Design of an Artificial Foot using Series Elastic Actuator

Investigation of natural foot behaviour shows that it’s kinetic and kinematics functions can be compared to mechanisms containing simple mechanical elements such as springs, dampers and actuators. Hence, appropriate design of this mechanism may give rise to an artificial foot that might help amputees properly. Studies show that whatever the biomechanical behavior of an artificial foot is similar to that of natural foot, where it might be utilized consuming less energy. In this study, required parameters for design of an artificial foot including spring and electromechanical actuator were examined by investigating biomechanical behavior of natural foot in walking level. Moreover, an algorithm was suggested for design of foot prosthesis and according to this algorithm, a prototype was designed and fabricated.