Pistoning, the vertical displacement of the residual limb within transtibial prosthetic socket, can lead to skin breakdowns and ulcers. Downward movement is particularly difficult to self-manage for people with diabetes because of diminished sensation in the residual limb caused by peripheral neuropathy. A team of researchers have developed a lightweight, inexpensive sensing system inspired by soft robotics that can detect the occurrence and severity of downward movement at the distal end of the residual limb. Their testing found that the sensing system was highly precise.
The sensing system consists of a multilayered doughnut-shaped balloon, allowing for easy integration with pin-lock socket systems. The design allows sensing of vertical displacement without imparting high reaction forces back onto the distal end.
Systematic and parametric benchtop tests were conducted to examine the sensor’s physical characteristics and 24-hour stability of the sensor was also recorded. According to the study, compared with water, air was determined to be a better medium with a higher linear full-scale span.
The study, “Soft robotics–inspired sensing system for detecting downward movement and pistoning in prosthetic sockets: A proof-of-concept study,” was published in Prosthetics and Orthotics International.
https://journals.lww.com/poijournal/abstract/9900/soft_robotics_inspired_sensing_system_for.199.aspx
