Design of a Multi-Sensor Solution for Application in Prosthetic Sockets of Lower Limb Amputees

Lower limb amputees frequently experience discomfort, instability, and dermatological complications arising from inadequate prosthetic socket fit. These issues are primarily attributed to dynamic variations in pressure, shear stress, temperature, and residual limb volume at the limb-socket interface. In response to this challenge, the present study introduces the design and experimental validation of an innovative multi-sensor system, based on Fibre Bragg Grating (FBG) optical sensors, integrated within transtibial prosthetic sockets. A functional prototype comprising of 26 FBGs was developed and experimentally tested under controlled loading conditions. The system demonstrated consistent and anatomically coherent strain patterns through Bragg wavelength shift measurements, confirming its effectiveness for real-time biomechanical monitoring. These findings establish the groundwork for the development of intelligent, self-adaptive socket systems tailored to individual biomechanical and physiological profiles, ultimately aiming to enhance user comfort and prosthetic performance.