Socket virtual design based on low cost hand tracking and haptic devices

Abstract

This paper concerns a research project that aims at developing an innovative platform to design lower limb prosthesis. The platform is centered on the virtual model of the amputee and is based on a computer-aided and knowledge-guided approach. In particular, the paper focuses on the module, named Socket Modeling Assistant-SMA, conceived to design the socket, the most critical component of the whole prosthesis. The underlining idea is to experiment low-cost devices, such the Leap Motion, to manipulate the 3D virtual model of the socket using hands as traditional done by the prosthetist. The goal is to make available a modeling tool that permits to replicate/emulate manual operations usually performed by the prosthetist during the traditional development process. First, we first describe the traditional socket development process; then the SMA software architecture and the guidelines used to develop the interaction algorithms (integrated within SMA) that exploit the Leap Motion and Falcon devices. Finally preliminary tests and results will be illustrated

Reconstrucción 3D para el desarrollo de prótesis de miembro inferior

“…Los autores afirman que el proceso de elaboración del socket por técnica tradicional es incómodo para el paciente, esto se deriva de la técnica de elaboración, la toma de medidas y la preparación del molde con vendas de yeso. En el caso de amputación transfemoral, el contacto manual se realiza hasta la región inguinal, ya que es necesario tocar y cubrir la superficie de la piel con vendas de yeso [20]. En consecuencia, se generan molestias en el paciente por el contacto directo con las zonas íntimas.…”

“…A partir de estos datos se puede construir un modelo 3D digital del miembro residual. En el proceso de diseño propuesto, se hace referencia a la obtención de un modelo geométrico CAD del muñón [20].…”

Low Cost 3D Scanners Along the Design of Lower Limb Prosthesis

“…Actually, it embeds a set of design rules and procedures (e.g., where and how to modify the socket shape) and makes available a set of interactive virtual tools to manipulate the socket shape according to traditional procedures ( Figure 3). Furthermore, we have developed a module that exploits hand-tracking devices (e.g., Leap Motion device [2]) in order to emulate the design operation as traditionally made by orthopedic technicians who use their hands to shape the socket. Beyond the technical challenge of creating such a complex ICT tool, the relevance of this part is mainly due to the inner connection it has with the medical application.…”

A real-time reconstructed 3D environment augmented with virtual objects rendered with correct occlusion

“…Some of the applications include: manipulation of 3D objects [13], point clouds annotation [14], [15], control of a gripper robot [16], segmentation of volumetric medical data [17], facilitating collaboration on multi-touch tables for disabled users [18], therapy sessions with serious games [19], [20], modeling of the prosthesis socket [21] and even monitoring symptoms of amnestic mild cognitive impairment (MCI) for elderly people [22].…”