Modular Sensor Prosthesis for Objective Gait Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for adjusting and optimizing artificial limbs require complex and expensive measuring systems, making it difficult for standard adjustments by orthopedic mechanics, and rely heavily on patient subjective impressions, leading to inefficient optimization processes.
Innovation Solution
A compact and reliable sensor arrangement is installed in the artificial limb to measure forces, accelerations, and moments, allowing for the optimization of the prosthesis settings without the need for complex equipment, and can be used to determine if adjustments are necessary over time as the patient's gait behavior changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If complex measuring systems are used for stance and gait analysis, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The complex measuring system is segmented into a portable measurement prosthesis that can be detached and replaced with the final prosthesis. The measurement function is separated from the permanent prosthesis structure, allowing precise measurements to be taken during adjustment without requiring the full complexity of laboratory equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
A measurement prosthesis serves as an intermediary device between the patient and the final prosthesis. This intermediate device incorporates sensors and measurement capabilities that enable objective gait analysis during the adjustment process, bridging the gap between subjective patient feedback and objective measurement.
2Ease of operation
If subjective patient impressions are used for prosthesis optimization, then ease of operation is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement prosthesis incorporates sensors that provide objective feedback about the patient's gait parameters, forces, and movements. This feedback loop allows the orthopedic mechanic to make data-driven adjustments to the prosthesis settings, combining the simplicity of direct patient interaction with the precision of objective measurement.
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 objective and efficient optimization of artificial limb settings, allowing for continuous monitoring and adjustment without the need for expensive equipment, improving the fit and functionality of the prosthesis based on individual patient needs.
Implementation Method 1
a sensor arrangement adapted to the dimensions relevant for the installation of the functional part is installed, that forces, accelerations and/or moments during use of the sensor arrangement artificial limb are measured
Implementation Method 2
forces, accelerations and/or moments during use of the sensor arrangement artificial limb are measured
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method for carrying out a functional analysis for a person provided with an artificial extremity (30), said artificial extremity being set (30) to perform a basic function and being designed in a modular manner with at least one removable functional part (33), which in particular permits an additional function. To carry out the analysis without the use of complex external apparatus and measuring devices, a sensor assembly (33'), whose size corresponds to the dimensions relevant for the installation of the functional part, is fitted in place of the removable functional part (33). The sensor assembly (33') then measures the forces, acceleration and/or torques that occur whilst the artificial extremity (30) is in use in order to optimise the setting of the basic function of the artificial extremity. The sensor assembly (33') is subsequently replaced by the functional part (33) and the optimised setting is retained.