Research at the Vienna University Clinic into the occurrence of a medical condition known as 'bow legs', or axis misalignment, is set to get a boost from a unique Festo invention - the fluidic muscle.
Believed to simulate human muscle movement more closely than any other mechanical device, the pneumatic actuator will help determine the optimum parameters for the operative correction of axis misalignment, which causes excessive wear of the joints if untreated. "The fluidic muscle offers a major advantage compared to the hydraulic cylinders originally used in our test rig, since its meshed structure permits the generation of dynamic force components," explains senior physician, Dr Gobert Skrbensky. "What is more, contraction is totally homogenous. If the muscle is shortened by means of compressed air, its behaviour very much resembles that of a biological muscle. It enables us to simulate muscular power increasingly more realistically."
The fluidic muscle has been introduced as a stand-in for actual musculature in studying the movement sequences of the human knee. The test rig used to determine the success of attempted corrective measures allows anatomical models to carry out changes in axis positions and to determine their effect on the distribution of force in the knee. "By allowing us to measure forces occurring during joint movement, this rig is tremendously important in the development of implants such as hip and knee joints, plates screws and nails," Dr Skrbensky points out. "For these values to be usable, it is crucial for movement sequences to be simulated as realistically as possible." A major contribution is made here by the fluidic muscle in the form of a force generator, instead of a biological muscle. The Viennese researchers believe they have found the right actuator for their simulation set up.
It’s full steam ahead for SKF’s sustainable leak detection solution SKF South Africa
Pneumatic systems & components
One of SKF’s key customers based in Cape Town, which depends on steam systems for its production processes, was facing costly challenges related to high energy consumption and excessive maintenance hours. SKF recommended the TKSU 10 ultrasonic leak detector as a more streamlined, user-friendly alternative.
Read more...Dynamic compressor control system with energy savings
Pneumatic systems & components
: CompAir has launched Ecoplant, a dynamic, compressed air management solution that adjusts compressor parameters in real time, offering up to 30 per cent reductions in energy costs and CO2 emissions.
Read more...Is your compressed air system sustainable? Artic Driers International
Pneumatic systems & components
We are all aware that compressed air is an expensive source of motive power, but do we actually know what the cost is?
Read more...Redefining motion control with Festo’s vision for seamless and intelligent automation Festo
Editor's Choice Electrical switching & drive systems & components
The quest for precision, flexibility and efficiency continues to shape the future of industrial automation, and Festo, as a long-standing leader in automation technology, stands firmly at the forefront of this movement, driving innovation and setting the benchmark for excellence.
Read more...It’s full steam ahead for SKF’s sustainable leak detection solution SKF South Africa
Pneumatic systems & components
One of SKF’s key customers based in Cape Town, which depends on steam systems for its production processes, was facing costly challenges related to high energy consumption and excessive maintenance hours. SKF recommended the TKSU 10 ultrasonic leak detector as a more streamlined, user-friendly alternative.
Read more...Festo 100th Anniversary: Celebrating a century-long legacy of innovation and commitment Festo
News & events
Festo has officially begun celebrating 100 years of groundbreaking technology, commitment and enduring partnerships. To kick off this historic milestone celebration, their Customer Innovation Day and ThankYou Party series brought together customers, partners and employees to reflect on their journey and look ahead to an exciting future.
Read more...A guide for compressed air dryer selection Artic Driers International
Pneumatic systems & components
Clean and dry compressed air is essential in today’s modern operating environment. Without an air dryer and filter bank in line, the downtime created by condensate can be substantial. However, there are issues about air dryer selection and the impact of geographic location that need careful consideration prior to placing an order.
Read more...Easy to use energy management tool for compressed air Comtest
Pneumatic systems & components
For the efficient management of plant operations, the critical considerations include product quality, safety, downtime, and energy use. A production plant in Germany has set a greenhouse gas emissions reduction goal of 25% by 2030, and turned to the Plant Energy manager to help deliver that target.
Read more...Festo celebrates its centenary Festo
News & events
Creating added customer value through innovation has been the driving force behind the family-owned company from the beginning and remains the key to Festo’s success today. The company’s anniversary is being celebrated with employees, customers and partners worldwide throughout the year.
While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein, the publisher and its agents cannot be held responsible for any errors contained, or any loss incurred as a result. Articles published do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers. The editor reserves the right to alter or cut copy. Articles submitted are deemed to have been cleared for publication. Advertisements and company contact details are published as provided by the advertiser. Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd cannot be held responsible for the accuracy or veracity of supplied material.
printer friendly version