A hip simulator hardware for designing and testing knee prosthesis

In this study, a hip simulator mechanism have been presented for designing and testing knee prosthesis. The main reason to design this simulator mechanism is to generate the periodic move of above knee activity by using a basic control unit and electromechanic hardware. This platform will help us to assess the design outcomes of the prosthesis for specifically above knee amputees. The mechanic basis of this simulator has been obtained from the modified simple card drill machine. The system includes two alternative current motors which provide two dimensional movements for gait simulation, a rotary encoder and a pulse counter for each motor control unit, a reductor used for decreasing the speed of the electrical motor to appropriate levels, and drivers for controlling the motors. The system is completed by a software for real-time control. Thus, computer controlled above knee activity can be produced for assembled foot or knee prostheses.