In 2013, approximately 18,800 lower limb amputations and disarticulations were performed in Germany. For those affected, this means an unimaginable break in their lives.
They have to struggle with pain, undergo physical and psychological rehabilitation and find their way back to their previous lives.
Prostheses allow patients to regain their freedom and much of their lost function. At the same time, they help restore the amputee's spirit
and support psychological recovery after losing a part of themselves.
In this project, a technological demonstrator for a novel prosthesis mechanics should be designed, which illustrates the underlying mechanics and at the same time
an appealing overall picture for the end user.
Analysis
Mechanics
Derzeit existieren zwei grundlegende Arten von Oberschenkelprothesengelenken. The monocentric joint bends over only one axis. This relatively simple design creates
a small and lightweight joint, but it does not correspond to the natural anatomy, making walking unfamiliar at first. Intelligent control by microprocessors can partially
compensate for the disadvantages.
The polycentric joint replicates the natural walking motion more realistically, but is generally heavier and larger. The VarioKnee combines both types in a
new joint that combines the advantages of both.
Analysis
Design
One trend in the design of prostheses is individualization. This picks up on a new self-image of prosthesis wearers who deal openly with their own fate and display the
prosthesis with self-confidence.
An initial point of reference for design is offered by Masahiro Mori's theory of the "Uncanny Valley", which relates to the design of robots but can also be transferred
to prostheses. From this theory, it becomes clear that design should be based on human anatomy, but should not copy it.
Analysis
User survey
In order to investigate the visual and functional expectations and wishes of users for transfemoral prostheses, a survey was conducted at a cooperating
rehabilitation center. Semantic differentials in particular were used to shed light on preferences regarding appearance.
Analysis
Evaluation
Die Auswertung der Befragung ergab, dass Auf Basis der Nutzerbefragung konnte nun sehr zielgerichtet ein zeichnerischer Konzeptentwurf ausgearbeitet werden. Die Herausforderung lag vor allem darin eine Balance zwischen den Anforderungen eines Technologiedemonstrators und den Vorstellungen von den
Nutzer*innen zu finden.
Konzeptentwurf
On basis of the user survey, it was now possible to draw up a very targeted concept design. The main challenge
was to find a balance between the requirements of a technology demonstrator and the demands of the users.
Result
Als Ergebnis ist eine Oberschenkelprothese entstanden, welche als Technologiedemonstrator Einblicke in die zugrundeliegende Technologie bietet und diese dabei
durch ihr robustes und präzises Auftreten auch in der Gestaltung wiederspiegelt. Gleichzeitig konnten die Vorstellungen von Nutzer:innen berücksichtigt werden. Durch unterschiedliche Farbgebung und
austauschbare Verkleidungen, lässt sich die Anmutung schnell an verschiedene Situationen und Vorlieben anpassen.
The result is a transfemoral prosthesis which, as a technology demonstrator, offers insights into the underlying technology and reflects it in the design through its
robust and precise appearance. At the same time, the ideas of the users was taken into account. Through different color schemes and interchangeable cladding, the
appearance can be quickly adapted to different situations and preferences.
