Abstract: A method is described for obtaining quantitative data on the response of individual components of a human knee to external stresses which comprises having an anthropomorphic knee device which includes individual component means for simulating at least one principal component of the knee and load determining means which after calibration are used to determine the effect on the equivalent component in a human knee joint resulting from that external stress. Also described in an anthropomorphic leg device for performing the method in which cables represent the principal components of the knee and are operably connected to load cells so that the stresses imparted to each of the principal components by a traumatic impact can be individually measured and assessed. Measurements with this invention are found to correlate closely to the stresses in the respective components, such as ligaments and muscle groups, of the human knee.

Abstract: A knee guard and brace with a single, laterally-worn side member having elongated thigh and calf support pads each of which is connected by a floating joint to one of two ribs. The ends of these ribs remote from the floating joints are interconnected by a centrally located mechanical joint structure. The floating joint connections between the elongated pads and the ribs are disposed generally in the middle of the pads and are sufficiently flexible to allow each pad to fit snugly, along its entire length, against a wearer's leg when the knee guard and brace is strapped to it. This closeness of fit is achieved without elaborate custom-fitting. Once the knee guard and brace is secured to a wearer's leg, movement of the section of each pad proximate the knee joint inwardly and away from the ribs can be prevented by adjusting the position of spacers rotatably attached to the ribs.

Abstract: A stabilizer to support and stabilize the knee joint of the wearer having a thigh shell and calf shell formed of high impact resistant plastic. The shells are removably mountable adjacent to the knee and conform to the contours of the leg, supporting the knee joint on both sides. The shells are joined together at their lateral and medial sides by polycentric selectable arc hinge assemblies to provide support and permit controlled natural flexion and extension of the joint. Each hinge assembly has a pair of parallel links connecting corresponding sides of the shells and rotatable about pivot pins which form the points of attachment. Meshing hinge gears positioned between the links rotate with their respective shells about the pivot pins to integrate the independent rotational movement of the shells about their pivot pin axes. A pinion stop gear meshes with and is selectably rotatable about the periphery of each hinge gear.