Development of a Robust Sensory Feedback System for Persons with Lower-Limb Sensory Deficits

This project develops a system to provide auxiliary sensory feedback in the lower limbs of amputees and enhance sensory function for individuals with disabilities through functional capacity and thereby improve their mobility and quality of life. The Farus sensory feedback system detects force loads at the base of the foot or prosthesis and translates this force, via pneumatic control system, to pressures on the upper thigh using tactile balloon actuators. By providing tactile stimuli on the skin of the upper leg, the system uses a novel information feedback pathway. During Phase I of this project, Farus built on the foundation of the prior research effort by designing a sensory feedback system that is practical for activities of daily living. During Phase II this project finalizes the system design, fabricates multiple systems for clinical use, and examines system efficacy through biomechanical clinical trials.