Intuitive Control of a Hybrid Prosthetic Leg During Ambulation

The Hybrid Knee uses an actively variable transmission in combination of a passive spring/damper system. This allows the motor torque output to be adapted to the requirements of active dynamic tasks - changing the effective transmission ration from zero (fully passive) for level ground walking to a maximum value (fully active) for sit-to-stand transfers. This provides physiological knee torque and speed with a small motor and primary transmission system while also maximizing electrical efficiency, which minimized battery weight. The knee prototype weights 1.7kg. The Semi-active ankle can actively reposition during non-weight bearing phases of gait and uses a non back driveable transmission to maintain its set point during weight bearing activities.

Participants will participate in training sessions of community skills and advanced ambulation training for their home, prescribed passive prosthesis.