Prosthetic Strain Gauge Sensor Support Member
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for measuring forces, moments, temperature, inclination, and acceleration in prosthetic limbs are often cumbersome, provide limited data, and require significant modification of the limb, making them unsuitable for diagnosis and everyday use.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising strain gauge sensors and electronic circuitry that measures forces and moments in three axes, with optional inclinometers and accelerometers, integrated into a support member that can be attached to prosthetic limbs with minimal modification, allowing for wireless or wired data transmission and power conservation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If external measurement devices such as pressure plates are used, then measurement capability is provided, but device complexity and interference with normal range of motion increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary support member that couples between the prosthetic limb components (socket and pylon). This support member serves as a mediator that transmits mechanical loads from the limb to embedded strain gauge sensors, enabling measurement without requiring complex external devices. The intermediary structure facilitates measurement while maintaining the natural function and range of motion of the prosthetic limb.
2Measurement precision
If onboard measurement systems are implemented, then measurement data is obtained, but device complexity and modification requirements increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement system is segmented into a separate, modular support member that can be independently manufactured and then integrated into the prosthetic limb. This segmentation allows the sensing functionality to be added without requiring complex modification of the entire prosthetic limb structure. The support member acts as a self-contained module with embedded sensors that can be attached to existing limb components.
3Measurement precision
If multiple strain gauge sensors are used to measure six degrees of freedom, then measurement precision improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple strain gauge sensors are merged into a single integrated support member structure. The support member combines the functions of structural support and sensing, with strain gauges embedded directly into the member itself. This merging eliminates the need for separate sensor housings and mounting mechanisms, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining the capability to measure all six degrees of freedom through the coordinated output of multiple gauges.
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 and versatile measurement of loads and movements, facilitating gait analysis and real-time monitoring of prosthetic limb function, with the ability to detect malfunctions and control prosthetic components, while minimizing user interference and modification requirements.
Implementation Method 1
each array including a plurality of strain gauge sensors, each sensor outputting an electrical signal responsive to loading imposed on the support member
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are disclosed for sensing forces, moments, temperature, inclination, acceleration and other parameters associated with prosthetic limbs. The system is capable of measuring forces in three designated axes, and moments about the same designated axes, for a total of six possible degrees of freedom. The system can be readily fitted onto a conventional prosthetic limb with no, or relatively minor, modification thereto. A plurality of sensor arrays are disposed on a support member, each array including a plurality of strain gauge sensors, each sensor outputting an electrical signal responsive to loading imposed on the support member through the prosthetic limb. Electronic circuitry in communication with the gauges is operative to receive the electrical signals from the strain gauges and provide a signal useful in the form, fit or function of the prosthetic limb.