Researchers at the University of Twente and Radboudumc are developing a new generation of prosthetic technology: a bionic foot that closely replicates the bodyâs natural walking motion. Within the HealthTech Nexus partnership, they are working on the soâcalled âAutonomous legâ, a system designed to support people after a foot amputation in regaining a smooth and effortless gait.
Unlike passive prostheses or devices built on fixed movement rules, the bionic foot uses a neuromechanical model inspired by the spinal cordâs central pattern generators â neural networks that automatically produce rhythmic motions such as walking. âWe aim to build a system that functions as naturally and intuitively as possible, without requiring users to consciously control each step,â says Prof. Massimo Sartori, Professor of Neuromuscular Robotics & Engineering, University of Twente.
Promising early tests
In an initial treadmill study, a test participant walked at different speeds using the bionic prototype. The system rhythmically activated the muscles at the front and back of the lower leg, enabling a more natural walking pattern. According to Ruud Leijendekkers, associate professor and physical therapist at Radboudumc, âthis approach could ultimately reduce fatigue by lowering the cognitive effort traditionally required when using a prosthesis.â
Currently, the model still needs to be connected to an external computer. The next development step involves creating a fully standâalone, mobile system â including integrated sensors, a compact computer and a longâlasting battery â so testing can move from the lab to realâlife environments.
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