Innovative Control Algorithms Enhance Robotic Knee Prostheses for Broader Use

Recent advancements in robotic knee prosthesis technology demonstrate promising potential to benefit a wider range of amputees, including those with varying mobility levels. Researchers at the University of Michigan have showcased a new control strategy that significantly improves the performance of powered prosthetic legs.

The study focused on the Össur Power Knee, a well-known robotic prosthesis, which was integrated with a novel control algorithm developed by the robotics team. The results indicated notable improvements in gait symmetry, reduced risk of trips and falls, and decreased strain on the non-amputated limb, contributing to enhanced safety and comfort for users. Participants experienced benefits even with minimal training—just two sessions—highlighting the algorithm’s intuitiveness.

This control approach, inspired by extensive datasets of human movement, allows the prosthetic to adapt in real-time to the user’s motions, providing more natural and synchronized leg behavior. Contrasted with traditional systems that rely on recognizing specific user actions, this dynamic method offers more fluid assistance during daily activities such as standing, sitting, and walking.

The study's relevance extends to everyday activities, including climbing stairs, walking on uneven terrain, and long-distance walking, where powered assistance can prevent overuse injuries and improve mobility. For users who require additional support, like canes, the powered knee demonstrated substantial aid. Interestingly, more mobile participants also showed improvements, such as higher toe clearance and less hip effort, which could translate to reduced back pain and longer endurance.

While current robotic knees are often not covered by insurance and are less used in clinical settings, evidence from this research supports their benefits over passive models. The team intends to expand testing to include stairs and ramps and hopes that their control algorithm will eventually be incorporated into commercial devices.

The findings mark a significant step toward making powered prosthetics more accessible and effective, bringing the technology closer to everyday use and enhancing the quality of life for amputees.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-10-robotic-knee-prosthesis-advanced-algorithm.html