Advanced tuning of a trans-tibial prosthesis using motion capture and visualisation

A transtibial prosthetic alignment is a three dimensions interrelationship between a socket and a prosthetic foot. The prosthetic alignment aims to achieve the most suitable limb position for desired function and comfort. The alignment is tuned through three alignment stages; bench, static and dynamic until achieving the optimal alignment. However, the available instrumentation could not be used for assisting the prosthetist in aligning the prosthesis through all three alignment stages. This aims of this study were to investigate and develop a new alignment system that can assist the prosthetist in tuning the alignment of a trans-tibial prosthesis and to compare to Conventional Alignment Technique (ConAT). Four gait analysis protocols: Strathclyde Cluster Model (SCM), Human Body Model (HBM), Human Body Model 2 (HBM2) and Plug-in Gait (PiG) were investigated, and their reliability were explored in able-bodied and trans-tibial amputee (TTA) subjects. The SCM demonstrated good correlation, good repeatability, accuracy, and easy to use in both able-bodied and TTA subjects. The walking condition was considered as a crucial factor during gait analysis. Three walking conditions, Overground (OG), Fixed speed treadmill (FS TM) and Selfpaced treadmill (SP TM), were compared. Results demonstrated no significant difference between OG and SP TM. Therefore, SP TM can be used compatibly with OG. Furthermore, a Computerised motion capture and Visualisation system for the Assisted Alignment Technique (CVAT) was developed to read-outs of the alignment parameters in real-time. The SCM and prosthetic markers set were used to implement alignment visual feedback scenarios during three alignment stages. SP TM was used to assist alignment in the dynamic stage. Further, the CVAT was compared to the ConAT. Results of the CVAT method showed a positive effect on gait outcomes.In conclusion, the CVAT allows the prompt and qualitative prosthetic alignment and enables the prosthetist to align prosthesis objectively.

Name dc:type.qualificationname

phd

Level dc:type.qualificationlevel

doctoral-pg

Grantor dc:publisher.institution

University of Strathclyde

Year dc:date.issued

2019

Author dc:creator

• Samala, Manunchaya

Advisors dc:contributor.advisor

• Rowe, Philip
• Childs, Craig

DOI

10.48730/r8fa-6t89

Identifier

T15413

Author Identifier

201451960

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:strathclyde:kd17cs91k