scholarly journals Passive Prosthetic Foot Shape and Size Optimization Using Lower Leg Trajectory Error

2018 ◽  
Vol 140 (10) ◽  
Author(s):  
Kathryn M. Olesnavage ◽  
Victor Prost ◽  
William Brett Johnson ◽  
Amos G. Winter
Keyword(s):  
Mechanical Design ◽  
Three Dimensional ◽  
Field Trials ◽  
Lower Leg ◽  
Element Analysis ◽  
Trajectory Error ◽  
Design Objective ◽  
Prosthetic Foot ◽  
Single Part ◽  
Shape And Size

A method is presented to optimize the shape and size of a passive, energy-storing prosthetic foot using the lower leg trajectory error (LLTE) as the design objective. The LLTE is defined as the root-mean-square error between the lower leg trajectory calculated for a given prosthetic foot's deformed shape under typical ground reaction forces (GRFs), and a target physiological lower leg trajectory obtained from published gait data for able-bodied walking. Using the LLTE as a design objective creates a quantitative connection between the mechanical design of a prosthetic foot (stiffness and geometry) and its anticipated biomechanical performance. The authors' prior work has shown that feet with optimized, low LLTE values can accurately replicate physiological kinematics and kinetics. The size and shape of a single-part compliant prosthetic foot made out of nylon 6/6 were optimized for minimum LLTE using a wide Bezier curve to describe its geometry, with constraints to produce only shapes that could fit within a physiological foot's geometric envelope. Given its single part architecture, the foot could be cost effectively manufactured with injection molding, extrusion, or three-dimensional printing. Load testing of the foot showed that its maximum deflection was within 0.3 cm (9%) of finite element analysis (FEA) predictions, ensuring the constitutive behavior was accurately characterized. Prototypes were tested on six below-knee amputees in India—the target users for this technology—to obtain qualitative feedback, which was overall positive and confirmed the foot is ready for extended field trials.

scholarly journals Passive Prosthetic Foot Shape and Size Optimization Using Lower Leg Trajectory Error

2017 ◽  
Author(s):  
Kathryn M. Olesnavage ◽  
Amos G. Winter
Keyword(s):  
Optimal Design ◽  
Compliant Mechanism ◽  
Lower Leg ◽  
Degree Of Freedom ◽  
Analytical Models ◽  
Element Analysis ◽  
Trajectory Error ◽  
Prosthetic Foot ◽  
Two Degree Of Freedom ◽  
Shape And Size

A method is presented to optimize the shape and size of a passive prosthetic foot using the Lower Leg Trajectory Error (LLTE) as the design objective. The LLTE is defined as the root-mean-square error between the lower leg trajectory calculated for a given prosthetic foot by finding the deformed shape of the foot under typical ground reaction forces and a target physiological lower leg trajectory obtained from published gait data for able-bodied walking. In previous work, the design of simple two degree-of-freedom analytical models consisting of rigid structures, rotational joints with constant stiffness, and uniform cantilevered beams, have been optimized for LLTE. However, prototypes built to replicate these simple models were large, heavy, and overly complex. In this work, the size and shape of a single-part compliant prosthetic foot keel made out of nylon 6/6 was optimized for LLTE to produce a light weight, low cost, and easily manufacturable prosthetic foot design. The shape of the keel was parameterized as a wide Bézier curve, with constraints ensuring that only physically meaningful shapes were considered. The LLTE value for each design was evaluated using a custom MATLAB script, which ran ADINA finite element analysis software to find the deformed shape of the prosthetic keel under multiple loading scenarios. The optimization was performed by MATLAB’s built-in genetic algorithm. After the optimal design for the keel was found, a heel was added to structure, sized such that when the user’s full weight acted on the heel, the structure had a factor of safety of two. The resulting optimal design has a lower LLTE value than the two degree-of-freedom analytical models, at 0.154 compared to 0.172, 0.187, and 0.269 for the two degree-of-freedom models. At 412 g, the optimal wide curve foot is nearly half the mass of the lightest prototype built from the previous models, which was 980 g. The design found through this compliant mechanism optimization method is thus far superior to the two degree-of-freedom models previously considered.

scholarly journals Design and Testing of a Prosthetic Foot Prototype With Interchangeable Custom Rotational Springs to Adjust Ankle Stiffness for Evaluating Lower Leg Trajectory Error, an Optimization Metric for Prosthetic Feet

2017 ◽  
Author(s):  
Victor Prost ◽  
Kathryn M. Olesnavage ◽  
Amos G. Winter
Keyword(s):  
Optimization Method ◽  
Lower Leg ◽  
Trajectory Error ◽  
Preliminary Testing ◽  
Design Objective ◽  
Rigid Structure ◽  
Prosthetic Foot ◽  
Constant Stiffness ◽  
Ankle Stiffness ◽  
Prosthetic Feet

A prosthetic foot prototype intended for evaluating a novel design objective for passive prosthetic feet, the Lower Leg Trajectory Error (LLTE), is presented. This metric enables the optimization of prosthetic feet by modeling the trajectory of the lower leg segment throughout a step for a given prosthetic foot and selecting design variables to minimize the error between this trajectory and target physiological lower leg kinematics. Thus far, previous work on the LLTE has mainly focused on optimizing conceptual foot architectures. To further study this metric, extensive clinical testing on prototypes optimized using this method has to be performed. Initial prototypes replicating the LLTE-optimal designs in previous work were optimized and built, but at 1.3 to 2.1 kg they proved too heavy and bulky to be considered for testing. A new, fully-characterized foot design reducing the weight of the final prototype while enabling ankle stiffness to be varied is presented and optimized for LLTE. The novel merits of this foot are that it can replicate a similar quasi-stiffness and range of motion of a physiological ankle, and be tested with variable ankle stiffnesses to test their effect on LLTE. The foot consists of a rotational ankle joint with interchangeable U-shaped constant stiffness springs ranging from 1.5 Nm/deg to 16 Nm/deg, a rigid structure extending 0.093 m from the ankle-knee axis, and a cantilever beam forefoot with a bending stiffness of 16 Nm2. The prototype was built using machined acetal resin for the rigid structure, custom nylon springs for the ankle, and a nylon beam forefoot. In preliminary testing, this design performed as predicted and its modularity allowed us to rapidly change the springs to vary the ankle stiffness of the foot. Qualitative feedback from preliminary testing showed that this design is ready to be used in larger-scale studies. In future work, extensive clinical studies with testing different ankle stiffnesses will be conducted to validate the optimization method using the LLTE as a design objective.

Design and Analysis of a Tow Truck’s Lifting Organ

2014 ◽  
Vol 644-650 ◽  
pp. 137-141
Author(s):  
Guo Sheng Zhang ◽  
Wei Zhou ◽  
Ye Chen ◽  
Jian Qiang Gong
Keyword(s):  
Mechanical Design ◽  
Three Dimensional ◽  
Operation Condition ◽  
Element Analysis ◽  
Vehicle Accidents ◽  
Local Strength ◽  
The Finite Element Analysis ◽  
Design Software ◽  
Mechanics Characteristics ◽  
Game Type

According to the super large or heavy vehicle accidents existing wrecker cannot complete the wrecker rescue mission independent problems, puts forward the design of a practical game type crane wrecker. The hoisting mechanism as the research object, the traditional mechanical method is designed and calculated, then the three-dimensional entity model using 3D mechanical design software Solidworks, and imported into the finite element analysis software ANSYS to analyze the static mechanics characteristics of the structure, to improve the local strength of short position. On this basis, a lifting test vehicle prototype, rated load operation and overload operation condition test, and measure its subsidence. With the analysis of the experiment results, show that the design truck lifting organ can meet the demand of the technology.

Ladle Transportation Car Frame Finite Element Analysis

2012 ◽  
Vol 591-593 ◽  
pp. 841-844
Author(s):  
Ping Tang ◽  
Chun Hua Pan
Keyword(s):  
Finite Element Analysis ◽  
Finite Element ◽  
Optimization Design ◽  
Mechanical Design ◽  
Three Dimensional ◽  
Electrical Measurement ◽  
Stress And Strain ◽  
Three Dimensional Model ◽  
Element Analysis ◽  
The Finite Element Analysis

Using the mechanical design of the software Solid works to established the 280 t LF the ladle furnace transportation car frame three dimensional model, and by using the finite element analysis of software Cosmos/works to static analysis for the frames, revealing that the frame of structure stress and strain distribution map of the frame, and also reveals that dangerous points and dangerous sections. Using resistance strain gauge to measure 280 t ladle transportation car frame, it is concluded that the frame of stress and strain distributions. Through the electrical measurement test the results were compared with finite element analysis results, further proof that the finite element analysis of the accuracy of the results provides theory basis for the optimization design of the frames.

The Finite Element Modeling and Analysis of Involute Spur Gear

2012 ◽  
Vol 516-517 ◽  
pp. 673-677 ◽  
Author(s):  
Shun Xu ◽  
Yan Zhang
Keyword(s):  
Finite Element ◽  
Mechanical Design ◽  
Three Dimensional ◽  
Spur Gear ◽  
Analysis Model ◽  
Element Analysis ◽  
Finite Element Analysis Model ◽  
Modeling And Analysis ◽  
Gear Mesh ◽  
Design Software

Through three-dimensional mechanical design software Pro/E to build a spur gear solid model, using ANSYS software for the gear mesh, as well as the constraints imposed by the most unfavorable load to determine the location of the discussion, in order to get accurate finite element analysis model. By analyzing, this shows that the effectiveness of the application of ANSYS in gear calculation.

scholarly journals Assessment of Mechanical Design Parameters for an Aero Gas Turbine Engine Jet Pipe Casing using Finite Element Analysis

2020 ◽  
Vol 9 (5) ◽  
pp. 1197-1201
Keyword(s):  
Finite Element Analysis ◽  
Finite Element ◽  
Gas Turbine ◽  
Mechanical Design ◽  
Three Dimensional ◽  
Gas Turbine Engine ◽  
Design Parameters ◽  
Element Analysis ◽  
Engine Operation ◽  
Turbine Engine

Aero Gas Turbine engines power aircrafts for civil transport application as well as for military fighter jets. Jet pipe casing assembly is one of the critical components of such an Aero Gas Turbine engine. The objective of the casing is to carry out the required aerodynamic performance with a simultaneous structural performance. The Jet pipe casing assembly located in the rear end of the engine would, in case of fighter jet, consist of an After Burner also called as reheater which is used for thrust augmentation to meet the critical additional thrust requirement as demanded by the combat environment in the war field. The combustion volume for the After burner operation together with the aerodynamic conditions in terms of pressure, temperature and optimum air velocity is provided by the Jet pipe casing. While meeting the aerodynamic requirements, the casing is also expected to meet the structural requirements. The casing carries a Convergent-Divergent Nozzle in the downstream side (at the rear end) and in the upstream side the casing is attached with a rear mount ring which is an interface between engine and the airframe. The mechanical design parameters involving Strength reserve factors, Fatigue Life, Natural Frequencies along with buckling strength margins are assessed while the Jet pipe casing delivers the aerodynamic outputs during the engine operation. A three dimensional non linear Finite Element analysis of the Jet pipe casing assembly is carried out, considering the up & down stream aerodynamics together with the mechanical boundary conditions in order to assess the Mechanical design parameters.

scholarly journals Design and Preliminary Testing of a Prototype for Evaluating Lower Leg Trajectory Error as an Optimization Metric for Prosthetic Feet

2016 ◽  
Author(s):  
Kathryn M. Olesnavage ◽  
Amos G. Winter
Keyword(s):  
Lower Leg ◽  
Clinical Testing ◽  
Trajectory Error ◽  
Preliminary Testing ◽  
Rigid Structure ◽  
Prosthetic Foot ◽  
Constant Stiffness ◽  
Prosthetic Feet ◽  
Future Work ◽  
Novel Design

This work presents the design and preliminary testing of a prosthetic foot prototype intended for evaluating a novel design objective for passive prosthetic feet, the Lower Leg Trajectory Error (LLTE). Thus far, all work regarding LLTE has been purely theoretical. The next step is to perform extensive clinical testing. An initial prototype consisting of rotational ankle and metatarsal joints with constant rotational stiffness was optimized and built, but at 2 kg it proved too heavy to use in clinical testing. A new conceptual foot architecture intended to reduce the weight of the final prototype is presented and optimized for LLTE. This foot consists of a rotational ankle joint with constant stiffness of 6.1 N·m/deg, a rigid structure extending 0.08 m from the ankle-knee axis, and a cantilever beam forefoot with bending stiffness 5.4 N·m2. A prototype was built using machined delrin for the rigid structure, three parallel extension springs offset along a constant radius cam from a pin joint ankle, and machined nylon as the beam forefoot. In preliminary testing, it was determined that, despite efforts to minimize weight and size, this particular design was still too heavy and bulky as a result of the extension springs to be used in extensive clinical testing. Future work will focus on reducing the weight further by replacing linear extension springs with flexural elements before commencing with the clinical study.

Multi-Keel Passive Prosthetic Foot Design Optimization Using the Lower Leg Trajectory Error Framework

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Victor Prost ◽  
Heidi V. Peterson ◽  
Amos G. Winter
Keyword(s):  
Low Cost ◽  
Lower Leg ◽  
International Standards ◽  
Limb Amputation ◽  
Average Error ◽  
Static Tests ◽  
Prosthetic Devices ◽  
Trajectory Error ◽  
Prosthetic Foot ◽  
Prosthetic Feet

Abstract People with lower-limb amputation in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) lack access to adequate prosthetic devices that would restore their mobility and increase their quality of life. This is largely due to the cost and durability of existing devices. Single-keel energy storage and return (ESR) prosthetic feet have recently been developed to provide improved walking benefits at an affordable cost in LMICs. These low-cost single-keel ESR feet were created using a novel design methodology, the lower leg trajectory error (LLTE) framework. The LLTE framework enables the optimization of the stiffness and geometry of a user’s prosthesis to match a target walking pattern. However, these low-cost single-keel ESR prostheses do not provide the required durability to fulfill the international standards organization (ISO) testing, which prevents their widespread use and adoption. In this work, we developed a multi-keel prosthetic foot parametric model, and extended the LLTE framework to include this multi-keel architecture and the durability requirements. This extended LLTE framework enabled the design of durable and low-cost multi-keel ESR prosthetic feet made of Nylon 6/6. Multi-keel foot designs were shown to provide 76% improved walking performance (lower LLTE values) compared with single-keel ESR designs. Load testing of prototype multi-keel feet validated the multi-keel constitutive model predictions used in the LLTE framework. The measured deflections of the prototypes under load were accurately described with an average error of 0.6 ± 0.4 mm (5.7 ± 4.2%). These multi-keel feet designed using the extended LLTE framework withstood ISO fatigue and static tests, validating their durability. Given their single-part 2D extruded geometries, multi-keel feet designed with the extended LLTE framework could be cost-effectively manufactured, providing affordable and durable high-performance prostheses that improves the mobility of LMIC users.

Design and Study of Gate-Type Steel-Shuttering Jumbo for Tunnel Lining Based on CAD/CAE

2011 ◽  
Vol 84-85 ◽  
pp. 14-18
Author(s):  
Wei Ping Peng ◽  
Jun Yi Xia ◽  
Zhi Qiang Zhang
Keyword(s):  
Working Conditions ◽  
Three Dimensional ◽  
Structure Design ◽  
Tunnel Lining ◽  
Stress And Strain ◽  
Element Analysis ◽  
Design And Optimization ◽  
Type Steel ◽  
Cae Technology ◽  
Shape And Size

The gate-type steel-shuttering jumbo is key construction equipment for tunnel lining, which is usually designed for customization according to the shape and size of the tunnel. Aiming at the insufficiency of existing methods in the jumbo design, the CAD/CAE technology is introduced into the domains of the jumbo design. In this paper, the gate-type steel-shuttering jumbo for spillway lining in Xiluodu hydropower station is designed, and virtual assembly is established based on three-dimensional digital model using Pro/E software. The stress and strain of the jumbo under different working conditions are analyzed by ANSYS. The result of finite element analysis can be regarded as the basis of structure design and optimization of the jumbo, and can be used to verify the design feasibility at the same time.

scholarly journals Experimental Demonstration of the Lower Leg Trajectory Error Framework Using Physiological Data as Inputs

2020 ◽  
Vol 143 (3) ◽  
Author(s):  
Kathryn M. Olesnavage ◽  
Victor Prost ◽  
William Brett Johnson ◽  
Matthew J. Major ◽  
Amos G. Winter
Keyword(s):  
Mechanical Design ◽  
Lower Leg ◽  
Physiological Data ◽  
Vertical Position ◽  
Trajectory Error ◽  
Ankle Stiffness ◽  
Rms Error ◽  
Prosthetic Feet ◽  
The Relationship ◽  
Error Testing

Abstract While many studies have attempted to characterize the mechanical behavior of passive prosthetic feet to understand their influence on amputee gait, the relationship between mechanical design and biomechanical performance has not yet been fully articulated from a fundamental physics perspective. A novel framework, called lower leg trajectory error (LLTE) framework, presents a means of quantitatively optimizing the constitutive model of prosthetic feet to match a reference kinematic and kinetic dataset. This framework can be used to predict the required stiffness and geometry of a prosthesis to yield a desired biomechanical response. A passive prototype foot with adjustable ankle stiffness was tested by a unilateral transtibial amputee to evaluate this framework. The foot condition with LLTE-optimal ankle stiffness enabled the user to replicate the physiological target dataset within 16% root-mean-square (RMS) error. Specifically, the measured kinematic variables matched the target kinematics within 4% RMS error. Testing a range of ankle stiffness conditions from 1.5 to 24.4 N·m/deg with the same user indicated that conditions with lower LLTE values deviated the least from the target kinematic data. Across all conditions, the framework predicted the horizontal/vertical position, and angular orientation of the lower leg during midstance within 1.0 cm, 0.3 cm, and 1.5 deg, respectively. This initial testing suggests that prosthetic feet designed with low LLTE values could offer benefits to users. The LLTE framework is agnostic to specific foot designs and kinematic/kinetic user targets, and could be used to design and customize prosthetic feet.

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