Hwan Choi

Abstract

Researchers at the University of Central Florida have developed an innovative, bio-inspired ankle-foot prosthesis that can automatically adjust its ankle stiffness to accommodate different activities. For example, the device can quickly adapt to walking conditions such as inclines, declines, and uneven soft or hard surfaces. The novel prosthesis uses a highly efficient energy recycling device that mimics the saddle spring mechanism found in a stomatopod known as the mantis shrimp.

Current passive prostheses for individuals with below-knee amputations typically provide a single stiffness setting that can lead to improper walking behaviors such as asymmetry, increased musculature demands, and excessive joint load. Though other prostheses address some of the ankle stiffness and walking issues, the devices are slow to respond and are rigid, bulky and heavy.

Technical Details

The UCF technology is a lightweight prosthesis that provides efficient high-energy return using a mechanism with a unique core comprising different rigid and compliant layers. The design enables the device to support continuous changes in curvature as the orientation of the user varies. A direct-current brushless motor in the prosthesis enables the mechanism to rotate and quickly change stiffness to suit different walking conditions. In one embodiment, a rigid foot blade material allows the prosthesis to store energy during the stance phase.

Partnering Opportunity

The research team is looking for partners to develop the technology further for commercialization.

Benefit

Market Application

Abstract

The University of Central Florida invention relates to a new design for ankle-foot prostheses that incorporates a hybrid closed loop pneumatic and hydraulic system to control the level of stiffness and energy return timing during walking.

Abstract

Researchers at the University of Central Florida have designed a face mask that conveniently rolls into a necklace-like device that also sterilizes the mask when not in use. The World Health Organization (WHO) and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) strongly recommend wearing a mask to prevent infections and to mitigate the spread of contagious diseases such as COVID-19, severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), and middle east respiratory syndrome (MERS). However, users can often misplace or forget to wear their masks when needed. They may also unintentionally contaminate their masks during donning or doffing and may not be diligent about sterilizing the masks. Thus, it is crucial to improve the face mask design so that individuals remember to wear their masks and can safely and easily sterilize the masks after use.

Technical Details

The UCF design allows a user to conveniently wear the device like a necklace and quickly deploy and use the face mask as needed. In one example application, the mask is encased in a replaceable cartridge and rolls up and down via rotational springs and rachet gears inside the device. A user can easily pull up the mask by the ear loops and securely place it over the nose and mouth, adjusting for size as needed.  When the mask is no longer needed, the user presses a button on the device to disengage the ratchet gears and recoil the mask back into its housing. Inside the housing, arrays of ultraviolet (UV) lights sterilize the mask, which is oriented on glass rods in a zigzag pattern. The design allows the UV light to disinfect both the front and back of the mask. A USB-C port enables the use of a rechargeable battery.

Partnering Opportunity

The research team is looking for partners to develop the technology further for commercialization.

Benefit

Market Application

Publications

Development of a novel self-sanitizing mask prototype to combat the spread of infectious disease and reduce unnecessary waste. Scientific Reports, volume 11, Article number: 18213 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-021-97357-6

Abstract

Researchers at the University of Central Florida have developed a device with a unique learning algorithm to maximize the propulsion efficiency of passive prostheses used by individuals with transtibial (below-knee) amputations. The UCF real-time adjustable energy-releasing device enables leg and ankle prostheses to control stored energy and release it at appropriate times to propel the body forward. The device attaches to existing passive prostheses or can be included in the production of new prostheses.

A conventional passive prosthesis (such as one with a carbon fiber foot) stores energy as the user applies weight and then returns energy as the body moves forward. However, it cannot control the timing of the energy release. As a result, the prosthesis may not release stored energy at optimal times during the gait cycle. Instead, it may release an upward force, causing the user to use other muscles to maintain a steady gait.

Technical Details

The following example setup of the invention includes a module and steel wires attached to the prosthesis. In the module, a sensor communicates with a microcontroller to determine appropriate times for releasing stored energy and providing propulsion along the direction of travel. The user can manually set the energy release timing or let the optimized algorithm set the timing. The module also can be configured to detect the type of walking surface (such as grass, pavement or incline/decline) to provide optimal energy release timing.

Partnering Opportunity

The research team is looking for partners to develop the technology further for commercialization.

Benefit

Market Application