Application of the Total Ergonomics in Designing Functional Prosthetic Ankle with Low Cost in Indonesia

Abstract

Prosthetic foot is an amputee's need to fulfil their functional activities. In Indonesia, prosthetics with functional ankle foot are still imported from developed countries. The purpose of this paper is how to apply the total ergonomics in designing prosthetic ankles for below-knee amputee as functional at a low-cost. The total ergonomics is applied to produce prosthetic ankle designs by integrating design needs through a systemic and holistic approach, and manufacturing needs through an interdisciplinary and participatory approach. The qualitative research method with Focus Group Discussion (FGD) to discuss the design of prosthetic ankles through several questions discussed. Participants in the discussion, according to their respective fields of expertise were 14 people, including 1 orthopaedics doctor, 2 experts in making prosthetics, and 7 people using below-knee prosthetic foot, 2 product designer experts, and 2 metal workshop experts. All participants were asked to provide input on the prosthetic ankle design requirements. This study produced a prosthetic ankle design in cases of below-knee amputee that has a multi-Axis capability, energy store-return, according to local conditions, culture, economy, and available materials, allowing them to increase their mobility.