Bending Sensor for Prosthetic Gait Monitoring
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional sensors for prosthetic and orthotic devices are limited in their ability to accurately measure both heel strike and toe load, require expensive and non-portable equipment for alignment, and lack efficient and cost-effective methods for storing cumulative gait dynamics and providing comfortable sensory feedback.
Innovation Solution
A flexible sensor system integrated into prosthetic and orthotic devices that measures bending and produces resistance outputs correlated to the device's bending, allowing for real-time data collection and processing to align, monitor, and provide feedback on gait dynamics, including the use of resistive strips and microcontrollers for data communication and processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional sensors are used to detect heel strike or toe load, then one specific gait parameter can be detected, but the sensor cannot simultaneously measure both heel strike and toe load
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor is divided into multiple sensing zones or regions along its length, with each zone capable of detecting pressure independently. This segmentation allows different portions of the sensor to detect heel strike and toe load simultaneously, resolving the contradiction between measurement precision for specific parameters and versatility for multiple measurements.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor is designed as a multi-functional device that can detect multiple gait parameters (heel strike, toe load, midfoot pressure) simultaneously through a single integrated structure. This universal design eliminates the need for multiple separate sensors and enables comprehensive gait analysis from a single sensor placement.
2Measurement precision
If laser beam equipment is used to determine center of gravity for device alignment, then alignment accuracy is improved, but the equipment becomes expensive and non-portable
Solution Approach 1:
The complex optical laser alignment system is replaced with a simpler electronic sensor-based system that uses pressure distribution measurements to determine center of gravity and alignment. This substitution maintains measurement precision while dramatically reducing equipment complexity and improving portability, as the sensor system can be integrated directly into the prosthetic device.
Solution Approach 2:
The prosthetic device itself serves as the measurement tool through integrated sensors that automatically detect alignment status during normal use. This self-service approach eliminates the need for external alignment equipment, enabling users to monitor and adjust alignment independently without requiring expensive portable laser devices.
3Extent of automation
If conventional sensory feedback systems using electrical stimulus are implemented, then feedback functionality is provided, but the system becomes uncomfortable, unaesthetic, and unsafe
Solution Approach 1:
Electrical stimulus-based sensory feedback is replaced with a mechanical/tactile feedback mechanism that uses the sensor system to provide physical cues through the prosthetic structure itself. This substitution maintains automated feedback functionality while eliminating the discomfort, aesthetic issues, and safety concerns associated with electrical stimulation, as the feedback is delivered through natural mechanical contact.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables accurate alignment, prediction of device failure, training of users, and improved safety by providing real-time feedback and data storage, while being portable and cost-effective, applicable to various devices associated with limbs.
Implementation Method 1
a sensor, wherein the sensor is configured to bend with the device while in use, and wherein the sensor produces a resistance output correlated to the bending of the device
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and method for monitoring gait dynamics are disclosed. The performance of an orthotic or prosthetic device or other device associated with a limb may be measured based on the resistance of a bending sensor. Data from the sensors is gathered or processed, particularly for purposes of alignment, safety, failure, usage, selection, and artificial proprioception. Information relating to the device may be outputted visually or auditorily to an individual.