Battery-powered leg that simulates ankle and tiny robot inspired by earthworms among inventions by young Hong Kong engineers vying for national award
Work of students at the Chinese University of Hong Kong could offer major improvements to quality of life for suitable patients
An artificial leg which mimics the action of a natural limb is one of two innovations from local engineering students that will represent Hong Kong at an awards event against competition from across the country in November.
The leg, the work of two youngsters at the Chinese University of Hong Kong, could offer major improvements to quality of life for suitable patients, and has already scooped several local honours.
It employs a biomimetic design and electrical support to simulate the thrust of a real ankle.
The device will go up against inventions by students nationwide at the Challenge Cup in Shanghai.
Twenty-year-old Liu Yuanfu, who had a below-the-knee amputation of his right leg at the age of six, said the limb had helped him walk more easily by giving him supporting power from the heel.
“The traditional prosthesis I used had a fixed ankle and provided no extra power,” Liu said. “So I needed more strength to walk and couldn’t put my feet flat on the floor when sitting.”
