Prosthetic Joint

Working with Biedermann Motech, a German manufacturer of prosthetic components, LORD developed a device that improves the mobility of above-the-knee leg amputees. The Prolite™ Smart Magnetix™ Above-the-Knee (AK) Prosthetic, increases gait balance, stability and energy efficiency using controllable MR technology adapted from LORD Motion Master Ride Management System truck seat damper.

The Value LORD MR Provides

Highly precise and nearly instantaneous control. The responsiveness of MR fluid is under 10 milliseconds, and its resistive force can be almost infinitely varied over a range. This controlled variability in force makes this product possible.

Velocity-independent force. LORD MR technology can accurately emulate natural movement and resistance even in very slow movements.

Superior dependability and cost to active-damper devices. Unlike devices using active dampers, LORD MR technology does not add potentially destabilizing force to the system; it merely provides resistive force. Further, it provides natural performance at less cost than active-damper devices.

LORD MR Technology at Work

Click on the highlighted text to view AVI video clips demonstrating the enhanced performance of Motech’s knee system in 5 different situations: walking on level ground (1.9 MB), walking down an incline (5.2 MB), descending stairs (1.5 MB), lifting a load and walking with it (3.3 MB) and bicycling (1.4 MB).

Learn more about AK prosthesis from Biedermann Motech’s Web site.