Methods For Collecting Myoelectric Signals From Individuals With Lower Limb Amputations

Technological advancements in lower limb prostheses have resulted in actuated motors in both knees and ankles. Currently, these components are controlled by information measured from various electromechanical sensors attached to the prosthesis. Our aim is to enhance the control information provided to powered prosthetic components by including input from the user via interpreted myoelectric signals (MESs). To extract useful control information, it is imperative that consistent, high-quality MESs be collected from patients each time they don the socket. In this work, we present approaches to maintaining consistent electrode placements on individuals with transfemoral and transtibial amputations during static non-weight-bearing conditions and dynamic weight-bearing activities. Our results show that a variety of methods, similar to those used in upper limb fittings, may be used to collect high-quality MESs during static non-weight-bearing conditions. MES collection during dynamic weight-bearing activities is more challenging. The type, size, shape, and placement of electrodes must be carefully chosen to maintain contact with the skin without compromising comfort during weight-bearing activity.