PROSTHETICS

Below-Knee Prosthesis
For Powerlifters

A prosthesis for people who enjoy powerlifting. The travel adjustment screws constrain the angle of the ankle dorsiflexion up to 30 degrees, which is the maximum range of usable angle. The maximum load of the shock absorber is up to 126 pounds, and the flat rubber outsole enhances both grip and traction on the ground for a better powerlifting experience. 

• PROJECT DURATION: 16 weeks
• SOFTWARE: Solidworks, Keyshot
• MODEL: 3D printed
• PROJECT TYPE: Individual

2022

The range of human ankle dorsiflexion can reach up to 30 degrees, which is dependent on the flexibility of the shank and calf muscles.

Furthermore, amputees have varying ranges of ankle movement due to the loss of a limb, leading to greater imbalances during exercise.

︎MODEL ITERATION 1

Shock Absorber and Linkages

The first model was made for the test movement of the functional part.
Making smaller scale model was very helpful to check the direction of the user's weight force during the exercise.
So I partially enhanced the part and developed it accordingly.

Device that reduces the frequency of injuries

-  Structure that can convey the force from the user's knee to the ground.
-  Suspension that supports the knee to extend the leg again.
-  Locking system for the same range of operation as the residual leg.

Angle Adjustment Device

The next thing I came up with was a fixed pin, inspired by an incline bench.
Five holes and a pin on each side of the main frame provide the ranges to be constrained during operation.
Ankle height has changed according to human ergonomics.

In the end, the regulator was moved to the heel part so it looks much more condenced.
For the adjustment screws, the threaded holes are extruded into four overlapping circles,
so that it could be fixed and not be loosened during the exercise.