Robotic Knee Testing Device for Objective Ligament Stability Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for diagnosing ligament damage in the knee, such as manual tests, are subjective and lack objective, accurate, and reproducible measures of joint instability, leading to inconsistent results and potential misdiagnosis.
Innovation Solution
A robotic knee testing device that applies controlled torque in three directions (flexion/extension, varus/valgus, and internal/external rotation) while using external measuring systems like CT scans or motion tracking to objectively measure ligamentous changes and joint play.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual tests (Lachman's test, Pivot Shift test, Anterior Drawer Test) are used to evaluate ligament damage, then the testing procedure is simple and can be performed by clinicians, but the measurement results are subjective and lack accuracy and reproducibility
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical testing with a robotic system that uses computer-controlled actuators to apply forces in multiple directions (flexion/extension, varus/valgus, internal/external rotation). The robotic knee testing device uses sensors and imaging systems to objectively measure joint play and ligamentous changes, eliminating the subjectivity of manual clinician assessment while maintaining ease of operation through automated control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces imaging systems (such as fluoroscopy or MRI) as intermediaries between the robotic testing device and the measurement system. These imaging systems capture bone positions and joint play during robotic testing, providing objective, quantifiable data about ligament length and compliance that eliminates the subjectivity of manual testing while maintaining the simplicity of the overall testing procedure.
2Device complexity
If manual tests are used to diagnose ligament damage, then the device complexity is low, but the reliability of diagnosis is insufficient due to clinician subjectivity
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic knee testing device replaces manual mechanical testing with computer-controlled actuators and sensors. The system automatically applies forces in multiple directions and measures joint play, eliminating clinician subjectivity and improving diagnostic reliability. The robotic system can be configured to perform standardized testing protocols that ensure consistent results across different clinicians and patients.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates real-time feedback mechanisms where sensors detect bone positions, joint play, and ligamentous responses during robotic testing. This feedback is processed by a computer system that provides objective, quantifiable measurements of ligament length and compliance, ensuring consistent and reliable diagnostic results that are not dependent on clinician experience or subjectivity.
3Measurement precision
If robotic knee testing device is used to apply controlled torque in three directions, then measurement precision and reliability improve, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic knee testing device is divided into separate functional modules: actuator systems for applying forces in different directions, sensor systems for detecting bone positions and joint play, imaging systems for visualizing bone anatomy and joint play, and a computer control system for coordinating all components. This segmentation allows each module to be optimized independently while working together to provide precise, reliable measurements of joint stability.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for evaluating leg movement characteristics of a patient is provided. The apparatus comprises a base assembly configured to at least partially support the patient's torso; and first and second leg support assemblies independently pivotably mounted about a pivot axis relative to the base assembly. Each leg support assembly is configured to at least partially support a portion of a respective one of the first and second legs, independent of the support of the torso. Each of the leg support assemblies also comprises: a first leg support member including a foot rotation assembly configured to at least partially retain and support an associated foot of the patient and to rotate it about an axis of rotation relative to the base assembly; and a second leg support member configured for supporting a portion of the leg at a location proximal relative to the first leg support member.