ORCID
https://orcid.org/0009-0004-4026-952X
Year
2025
Season
Fall
Paper Type
Master's Thesis
College
College of Computing, Engineering & Construction
Degree Name
Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering (MSME)
Department
Engineering
NACO controlled Corporate Body
University of North Florida. School of Engineering
Committee Chairperson
Dr. Grant Bevill
Second Advisor
Dr. Juan Aceros
Third Advisor
Dr. Guilherme Cesar
Department Chair
Dr. Alan Harris
College Dean
Dr. William Klostermeyer
Abstract
This thesis focuses on the development of a low-cost, mobile device system designed to evaluate lower limb dexterity, a crucial aspect of balance and mobility that is essential for daily activities and rehabilitation. The primary objective of this work was to develop a portable device with integrated electronics, capable of assessing Center of Pressure and comparing the results to a gold standard assessment methodology. The gold standard employed for this purpose was a research grade Bertec Force Plate (FP4550).
Results were analyzed using various data visualization techniques, including scatter plots and SPM analysis, the research highlights patterns in movements, revealing similarities and little differences between the two devices. The low p-value is indicative of the little similarities. These variations may result from factors such as sampling rates, measurement techniques, and the mechanical properties of 3D-printed components, and the high-frequency main spring.
The new proposed dexterity design has shown reasonably correlated results compared with. However, while the findings indicate promising applications for the dexterity device in clinical practice, the study also acknowledges limitations related to potential biases and environmental factors that could influence the interpretation of results, which can be removed by further improving the signal processing procedure.
By comparing the performance of the novel dexterity device with the Bertec force plate, this work establishes a foundational understanding that may inform the design of more reliable accessible tools for assessing lower limb dexterity in both clinical and home settings.
Suggested Citation
Masoudi, Mohammad Hadi, "Development of a low-cost portable dexterity assessment system" (2025). UNF Graduate Theses and Dissertations. 1369.
https://digitalcommons.unf.edu/etd/1369
Included in
Biomechanical Engineering Commons, Biomedical Devices and Instrumentation Commons, Electro-Mechanical Systems Commons