Diseño y fabricación de una prótesis de pie de respuesta dinámica en fibra de carbono

Abstract

The main goal of this study is to design a foot prosthesis for transtibial amputees that can be produced in Colombia and reaches the performance requirements for an active lifestyle. The material meant for this purpose is a carbon fiber composite due to is high strength, modulus and stiffness and moderate cost. The matrix of the composite is a low modulus epoxy resin to ensure a fiber-dominated strength case. The prosthesis is designed for the average Colombian amputee, weighting 80kg (175lb) and having foot dimensions 27cm (10.6in) long and 8cm (3.15in) wide, and for a high activity level, in which vertical forces can reach up to 350% of bodyweight. The prosthesis is designed using mathematical models and validated using Finite Element Analysis software. The design includes the foot prosthesis and an aluminum alloy pyramid adapter. The prosthesis is intended to be manufactured initially by lamination and later by vacuum infusion and water cutting pretending to be produced, in a near future, at a scale that answers the need of foot prosthesis in Colombia. © Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg 2007.