The use of design software in biomechanical engineering; the design of a force sensitive, single degree of freedom digit for a myoelectric prosthetic hand

Cranny, A, Cotton, DPJ, Chappell, PH and White, NM (2005) The use of design software in biomechanical engineering; the design of a force sensitive, single degree of freedom digit for a myoelectric prosthetic hand. Ainslie, G and Dennis, JL (eds.) Institute of Physics and Engineering in Medicine, Annual Scientific Meeting 2005, Glasgow. 06 - 08 Sep 2005. p. 31 .

Abstract

The use of commercially available modeling software in the design of a force sensitive, single degree of freedom finger for a myoelectric prosthetic hand is discussed. The CAD package Autodesk Inventor® [1] has been used to redesign the linkage mechanism of a pre-existing finger [2] to allow the attachment at the distal end of a cantilever beam incorporating both static and dynamic force sensors [3]. The animation features of this package have been extensively used to visualize the movement of the proposed finger link structure, ensuring an unhindered, natural anthropomorphic flexion and extension. The finite element analysis package ANSYS® has also been used to model the strain profile across the surface of the cantilever beam to assist in the optimum placement of the force sensors and to determine the effects of different methods of mechanical attachment of the beam to the distal finger link [4]. Using these software packages, we are presently in the process of designing a complete myoelectric prosthetic hand with independent control in the movement of each force sensitive finger and thumb, permitting a range of different grip postures. In the near future we anticipate commencing patient trials to test for functionality and user acceptability.

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Contributors

Author: NM White

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