THE PROBLEM

Over 600,000 ACL injuries are reported globally every year, according to the Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, and each injury can cost between $20,000 and $30,000 to surgically repair. Since the risk of a future ACL injury is fifteen times greater once an individual has undergone an ACL surgery, the expenses can get quite high for the average American; especially those without health insurance.

THE SOLUTION

Kneed Technologies expects to reduce the number of re-injuries by designing a product that would monitor the knee and help make the user more aware of their activity and avoid putting abnormal strains on their knee. Since it is difficult for physical therapists to have an accurate measurement of their users’ activities throughout the day, this product will allow the therapist to access information of their patient’s progress and exercises outside of their sessions. The expected consumer market for this product will include physicians, physical therapists, athletes in high school and college, and possibly other knee brace companies. ​

PROTOTYPE DESIGN PROCESS

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The initial prototype consisted of a strain gauge taped to a neoprene knee sleeve, with an Arduino UNO board outputting change in voltage as a function of displacement. Since then, our prototype has been modified to fit a compact board that has a connector for a lithium polymer battery which can be charged over USB connection. Our product now encompasses a sleek design and effective knee monitoring technology.