Importance

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Abstract

An apparatus for evaluation of a limb of a test subject. The apparatus generally includes a pedal or grip to secure the distal end of the limb to the apparatus and a seat to secure the proximal end of the limb to the apparatus. A motor and transmission assembly is coupled to the pedal or grip to provide a controlled load to the distal end of the limb. The apparatus also includes a measurement and control system to determine the load to be applied, and to measure and compute the force on each joint of the limb while the controlled load is applied to the limb. The measurement and control system includes a force sensor, coupled to the pedal, the force sensor being capable of resolving force in at least two directions; a position sensor, coupled to the pedal; and a computer with control software, coupled to the force sensor and the motor, the computer including means for controlling the force exerted on the pedal or grip by the limb of the test subject and the force exerted on the pedal or grip by the motor and transmission.

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First Claim