High Functionality Energy Efficient Prosthetic Limbs using Multi-Functional Materials

Modern prosthetics have made significant improvements in control and functionality yet battery systems powering these features are severely lacking. Even modest functionality in the most common lower limb prosthetic, the Otto Bock C leg, is typically limited to 48 hours maximum usage before battery depletion. To have continuous use prosthetics it is currently necessary to have multiple heavy battery packs, leaving the soldier as well as ordinary citizens vulnerable in dangerous situations. In this Phase I program, Infoscitex Corporation will develop a regenerative energy system for lower limb prosthetics using electroactive polymers to extend the life and reduce battery weight for these prosthetics. This system concept also has the potential to provide both shock absorbance and actuation capability. Infoscitex has teamed with the Cleveland Clinic and their artificial exo-tendon team to determine biomechanically optimum locations for these electroactive devices and make the necessary advances in flexible electrode technology for future commercialization. In a Phase II program, Infoscitex and Cleveland Clinic will further develop the electroactive polymer module to both harvest energy from and actuate lower limb prosthetics. The Infoscitex team envisions building electroactive tendon devices for existing products at the leading prosthetics firms and licensing this novel concept for more widespread application.