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Back on a sure footing
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The Intelligent Prosthesis Plus, another computerised above-knee limb was rated high before the adaptive knee came, according to Endolite, a firm committed to bring cheer to the physically challenged.
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Limbs for those who need them — like Suranjana Ghosh.
CALL IT bio-mechanics or an amalgam of Electronics, Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science, it is a wonder. The science of making artificial limbs has advanced rapidly, as `intelligent limbs' come to the aid of amputees, who prefer to spend just that much more for a device that actually puts them back on their feet.
The new generation of devices communicate with the physically challenged, and prove to be a stable aid for `forced' disability, that otherwise threatens to ruin families and relationships.
One of the advances is the second generation microprocessor controlled lower limb prosthesis.
Called the adaptive knee, its programming facility `reads' the terrain and adjusts to walking speeds of the user. Microprocessor controlled hydraulic and pneumatic systems perfect the swing and stance motions.
Sensors detect gradient, whether it is descending ramps, stairs, sitting and standing.
A pre-programmed `stance resistance mode', during `installation of the knee' tends to work to coordinate with the amputee's ability.
The Intelligent Prosthesis Plus, another computerised above-knee limb was rated high before the adaptive knee came, according to Endolite, a firm committed to bring cheer to the physically challenged. Cardio-pulmonary and cognitive tests have graded the system high in terms of `low energy consumption.'
There is system that is suited for all levels of amputation of the lower limbs. The advantages include a high degree of flexibility in movement and torque. Here, carbon fibre composites have made the difference.
Unitised modules for foot and ankle and for the more agile the dynamic foot, with a 30 degree turn offer added advantages.
The `mercury foot' range with a combination of carbon springs with a light alloy chassis and cosmetic attachment facilitate smooth and lively walking. The springs help energy dissipation for measured and smooth movement.
There is a sensor controlled `electric hand' that translates muscle reflexes for finger movement. Of course advancement in cosmetics offer material such as silicon and polyurethane moulds for effective camouflage.
How does the adaptive knee work? ``I prefer to carry luggage on my left shoulder,'' says Suranjana Ghosh, a management graduate from Pune who wears one since 1998.
Acclimatisation of the system took a few months and from then on it has been a smooth run till date. However, the hydraulics and pneumatics are of little help when it comes to climbing stairs. But then the knee it is not a robotic one.
A motorcycle accident made Devanathan, a jeweller of Pondicherry who look around the country for a compatible knee. He now wears an Intelligent Prosthesis Plus and is not averse to playing volleyball. And more importantly, he still rides his bike.
Endolite (Internet: www.endoliteindia.com, tel: 6601265) imports the intelligent limbs manufactured by its principal, Chas A Blatchford and Sons, of the UK, reportedly in business for over a century.
As for the cost, the company director, Brig. V.K.Bajaj, blames high import duty as the sole impediment to scale it down.
By S. Shanker
Photo: R. Ragu
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