Session: 17-01-01: Research Posters

Paper Number: 150343

150343 - Dissecting Gait Deviations in Above-Knee Amputees: A Computational Framework for Prosthetic Design Optimization 

The development of effective prosthetic limbs for above-knee amputees is critical for enhancing mobility and quality of life, yet differentiating the effects of prosthetic and patient-specific factors on gait deviations remains a challenging task. This research introduces a pioneering computational framework designed to dissect and analyze these factors distinctly, paving the way for targeted improvements in prosthetic design and function.

The core of our study is a novel three-model framework that incorporates biomechanical simulations to isolate the contributions of prosthesis-specific elements from those of the patient's residual limb mechanics. This approach was operationalized using three distinct computational models: a baseline model representing the gait dynamics of an able-bodied individual, a model simulating the gait with an idealized prosthetic configuration, and a model incorporating the specific design features of a commercially available prosthetic knee, the Mauch SNS.

A two-dimensional swing-phase model served as the initial testing ground for our framework, offering a simplified yet effective means for demonstrating the potential insights that can be gleaned from our methodology. This proof-of-concept phase allowed us to confirm the theoretical viability of our models in predicting how different prosthetic designs influence joint torques and overall gait dynamics.

Our results are promising, revealing distinct patterns in how alterations in prosthetic design impact gait kinematics and kinetics. For instance, variations in the inertia and alignment of the prosthetic components were shown to significantly affect the torque requirements at the knee and hip joints, which in turn influence the gait symmetry and stability. These findings underscore the importance of personalized adjustments in prosthetics, which can be optimized using our computational framework to enhance functional outcomes.

Furthermore, the framework facilitates a comparative analysis that provides new insights into the specific impacts of design changes on gait dynamics. By enabling precise adjustments to prosthetic configurations, our method supports the iterative design process, allowing prosthetists and engineers to refine prosthetic limbs based on computational predictions rather than solely on empirical testing.

This research not only contributes a new tool for biomechanical analysis but also offers a methodological foundation for the future development of prosthetic devices. It promises to reduce the empirical trial-and-error typically required in prosthetic design and fitting, potentially accelerating the customization process and improving the functional outcomes for amputees.

In conclusion, our computational framework introduces a robust approach for enhancing the understanding and development of prosthetic limbs. By distinguishing between different influences on gait deviations, it provides a powerful platform for advancing prosthetic technology and rehabilitation practices, ultimately aiming to improve the mobility and quality of life for above-knee amputees.

Presenting Author: Sachin Goyal University of California Merced

Presenting Author Biography: Sachin Goyal received the B.Tech. degree in mechanical engineering from IIT Varanasi and the Ph.D. degree from the University of Michigan. He has held post-doctoral research appointments with MIT-WHOI and Emory University, and has served as a Faculty Member in IIT Gandhingar and Cornell University. He has worked at Larson and Toubro Ltd., and has served as a Technical Adviser to Timetooth Technologies Pvt. Ltd., India. He is currently an associate professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at the University of California at Merced and runs a research program on biomechanics and mechanobiology. He has research interests in continuum mechanics, dynamics and controls with applications to several engineering and biological systems.

Authors:

Sachin Goyal University of California Merced
Muhammad Ahmed University of California Merced
Matthew Leineweber Biomotum Inc.
Jacques Nguessan University of California Merced