The optimal design of human lower limb prostheses, in particular of knee devices, is fundamental in order to restore the lost functionality and aesthetic aspect of the amputee’s locomotion. Among all knee devices, the four-bar linkage is still the most widespread mechanism, since, despite its simplicity, it allows the prosthesis to be sufficiently stable and, at the same time, to replicate the ...

In this paper, we present a novel web-based computer-aided modeling and manufacturing software tool for spherical mechanisms. Our purpose is to facilitate the analysis, dynamic simulation, and manufacture of one degree of freedom spherical four-bar mechanisms. First, a brief review of some of the current computer-aided design software for spherical four-bar mechanisms is presented. These softwa...

This paper presents a methodology for constructing spherical four-bar mechanisms with an emphasis on utilizing simpler machining processes and part geometries. By building each link out of easily created pieces instead of a single complex shape, a mechanism can be quickly prototyped and tested. The paper discusses the benefits and some of the issues that need to be addressed by this approach. S...