[AMP-L] Microprocessor-controlled Smart Limbs

[Wayne Renardson]

via Indian Space Research Organization:

As a spin-off of Space technology, ISRO develops an intelligent 
artificial limb likely to be commercialised soon, expectedly cheaper 
by about ten times, benefitting above-knee amputees to walk with a 
comfortable gait. These `microprocessor-controlled knees (MPKs)´ 
offer extended capabilities for the amputee than those offered by the 
passive limbs that do not use the microprocessors. Thus far, a 1.6 kg 
MPK has enabled an amputee to walk about 100 m in the corridor with 
minimum support. Efforts to improvise the performance are underway.

These smart MPKs are being developed by Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre 
(VSSC), ISRO under an MoU with National Institute for Locomotor 
disabilities (NILD), Pt. Deendayal Upadhyaya National Institute for 
Persons with Physical Disabilities (Divyangjan) (PDUNIPPD (D)), and 
Artificial Limb Manufacturing Corporation of India (ALIMCO).

Configuration and working: 

The rest of the story, with photos & illustration, here:

https://tinyurl.com/2hd7fjzl

Wayne R.