Skip to Main Content
 

Global Search Box

 
 
 
 

ETD Abstract Container

Abstract Header

Development of University of Toledo Knee Simulator: First Generation

Dauster, Andrew J.

Abstract Details

2011, Master of Science, University of Toledo, Mechanical Engineering.

The objective of this thesis is to describe the design, development, and initial testing of the first generation of the UT Knee Simulator. The simulator was designed to simulate normal, weight bearing, daily living activities such as squatting or rowing and therefore allowed in-vitro testing with the lower limb in a vertical or horizontal position. Design and development included muscle simulation, correct movement of hip and ankle, data acquisition, and muscle simulation control. For better physiologic conditions of movement, the foot was considered fixed in space, the ankle free to rotate in each axis, to a limited degree, and the hip was limited to planar rotation. The hip rotation point was attached to a linearly sliding plate constrained to only move in an axial motion. Two servomotors, in conjunction with planetary gear systems, were used to simulate the loadings of the quadriceps and hamstring muscles. Each of the load straps were instrumented with load gauges. A flexible driveshaft was utilized with a hanging weight to drive the internal and external loaded rotation of the tibia. A programmable logic controller was used to communicate with both of the motors and all of the instrumentation. Of particular interest to this examination was the capability and interaction of antagonist muscles to limit and control motion of the knee. Horizontal and vertical orientations of the construct were used for the testing, as well as internally, externally, and neutral loadings of the tibia.

Results obtained utilizing the UT Knee Simulator were repeatable and show that the UT Knee Simulator functions well when compared to other data sources, indicating it is a reliable starting point from which an advanced version may be created to better mimic the physiologic loading in the knee. Data developed from this simulator may be used to better understand the motions and loading in the knee, and design better orthopedic implants as well as physical therapy regimens.

Mohamed Hefzy, PhD (Committee Chair)
Vijay Goel, PhD (Committee Member)
Charles Armstrong, PhD (Committee Member)
316 p.

Recommended Citations

Citations

  • Dauster, A. J. (2011). Development of University of Toledo Knee Simulator: First Generation [Master's thesis, University of Toledo]. OhioLINK Electronic Theses and Dissertations Center. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=toledo1302050679

    APA Style (7th edition)

  • Dauster, Andrew. Development of University of Toledo Knee Simulator: First Generation. 2011. University of Toledo, Master's thesis. OhioLINK Electronic Theses and Dissertations Center, http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=toledo1302050679.

    MLA Style (8th edition)

  • Dauster, Andrew. "Development of University of Toledo Knee Simulator: First Generation." Master's thesis, University of Toledo, 2011. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=toledo1302050679

    Chicago Manual of Style (17th edition)