Prosthetic Dog Leg
Format
SOECS Senior Project Demonstration
Faculty Mentor Name
Kyle Watson
Faculty Mentor Department
Mechanical Engineering
Abstract/Artist Statement
The purpose of this project is to design and fabricate a prosthetic leg that does not require amputation to fit a group member’s dog. The dog, Pogo, was born with a deformed front leg, caused by leg development against the side of the womb. The importance of this project is driven by a desire to improve Pogo’s quality of life. Over time, Pogo’s deformity will lead to joint damage and strained muscles without the aid of a prosthetic limb. To fit a traditional prosthetic, partial amputation would be required. By amputating the limb, a better base of attachment is created. However, the costs of amputation may not be economical for every family. Amputation costs range from $2-3000, and a traditional prosthetic ranges from $600-1500. Pogo’s prosthetic limb is designed to meet a set of objectives, including: safe and secure attachment, daily use not requiring major adjustment, comfort and support for running, jumping, walking, and laying down, and costing less than a traditional prosthetic requiring amputation. To meet the objectives, a prosthetic limb was created using 3D printing and incorporating a spring/damper system to provide force damping and comfort. The successful completion of the stated objectives depends on Pogo’s adaptation and comfort in using the prosthetic and whether the prosthetic met strength and cost requirements. To date, Pogo has made progress walking and running using the full assembly. Pogo does not bite or attempt to remove the leg attachment component, indicating comfort. However, full rehabilitation of leg strength and ability to wear the prosthetic for extended use remains to be seen as Pogo’s leg continues to build strength. The prosthetic costs less than $100 to produce and meets all durability requirements.
Location
School of Engineering & Computer Science
Start Date
6-5-2017 2:30 PM
End Date
6-5-2017 4:00 PM
Prosthetic Dog Leg
School of Engineering & Computer Science
The purpose of this project is to design and fabricate a prosthetic leg that does not require amputation to fit a group member’s dog. The dog, Pogo, was born with a deformed front leg, caused by leg development against the side of the womb. The importance of this project is driven by a desire to improve Pogo’s quality of life. Over time, Pogo’s deformity will lead to joint damage and strained muscles without the aid of a prosthetic limb. To fit a traditional prosthetic, partial amputation would be required. By amputating the limb, a better base of attachment is created. However, the costs of amputation may not be economical for every family. Amputation costs range from $2-3000, and a traditional prosthetic ranges from $600-1500. Pogo’s prosthetic limb is designed to meet a set of objectives, including: safe and secure attachment, daily use not requiring major adjustment, comfort and support for running, jumping, walking, and laying down, and costing less than a traditional prosthetic requiring amputation. To meet the objectives, a prosthetic limb was created using 3D printing and incorporating a spring/damper system to provide force damping and comfort. The successful completion of the stated objectives depends on Pogo’s adaptation and comfort in using the prosthetic and whether the prosthetic met strength and cost requirements. To date, Pogo has made progress walking and running using the full assembly. Pogo does not bite or attempt to remove the leg attachment component, indicating comfort. However, full rehabilitation of leg strength and ability to wear the prosthetic for extended use remains to be seen as Pogo’s leg continues to build strength. The prosthetic costs less than $100 to produce and meets all durability requirements.