Glenn Klute, Ph.D.
VA Center of Excellence for Limb Loss Prevention and Prosthetic Engineering
"Embedded Sensors in Lower Limb Prostheses"


ABSTRACT

Observability and controllability are important considerations in the development of next generation prosthetic limbs.  This seminar will focus on applications of embedded sensors in lower limb prostheses to improve the mobility, healthcare, and quality of life of amputees.  Our research team of engineers and graduate students are working with physicians, prosthetists, and patients to use embedded sensors in a variety of projects including:

1. Skin temperature measurements inside prosthetic sockets,
2. Acceleration measurements on shock-absorbing pylons,
3. Pressure measurements inside prosthetic sockets,
4. Position measurements inside prosthetic knees,
5. Acceleration measurements to detect walking and other activities, and
6. Rate gyroscope measurements to detect turning maneuvers.

Examples of prosthetic limbs, sensors, and actuators will be provided.