Mathematical Modelling to Support the Design and Development of Upper Limb Prostheses - Healthcare technologies - Assistive Technology, Rehabilitation

The project aims to use mathematical modelling and University of Warwick Gait Laboratory experiments to support the design and development of a functional upper limb prosthesis. This will be performed in collaboration between Dr Mike Chappell (SoE) and Dr Joe Hardwicke (Consultant Plastic Surgeon, UHCW, & WMS) with additional input and collaboration with Dr Helge Wurdemann of UCL, the latter focussing on the design, 3D prototyping and haptic sensory feedback systems for the prosthetic device. The project also has the full support of UHCW with potential Case funding offered by them to support the project. The project will involve the development of a novel, fine scale mathematical model of the hand (including musculature and soft tissue) and hand kinematics and dynamics. This model will be supported and parameterised using motion capture data collected in the UoW Gait Laboratory within the SoE and also potentially within the Gait Laboratory that is currently being established at UHCW that is due to be in operation by the end of 2017. The project will analyse the types of hand grip that are used in everyday activities (33 are currently described in the literature) to focus on those most commonly used in order to simplify the biomechanics and design of the prosthesis. The model and experimental data collected will support the design of the physical prosthesis with input at this stage of the project provided through the collaboration with UCL. This type of biomechanical hand study has not been done to date.