I am an engineering student doing research in the field of orthosis. My
group members and I have come up with a design for a knee brace for people
with weak quadriceps. The brace has three main functions:
1. A load-induced lockout, allowing the knee to swing freely when there is
no load but immobilizing it when there is.
2. Swing control of the gait cycle.
3. A power assist system that imitates the function of the quadriceps, thus
helping the person ascend stairs and similar obstacles.
Preliminary research showed that people with post-polio syndrome would be
ideal candidates for this brace. If you know of any further applications of
this brace, we would greatly appreciate your feedback. Thank you for your
time and consideration.
Helen
