Project Objectives
High Priority Objectives
Accurately model the geometry and motion of human leg.
Soft braces cannot collapse into the joint structure of cycle tester.
Cycle tester must be robust enough to withstand multiple tests of 1,000,000 cycles each test.
Second Priority Objectives
Cycle tester must allow for varying ranges of motion to test: 0-135, 0-90 and 0-45 degrees.
Cycles should be monitored and counted.
Cycle tester should measure applicable torque or force applied to joint by the brace so a change can be noted if and when the brace fails during the test.
Other Constraints and Issues
Overall budget is $2500
WOW Design Solution
Cycle tester could feature a modular design so that it can be adapted for other joint architectures in the human body.
Additional forces could be applied to simulate slight impact testing over the course of a fatigue test.
Risk Reduction Strategy
Parallel design will utilized to limit the risks with the design phase.
Accurate modeling and analysis in order to predict behavior before it occurs.
Clear documentation through website and computer analysis.
Intermediate Milestones
Design direction decided upon. What type of motion will the KCT utilize to perform the fatigue tests?
Sensing methods finalized. How will the forces/torques be measured in the system to that the time of failure for a brace can be identified.
Design finalized. Final design complete and ready to be constructed.
Preliminary testing. Testing of braces to see if a failure can be created and accurately logged.