, Jake

Rights statement

Strathclyde Thesis Copyright

Awarding institution

University of Strathclyde

Date of award

2023

Thesis identifier

T16736

Person Identifier (Local)

201577454

Qualification Level

Doctoral (Postgraduate)

Qualification Name

Doctor of Engineering (EngD)

Department, School or Faculty

Department of Biomedical Engineering

Abstract

Deep tissue injury (DTI) is a known problem correlating to the use of a prosthetic by a transtibial amputee (TTA), causing ulcer-like wounds on the residual limb caused by stress-induced cell necrosis. The magnitude of these stresses at the bone tissue interface has been identified computationally, far exceeding those measured at the skin's surface. Limited technology is available to directly target and reduce such cellular loading and actively reduce the risk of DTI from below-knee use. The primary aim of this project was to identify whether a bespoke prosthetic socket system could actively stiffen the tissues of the lower limb. Stabilising the residual tibia during ambulation and reducing stress concentrations on the cells. To achieve this, a proof-of-concept device was designed and manufactured, a system that allowed the change in displacement of a magnet to be responded to by counterbalancing load. The device was evaluated through experimentation on an able-bodied subject wearing an orthotic device designed to replicate the environment of a prosthetic socket. The chosen sensor effector system was validated against vector data generated by the Motek Medical Computer Assisted Rehabilitation Environment (CAREN.) The project explored a new concept of reactive loading of a below-knee prosthesis to reduce tibial/socket oscillation. The evaluation of the device indicated that external loading of the residual limb in such a manner could reduce the magnitude of rotation about the tibia and therefore minimise the conditions by which DTIs are known to occur. Efforts were made to move the design to the next iteration, focusing on implementing the target demographic.

Advisor / supervisor