Análise dinâmica e desenvolvimento de protótipo de junta de joelho para amputados dos membros inferiores

Abstract

This study focuses on the analysis of the movements of the lower limbs of the human body, with emphasis on the knee joint and the functioning of prostheses. The purpose was to understand the functioning of a prosthesis donated to the Federal Technological University of Paraná (UTFPR). Through the design of a simplified four-bar system, kinematic and kinetic analysis, the results obtained were compared to the mathematical model, by using SolidWorks® and Matlab® softwares. The data obtained showed a correspondence between the analyses of the two softwares, highlighting the functionality of the prosthesis. The resulting prototype, manufactured by additive manufacturing, was dimensioned based on the information from the kinematic and kinetic analyses, and proved to be feasible. Based on studies and research on biodynamics, as well as data from the Brazilian Unified Health System (SUS), regarding the increase in the number of amputees, whether due to illness, accidents, or birth, this study seeks to contribute to the use and dissemination of engineering tools in order to provide amputees with more quality of life and autonomy. This study contributes to the advance in the understanding of the movement and efforts involved in knee prostheses for lower limb amputees, as well as to the development of customized prototypes through additive manufacturing.