ENHANCING MOBILITY WITH ADVANCED PROSTHETIC ANKLE FOR LOWER LIMB AMPUTEES DURING BIKE RIDING AND EVERYDAY ACTIVITIES.

Lower limb amputees encounter considerable challenges in executing fundamental daily tasks, especially in cycling. The lack of natural ankle mobility significantly hinders participation in physical activities that necessitate accurate foot positioning, like biking. This study proposes a groundbreaking system aimed at enhancing the functionality of ankle prosthetics specifically for cycling. This system incorporates cutting-edge technologies, including a gyroscope sensor and RF communication modules, which facilitate real-time, adaptive control of the prosthetic ankle's movements, emulating the natural foot motion required during biking. This system features an MPU6050 gyroscope sensor that monitors the motion of the leg, a servo motor that actuates the prosthetic ankle, and 433 MHz RF transmitter and receiver modules for wireless communication between the sensor and the motor. The gyroscope sensor captures instantaneous changes in the orientation of the residual limb, transmitting this data wirelessly to the servo motor, which adjusts the ankle's position, allowing for precise control over dorsiflexion (lifting the foot upwards) and plantar flexion (pointing the foot downwards), essential movements for cycling, walking, and other lower limb activities. Furthermore, a customdesigned 3D bio-printed prosthetic ankle encases the servo motor, ensuring a natural fit for the amputee while providing a lightweight and durable structure capable of enduring the demands of cycling. The servo motor integrated into the prosthetic ankle enables smooth and responsive movement, facilitating a more natural and fluid pedaling experience. This system not only restores functionality but also improves comfort and stability, thereby enhancing overall mobility and promoting inclusivity in recreational pursuits. This system significantly elevates their quality of life. Its modular architecture facilitates future modifications for various mobility needs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]