Design and Manufacturing of Lower Limb Prosthetics Using Military Grade CFRP-Aluminum Alloy by Advanced Electromagnetic Forming and Joining Processes: An Affordable Prosthetic Solution for Amputees
Concise Summary: This project aims to develop an affordable, lightweight, and durable lower limb prosthetic using military-grade Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) and aluminum alloy, fabricated through advanced electromagnetic forming and joining (EMF/EMJ) processes. The goal is to provide amputees with a high-performance prosthetic solution that is cost-effective, customizable, and capable of withstanding demanding physical conditions. Key Features & Innovations: 1. Material Selection: o Military-grade CFRP for high strength-to-weight ratio, corrosion resistance, and fatigue durability. o Aluminum alloy (e.g., 6061 or 7075) for structural support, impact resistance, and ease of machining. 2. Advanced Manufacturing Techniques: o Electromagnetic Forming (EMF): High-speed, precision shaping of metal components without traditional mechanical contact, reducing material waste. o Electromagnetic Joining (EMJ): Strong, lightweight bonding of CFRP and aluminum without adhesives or welding, improving structural integrity. 3. Customizable & Ergonomic Design: o Modular components for adaptability to different amputee needs. o Biomechanically optimized for natural gait and comfort. 4. Cost-Effective Production: o Reduced machining and assembly costs due to EMF/EMJ efficiency. o Scalable manufacturing for mass production in developing countries. Expected Outcomes: • A lightweight, high-strength prosthetic limb with superior durability compared to conventional prosthetics. • Faster, cheaper production through electromagnetic processes. • Improved accessibility for amputees in low-resource settings. • Potential applications in civilian and military prosthetics, with future scalability to exoskeletons and orthotics. This project bridges the gap between advanced materials science, innovative manufacturing, and affordable medical devices, offering amputees a high-quality prosthetic solution without prohibitive costs.