Adjustable suspension system for lower limb prosthesis

Abstract

Abstract The contact between the stump and the lower limb prosthesis has to be provided by its suspension system. The paper presents a solution for an adjustable suspension designed as an inflated cell network. Each cell is supplied with controlled pressure and consequently, a contact force with the skin is developed. By varying the pressure value inside the cell, we may provide variable force, so the compensation for the volume change of the stump could be accomplished. The material the cells are made of should have special properties, the elasticity being the most important. Moreover, the goal of the paper was to approve the opportunity to use the silicone rubber Zhermack for the cell material and a mechatronic system has been realised as experimental set-up.