Improving Device Testing Efficiency in Prosthetic Research: The Impact of an Automated Robustness Testing Protocol.

Resource constraints are common in prosthetic device research, and research and development inevitably occurs simultaneously. Managing the balance between device upgrades, repairs, and ensuring reliability for participant use present a continuous challenge. This paper introduces an automated robustness testing protocol designed to assess device performance and reliability. The protocol was designed to validate software updates, identify issues, and ensure consistency across prototypes and repairs. We used this method to test new design and software iterations to an active leg system. The protocol was used to successfully identify and address potential issues before participant sessions including deviations in sensors, disconnecting wires, and software bugs. It was also used to demonstrate consistency in mechanical responses across multiple prototypes of the active leg system. Our results show that this method has the capability to identify potential issues before participant sessions, ensuring smoother research workflows and minimizing disruptions during participant use.