This study focuses on the functional validation of bioinspired prosthetic feet aimed at reducing the gap between biological and artificial limbs in terms of biomechanics and design. The research began with an anatomical analysis of the human ankle-foot complex and culminated in the creation of the BFOOT-UP, an innovative prosthetic foot designed to replicate the joint mechanics and plantar arch of a healthy limb. The testing phase involved both in vivo and limited in vitro experiments to evaluate the biomechanical performance of various BFOOT prototypes compared to a healthy limb and a commercially available prosthetic foot (CF). Key parameters such as Roll-Over-Shape (ROS), ankle angular velocity, Ground Reaction Forces (GRFs), and ankle angle trajectories were analysed. Results demonstrated that the BFOOT prototypes, particularly the latest prototypes, achieved a gait pattern closer to that of a healthy limb. However, challenges such as energy absorption and the limited thrust generated during the push-off phase and structural failures of certain components were identified. The study also highlighted limitations, including a small sample size for in vivo testing, the absence of extensive in vitro simulations, and the need for improved structural analysis of mechanical components. Future developments should focus on standardising test protocols, conducting trials with larger amputee populations, and refining mechanical design to enhance durability and performance. This work represents a significant step forward in the field of prosthetic design, paving the way for further advancements to improve the quality of life for amputees through more natural and efficient prosthetic solutions.
This study focuses on the functional validation of bioinspired prosthetic feet aimed at reducing the gap between biological and artificial limbs in terms of biomechanics and design. The research began with an anatomical analysis of the human ankle-foot complex and culminated in the creation of the BFOOT-UP, an innovative prosthetic foot designed to replicate the joint mechanics and plantar arch of a healthy limb. The testing phase involved both in vivo and limited in vitro experiments to evaluate the biomechanical performance of various BFOOT prototypes compared to a healthy limb and a commercially available prosthetic foot (CF). Key parameters such as Roll-Over-Shape (ROS), ankle angular velocity, Ground Reaction Forces (GRFs), and ankle angle trajectories were analysed. Results demonstrated that the BFOOT prototypes, particularly the latest prototypes, achieved a gait pattern closer to that of a healthy limb. However, challenges such as energy absorption and the limited thrust generated during the push-off phase and structural failures of certain components were identified. The study also highlighted limitations, including a small sample size for in vivo testing, the absence of extensive in vitro simulations, and the need for improved structural analysis of mechanical components. Future developments should focus on standardising test protocols, conducting trials with larger amputee populations, and refining mechanical design to enhance durability and performance. This work represents a significant step forward in the field of prosthetic design, paving the way for further advancements to improve the quality of life for amputees through more natural and efficient prosthetic solutions.
In Vivo and in Vitro Testing of a Bio-Inspired Ankle-Foot Passive Prosthesis for Functional Validation
LARPITELLI, RODOLFO
2023/2024
Abstract
This study focuses on the functional validation of bioinspired prosthetic feet aimed at reducing the gap between biological and artificial limbs in terms of biomechanics and design. The research began with an anatomical analysis of the human ankle-foot complex and culminated in the creation of the BFOOT-UP, an innovative prosthetic foot designed to replicate the joint mechanics and plantar arch of a healthy limb. The testing phase involved both in vivo and limited in vitro experiments to evaluate the biomechanical performance of various BFOOT prototypes compared to a healthy limb and a commercially available prosthetic foot (CF). Key parameters such as Roll-Over-Shape (ROS), ankle angular velocity, Ground Reaction Forces (GRFs), and ankle angle trajectories were analysed. Results demonstrated that the BFOOT prototypes, particularly the latest prototypes, achieved a gait pattern closer to that of a healthy limb. However, challenges such as energy absorption and the limited thrust generated during the push-off phase and structural failures of certain components were identified. The study also highlighted limitations, including a small sample size for in vivo testing, the absence of extensive in vitro simulations, and the need for improved structural analysis of mechanical components. Future developments should focus on standardising test protocols, conducting trials with larger amputee populations, and refining mechanical design to enhance durability and performance. This work represents a significant step forward in the field of prosthetic design, paving the way for further advancements to improve the quality of life for amputees through more natural and efficient prosthetic solutions.File | Dimensione | Formato | |
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https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.12608/80167