APL24: Persistent in-line load sensor for osseointegrated implants
- Program: Mechanical Engineering
- Course: EN.530.404 MechE Senior Design
Project Description:
The APL24 team developed a 6-axis force-torque sensor to characterize the loads on a bone-mounted (osseo-integrated, OI) upper-arm implant. New OI prostheses permit in-line force transmission and thereby more control and comfort than other prosthetic attachments. The loads on the bone need to be understood as safe to have future technology FDA approved. The team created a device, attached proximal to the elbow, that can accurately and rapidly measure the loads that the bone experiences. The team developed algorithms to separate the measurements into three distinct loading modes and magnitudes. Checking and reporting that data in real time against threshold values then allows the user or clinician to capture actual loading during routine activities.
Project Photo:
Some APL24 team members with the sponsor, showing the osseo-integrated arm prosthetic. The APL24 team developed a way to detect forces on the implant to understand their feasibility under every day use.