The Technology of the POWER KNEE
A combination of accelerometers, gyroscopes, a torque sensor and load cell work together to monitor the position and movement of the knee. They also measure with great accuracy the forces and load applied to the knee at any given moment.
The data is streamed through to the onboard computer, where advanced artificial intelligence works out exactly what type of activity the user is engaged in and successfully predicts the next intended movement. AI also assesses gait symmetry in order to stimulate highly efficient gait patterns, which help to minimize strain on the back, hips and sound leg.
An electromechanical actuator delivers a range of responses, including active lifting power for stairs, resistance for downhill slopes and gentle propulsion for level ground walking.
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Sense
Sensor Technology
The accelerometers and gyroscopes used in the POWER KNEE are small IC chips (integrated circuits), incorporated in electronic printed circuit boards. The first measures acceleration within a three-dimensional space, helping to determine the course of the prosthesis and the activity it is engaged in. Gyroscopes sense the position of the knee, enabling the user to be more aware of their prosthetic limb in time and space.
Customization
Adjustments and tuning
Bluetooth communication enables a simple wireless connection with a PC, from which the POWER KNEE’s PowerLogic software can be fine-tuned according to the levels of fitness and rehabilitation of different users. Adjustments can be made to the amount of flexion provided during level walking and stair ascent, for example, and for the level of assistance provided by the motor while climbing stairs (stronger users often require less). In this way, the knee can be fully customized to suit individual needs.
A league of its own
World's first motor-powered prosthetic knee
A torque meter recreates the natural feeling of bounce when the leg comes into contact with the ground, absorbing shock and helping to protect back and hips. Whereas other knee systems only provide resistance to knee buckling, the POWER KNEE also replaces the concentric muscle function that is lost following amputation (the shortening action of muscles needed to generate power). This power motion enables complex sequences of movement puts the POWER KNEE in a league of its own.