Print Email Facebook Twitter The Power of Pneumatics Title The Power of Pneumatics: Design of a Novel Elbow Prosthesis Author Kieft, J. (TU Delft Mechanical, Maritime and Materials Engineering) Contributor Plettenburg, D.H. (mentor) van der Helm, F.C.T. (graduation committee) Horeman, T. (graduation committee) Degree granting institution Delft University of Technology Date 2020-11-05 Abstract Introduction: Almost 57 percent of above elbow amputees stop using their prosthesis. One of the main factors of non-wear is the high weight. Pneumatic actuation can be more lightweight than electronic actuation, and might therefore help with reducing the mass of a prosthesis and increase its comfort. To illustrate this potential, the goal of this thesis was: "To show the potential of pneumatic prostheses by designing a lightweight pneumatic elbow prosthesis, with a functionality equivalent to existing prostheses". Methods: The design process was divided into five phases: Analysis, Conceptualization, Embodiment, Manufacturing and Assembly, and Testing. The analysis brought to light the functions, requirements, wishes, and design values. The two design phases, conceptualization and embodiment, translated these into a potentially viable prosthesis. Afterwards, a prototype was manufactured, assembled, and tested to see if the functions, wishes, and requirements were met. Results: The prototype weighs almost 1300 [g]. A payload of 4.0 [kg] can be lifted to 87 [°]. In theory, 2.5 [kg] can be lifted throughout the entire range of motion, up to 140 [°]. The maximum pronation/supination torque is over 2.8 [Nm] throughout the entire range of motion of ± 90 [°]. The locking mechanism is theoretically capable of passively holding over 6 [kg] in any position. In theory, an average of 125 cycles can be achieved per 25 [g] CO2 cartridge. Discussion: The prototype does not have an integrated fuel source. The weight of the prototype exceeds the maximum by almost 280 [g]. Switching to electronic control significantly decreases the prosthesis mass. The frame of the prototype was under-constrained, leading to an increased friction for higher angles of flexion. Conclusion: The combination of the high functionality and low mass of the prototype shows potential for pneumatic actuation for prostheses. Subject PneumaticElbowProsthesisLightweight To reference this document use: http://resolver.tudelft.nl/uuid:4966f056-3774-4347-b270-521f99233f4b Part of collection Student theses Document type master thesis Rights © 2020 J. Kieft Files PDF Jim_Kieft_Thesis.pdf 26.26 MB Close viewer /islandora/object/uuid:4966f056-3774-4347-b270-521f99233f4b/datastream/OBJ/view