An Electrohydraulic Knee-Torque Controller for a Prosthesis Simulator

Abstract

A new approach for evaluating advanced concepts for knee-joint control in above-knee prostheses involves the use of a simulator prosthesis which can be worn by an amputee and controlled electronically to emulate proposed future prostheses. A critical element in this system is the knee-torque controller. Realization of a powerful, lightweight, easily controlled transducer was essential to the successful development of the simulator system. This paper presents the design of such a controller and evaluates its performance. Brief examples of studies in which the new system has been applied are given. The proven viability of the device suggests that similar actuators might aid other prosthesis/orthesis studies.