Pneumatic actuator inserts for interface pressure mapping and fit improvement in lower extremity prosthetics

Wei Carrigan, Caleb Nothnagle, Prashant Savant, Fan Gao, Muthu B J Wijesundara

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

27 Scopus citations

Abstract

The fit of a prosthetic socket to a residual limb is critical as poor socket fit is one of the leading causes of improper function, discomfort, and skin breakdown. The daily and long term volume fluctuation of a residual limb presents a major challenge to maintaining fit. This work presents the initial efforts to develop adjustable inserts that consisted of arrays of small, sensorized inflatable pressure actuators that can expand based on the volume change. We have fabricated and tested actuator inserts to demonstrate their capability for pressure mapping in a limb-socket interface. We have also shown that the actuators have the capacity to maintain positive displacement under load to accommodate for volume change in a residual limb for improved fit.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publication2016 6th IEEE International Conference on Biomedical Robotics and Biomechatronics, BioRob 2016
PublisherIEEE Computer Society
Pages574-579
Number of pages6
ISBN (Electronic)9781509032877
DOIs
StatePublished - Jul 26 2016
Event6th IEEE RAS/EMBS International Conference on Biomedical Robotics and Biomechatronics, BioRob 2016 - Singapore, Singapore
Duration: Jun 26 2016Jun 29 2016

Publication series

NameProceedings of the IEEE RAS and EMBS International Conference on Biomedical Robotics and Biomechatronics
Volume2016-July
ISSN (Print)2155-1774

Other

Other6th IEEE RAS/EMBS International Conference on Biomedical Robotics and Biomechatronics, BioRob 2016
Country/TerritorySingapore
CitySingapore
Period6/26/166/29/16

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Artificial Intelligence
  • Biomedical Engineering
  • Mechanical Engineering

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