Development and Biomechanical Evaluation of a Modular Knee Prosthesis: From Conceptual V1 Design to an Improved V3 Model

This study investigates the functional capabilities and accessibility limitations of current knee prostheses while developing and evaluating a three-stage prosthetic system (V1-V3). The primary objective is to design a cost-effective knee prosthesis featuring anatomically compatible motion, high kinematic accuracy, and a modular architecture. The methodology integrates a technical review of commercial prostheses, CAD modeling in SolidWorks, kinematic evaluation through Motion Simulation, and experimental testing of the V2 prototype. The results demonstrate the structural limitations of the initial V1 design, the complete assembly and improved functional performance of the V2 prototype, and the advanced mechanical behavior achieved in the final V3 concept. The V3 model provides an extended range of motion, reduced mass and lowered center of gravity, smoother dynamic response, and compatibility with a fully modular foot-ankle-knee configuration. Overall, the findings indicate that the V3 design represents a promising engineering solution that brings the system closer to clinical applicability and establishes a foundation for the development of a fully modular lower-limb prosthetic platform.