39475 - Eletronic Bioengineering Applied To Prosthesis

Learning outcomes

At the end of the module, the student has the basic knowledge of the physical principles and technologies used in electronic devices in the prosthetic world: sensors, microprocessor architectures, knowledge for data processing and filtering. The student will have knowledge of batteries, actuators, transducers present in prosthetic systems and the basics of communication protocols between PC and Prosthesis. The student acquires the basic knowledge of a closed-loop and open-loop control system and learns to create simple control algorithms by implementing them on microprocessor systems.

Course contents

THEORY

Recall of mathematical physics and electrical engineering

Numbering systems, constant and variable quantities over time
Fourier series development
Resistance, resistivity, series, parallel, color code
Capacitance, parallel, series
Inductance, series, parallel
Real and ideal components

Recall of electronics

Diodes, LEDs, BJTs, MOS, Optoisolators
Amp.Op
Gain, Band, Ring, Rout, CMRR
Configuration invert. non invert. Differential
Technological aids, Design for all, ICF

Actuators:

Electric motors
Relays
Servomotors
Thermal actuators
Microcontroller

CU, RAM, FLASH, IO, ADC, DAC, PWM
Shannon theorem
Motor control and H-BRIDGE
Filters

Digital
Analog
Signal transmission

Serial and Parallel
BIT/BAUD RATE
RS232, USB, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Zig-Bee
Sensors

Force and pressure
Strain gauges
Non-strain gauges
Capacitive
Inertial
Position
Inclination
Absolute and relative angular position, encoder
Temperature: thermoresistances, thermocouples, thermistors
Notions of automatic controls and Open loop and closed loop control
Reliability of an electronic system
Batteries and accumulators
Recalls on EMG and Target Muscle ReInnervation

Prosthetics, Bionics, Robotics

Polyarticulated Prostheses and Control Techniques

Sensory Feedback

Assistive Technologies and Evaluation Systems

Fundamentals of Home Automation

LABORATORY

Electrical and resistance measurements
Tests with motors in speed and torque
Use of an oscilloscope and verification of signals
Tests with sensors (measurement of an angular position, of a pressure)
Polarization tests of a LED
Welding tests of electrical components on a small board
Use of Arduino: Flashing of a LED - LED with buttons (and – or)
Use of Arduino: Reading the value of a potentiometer or FSR - Sending data with serial LED control with PWM
Creation of a control for a myoelectric prosthesis

"The teaching participates in the didactic experimentation project of the University"

Readings/Bibliography

Lecture slides and numerous scientific publications are provided. The material is given to students during the lessons

Teaching methods

Frontal lessons with the use of video and interactive digital methods and laboratory exercises. Depending on availability, visits to external institutions/companies may be included.

"The teaching participates in the University's educational experimentation project"

Assessment methods

The exam consists of three parts:

Individual practical test
Individual written essay or individual or group project with discussion
One or two individual oral questions
Note: At the end of each lesson, quick tests will be administered to assess the student's understanding of the topics covered, which will contribute a bonus of 1 to 3 points to the final grade.

Final grade grading:

Preparation on a very limited number of topics covered in the course and analytical ability that emerges only with the instructor's assistance; essay of a sufficient level; overall correct language use → 18-22;
Preparation on a limited number of topics covered in the course and independent analysis ability only on purely executive issues; essay of a reasonable level or project development of a theoretical nature only; correct language use → 23-26;
Knowledge of a wide range of topics covered in the course, ability to independently choose critical analysis, excellent level of essay or project or development of a theoretical-practical project, mastery of specific terminology → 27-29;

Substantially comprehensive knowledge of the topics covered in the course, ability to independently choose critical analysis and connection, full mastery of specific terminology, development of a theoretical-practical project with demo and ability to argue and self-reflect → 30-30L.

Students with learning disabilities and temporary or permanent disabilities are encouraged to contact the dedicated office (https://site.unibo.it/studenti-con-disabilita-e-dsa/it/per-studenti) as soon as possible to discuss appropriate compensatory measures. The request must be submitted in advance (15 days before the exam date) to the instructor, who will evaluate the appropriateness of the measures, taking into account the learning objectives.

Teaching tools

During the course, commercial prosthetic devices and prototypes will be used. For the technological aids part, the computer and home automation aids laboratory of the INAIL Prosthetics Center will be used.

PowerPoint presentations and educational videos will be shown during the lectures. Teaching materials deemed useful for preparation and supplementary learning will be posted online on the University platforms or are available from the instructor.

Office hours

See the website of Angelo Davalli