抄録
We tried to provide the artificial sensory feedback to the AK-prosthesis, and contrived some evaluation to certify its effects.
The feedback system was composed with the portable electric stimulater and the foot-knee sensors.
After the preparatory examination, the most effective and useful stimulating condition was found to be the rectangular wave form of 0.1msec pulse width, 50pps frequency, 50v voltage.
1) The foot sensor was composed of the ON-OFF tape switches.
The switches were laid on the rear (the hind part), the inside and outside of the ball, and the toe of the shoe sole.
The information from the foot sensor was transmitted to posterior, medial, lateral, and anterior aspect of the thigh.
2) The knee sensor (the goniometer) was composed of the potentiometer.
The knee angle information was transmitted to the multiple electrodes those were arranged both anterior and posterior adjoining the suture.
3) The difference limen of floor inclination was perceived more accurately with the foot contact feedback.
On the pedoscope, the sway of the body could be reduced with the aid of the foot sensor.
4) The prosthetic swing motion was measured using a forceplate and a goniometer.
As a result, swing of the prosthesis became smoother and foot strap was much improved when the sensation was available.
