CYBERLEGS Beta-Prosthesis active knee system

The addition of active components to prostheses has the potential to extend the capabilities and reduce metabolic energy consumption of users when compared to current prosthetic technology. The CYBERLEGs Beta-Prosthesis is a new active transfemoral prosthesis that builds upon the passive principles of the CYBERLEGs Alpha-Prosthesis. The prosthesis has two active degrees of freedom, one in the ankle and one in the knee. The knee actuator is a totally new design consisting of a Weight Acceptance mechanism, Active knee drive that incorporates a primarily passive Baseline Spring system, and Energy Transfer mechanism. The use of low power motors in the knee has the potential to lead to a prosthesis that is electrically energy efficient for normal gait that is also capable of providing power for intensive actions such as stair climbing and sit-to-stand motions. Preliminary trials have shown basic walking functionality and results are described. Although this study focused on the usability of the prosthesis and general overall function, it is hoped that with better control the device will eventually be able to lead to an electrically efficient device which also can reduce user metabolic input during ambulation.