i-manager's Journal on Instrumentation and Control Engineering (JIC)


Volume 12 Issue 2 July - December 2024

Research Paper

Enhancing Mobility with Advanced Prosthetic Ankle for Lower Limb Amputees during Bike Riding and Everyday Activities

Mohanavalli M.* , Kowshik A.**, Keerthana S.***, Vasudevan K.****, Jeevanantham S.*****
*-***** Department of Biomedical Engineering, Erode Sengunthar Engineering College, Tamil Nadu, India.
Mohanavalli, M., Kowshik, A., Keerthana, S., Vasudevan, K., and Jeevanantham, S. (2024). Enhancing Mobility with Advanced Prosthetic Ankle for Lower Limb Amputees during Bike Riding and Everyday Activities. i-manager’s Journal on Instrumentation & Control Engineering, 12(2), 1-13.

Abstract

Lower limb amputees encounter considerable challenges in executing fundamental daily tasks, especially in cycling. The lack of natural ankle mobility significantly hinders participation in physical activities that necessitate accurate foot positioning, like biking. This study proposes a groundbreaking system aimed at enhancing the functionality of ankle prosthetics specifically for cycling. This system incorporates cutting-edge technologies, including a gyroscope sensor and RF communication modules, which facilitate real-time, adaptive control of the prosthetic ankle's movements, emulating the natural foot motion required during biking. This system features an MPU6050 gyroscope sensor that monitors the motion of the leg, a servo motor that actuates the prosthetic ankle, and 433 MHz RF transmitter and receiver modules for wireless communication between the sensor and the motor. The gyroscope sensor captures instantaneous changes in the orientation of the residual limb, transmitting this data wirelessly to the servo motor, which adjusts the ankle's position, allowing for precise control over dorsiflexion (lifting the foot upwards) and plantar flexion (pointing the foot downwards), essential movements for cycling, walking, and other lower limb activities. Furthermore, a custom- designed 3D bio-printed prosthetic ankle encases the servo motor, ensuring a natural fit for the amputee while providing a lightweight and durable structure capable of enduring the demands of cycling. The servo motor integrated into the prosthetic ankle enables smooth and responsive movement, facilitating a more natural and fluid pedaling experience. This system not only restores functionality but also improves comfort and stability, thereby enhancing overall mobility and promoting inclusivity in recreational pursuits. This system significantly elevates their quality of life. Its modular architecture facilitates future modifications for various mobility needs.

Research Paper

Therapeutic Device for Relieving Symptoms Induced by Knee Osteoarthritis

Mohammed Sahil S.* , Atheena Milagi Pandian S.**, Rashika Murugan***, Sudherson M.****
*-**** Atheenapandian Organization, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.
Sahil, S. M., Pandian, S. A. M., Murugan, R., and Sudherson, M. (2024). Therapeutic Device for Relieving Symptoms Induced by Knee Osteoarthritis. i-manager’s Journal on Instrumentation & Control Engineering, 12(2), 14-19.

Abstract

Knee Osteoarthritis (KOA) symptoms have a significant impact on the senior population's quality of life. Low-level laser therapy, heat therapy, and massage therapy are commonly utilized as standalone therapies for joint diseases. However, there have been very few instances of combining these therapies into an integrated device for KOA. The goal of this study is to create a novel hybrid therapeutic device that can suit a variety of knee rehabilitation needs. This hybrid treatment equipment, which combines low-level laser therapy, heat therapy, and local massage therapy, can successfully relieve KOA patients' clinical symptoms. The Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) scores were gathered and examined after each period. Low-level laser, heating, and massage therapy significantly reduced WOMAC scores for pain, stiffness, function, and total WOMAC after two treatments (p < 0.05). The score climbed somewhat after the post-treatment period, but it remained lower than the baseline, indicating that the treatment outcome could endure for a long time. As a result, This CUHK-OA-M2 gadget, as an integrated multi-functional hybrid therapeutic device, has therapeutic value for treating osteoarthritis symptoms in the knee joints of older patients.

Research Paper

A Vibrating Ingestible Bio-Electronic Stimulator Modulates Gastric Stretch Receptors for Illusory Satiety

Atheena Milagi Pandian S.* , Mohammed Sahil S.**, Rashika Murugan***, Sudherson M.****
*-**** Atheenapandian Organization, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.
Pandian, S. A. M., Sahil, S. M., Murugan, R., and Sudherson, M. (2024). A Vibrating Ingestible Bio-Electronic Stimulator Modulates Gastric Stretch Receptors for Illusory Satiety. i-manager’s Journal on Instrumentation & Control Engineering, 12(2), 20-25.

Abstract

It is challenging for obese individuals to effectively manage their condition, as weight-loss methods require significant physical effort, lifestyle changes, and a high level of patient commitment. Gastric phase regulation and satiety are influenced by the activation of volume-dependent vagal signaling through gastromechanical receptors, which also monitor gas formation in the body. This method for stimulating the luminal cell membrane precisely activates these receptors, inducing stretch responses within the stomach and triggering a vagal reflex equivalent to mechanical distension. This study, the Buzzing Ingestible Bio-Electronic Stimulator (VIBES) pill, is an easily ingestible device that activates the body's sensors and stimulates mucosal receptors using gentle vibrations. This process promotes the production of serotonin and induces hormonal responses that mimic a satiated metabolic state. This study evaluated the effectiveness of VIBES using 109 hog meals, which resulted in significant therapeutic outcomes, including a ~40% reduction in dietary intake (P < 0.0001) and reduced weight gain (P < 0.05) compared to untreated control animals. Mechanoreceptor biology offers promising opportunities to improve dietary management for individuals with metabolic and dietary challenges.

Review Paper

Advancements and Challenges in Automatic Milking Systems: A Comprehensive Review

Yamunarani T.* , Bharathkumar R.**, Jeevitha V.***, Jagadeesh S.****
*-**** Department of Biomedical Engineering, K S R Institute for Engineering and Technology, Tiruchengode, Tamil Nadu, India.
Yamunarani, T., Bharathkumar, R., Jeevitha, V., and Jagadeesh, S. (2024). Advancements and Challenges in Automatic Milking Systems: A Comprehensive Review. i-manager’s Journal on Instrumentation & Control Engineering, 12(2), 26-32.

Abstract

Automatic Milking Systems (AMS) have revolutionized dairy farming by automating the milking process, improving efficiency, reducing labor, and enhancing farm management. AMS technology, integrated with sensors and machine learning algorithms, enables real-time monitoring of cow health and productivity, optimizing the milking process. This study explores advancements in AMS, focusing on key technological components such as robotic milking, sensor systems, and predictive data analytics. Studies demonstrate that AMS improves labor efficiency, cow welfare, and overall farm profitability. However, the adoption of AMS is challenged by high initial investment costs, the need for cow adaptation, and technological learning curves for farmers. Future advancements in sensor technology, data processing, and machine learning will enhance AMS's reliability and accessibility, particularly for small-scale farmers. This study highlights AMS's potential to contribute to sustainable and humane dairy farming practices while addressing current limitations and identifying opportunities for future research.

Review Paper

Design of an Adaptive Portable Oxygen Concentrator with Optimized Battery Efficiency and Environmental Sensitivity

Vasanth T.* , Ramya R.**, Mageswari T.***, Charumathi C.****
*-**** Department of Biomedical Engineering, Mahendra College of Engineering, Salem, Tamil Nadu, India.
Vasanth, T., Ramya, R. Mageswari, T., and Charumathi, C. (2024). Design of an Adaptive Portable Oxygen Concentrator with Optimized Battery Efficiency and Environmental Sensitivity. i-manager’s Journal on Instrumentation & Control Engineering, 12(2), 33-37.

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic, which first emerged in Wuhan province, China, in 2019, resulted in an unprecedented global demand for medical oxygen. In India, the need for oxygen surged dramatically in 2020 as COVID-19 cases escalated. To this sudden demand, various solutions were implemented, including the installation of oxygen generators in hospitals, the transportation of medical and industrial liquid oxygen, and the use of oxygen cylinders and concentrators. Unlike cylinders that require refilling, oxygen concentrators can provide a continuous supply of medical-grade oxygen, given that there is a reliable power source. They offer significant benefits for patients in the early stages of illness or following COVID-19 treatment, as they can be used in various locations. This paper aims to examine oxygen concentrators that utilize the Pressure Swing Adsorption (PSA) method for oxygen separation. Furthermore, this paper reviews developments in techniques for oxygen concentration to inform readers. This study seeks to enhance the availability of oxygen concentrators to meet local demand during emergencies.