A Complete Robotic Knee As a Tool for a Better Understanding of Joint Dynamics

有人提出，目前的理解膝关节力学可以大大提高使用先进的机器人工具来模拟关节的力学。该项目的目标是建立一个完整的人类学精确的膝盖机器人模型，包括模拟肌肉的致动器和测量关节位置和力量的传感器阵列。该模型将用于探索一些领域，但是，将特别关注关节内的韧带，以探索它们在改善系统控制和产生特定响应所需的力方面的作用。该系统还将应用于膝关节置换术植入物设计的临床前测试，作为比现有临床前测试更准确和快速的方法。

It is proposed that current understanding of knee mechanics could be greatly improved by using advanced robotic tools to simulate the mechanics of the joint. The project aim is to build a complete anthropologically accurate robotic model of the knee complete with actuators to simulate muscles and sensor arrays to measure joint position and forces. The model will be used to explore a number of areas, however, a particular focus will be put on the ligaments within the joint in order to explore their role in improving both the control of the system and forces required to produce a particular response. The system will also have applications in the preclinical testing of implant designs for knee arthroplasty as a more accurate and rapid method than existing preclinical practises.