Digital electronic controller for above knee leg prostheses

Abstract

ABSTRACT A digital electronic controller scheme has been proposed to control the angle at knee and ankle joints in above knee ( A/ K) lower extremity prostheses during locomotion. The control strategy is based on close scrutiny of locomotion in normal human beings. Laboratory testing of the proposed sequential network confirmed the uniqueness of the controller in providing signals to get desired state of prostheses at every stage during swing phase of walking. The use of such a controller would relieve handicapped subjects of awkwardness during walking and there will not be unnecessary stress on the remaining part of an amputated limb. If successful in field testing such a controller can be mass-produced and would offer advantages of compactness, lightness and high efficiency. Apart from prosthetic devices the controller may find applications in robot arm movements