Towards Realistic Prosthetic Gait Simulations: Enhancing the Accuracy of OpenSim Analysis by Integrating the Transfemoral Prosthesis Model

Abstract

Powered transfemoral prostheses offer the potential to improve mobility and quality of life for individuals with amputations. This study aimed to develop and validate an OpenSim model of a subject with a unilateral transfemoral amputation wearing a powered transfemoral prosthesis and to compare the model's performance with that of a model without prosthesis characteristics. We utilized experimental walking data from a single transfemoral amputee subject to demonstrate the feasibility of the model. Inverse kinematics and inverse dynamics were performed to compare the results using the encoder and current data of the knee and ankle actuators, which served as ground truth. The model with prosthesis characteristics demonstrated a closer match to the actuator data, particularly during the stance phase, suggesting that it better reflects the dynamic features of a real powered prosthesis. However, discrepancies were observed during the swing phase, highlighting the need for further refinements. This study provides valuable insights into the importance of incorporating prosthesis characteristics in biomechanical models to simulate joint behavior accurately. It has implications for the development and assessment of prosthetic devices.