Yogyakarta, April 22, 2025 — A team of lecturers from the Department of Mechanical Engineering, Vocational College, Universitas Gadjah Mada (DTM SV UGM) is conducting a research project to design a simple, affordable, and easy-to-manufacture ankle prosthesis. The research takes place at the Design Laboratory of DTM SV UGM from April 22 to October 31, 2025.
The research team consists of Dr. Ir. Handoko, S.T., M.T., Dr. Ir. Lilik Dwi Setyana, S.T., M.T., Ir. Budi Basuki, S.T., M.Eng., Dr. Ir. Setyawan Bekti Wibowo, S.T., M.Eng., and Dr. Ir. Bambang Hari Priambodo, S.T., M.Eng., all from DTM SV UGM. The project also involves Dr. Yani Kurniawan, S.T., M.T. from Universitas Pancasila, Jakarta, and Rizky Kurniawan, an undergraduate student of the Mechanical Design Technology Program at DTM SV UGM.
The research arises from the urgent need for affordable prosthetic devices in Indonesia. Most lower-limb disability cases occur among people from low-income and productive-age groups. Accessible prosthetics are essential to help them regain mobility and economic independence. National data shows that 22.97 million Indonesians (about 8.5% of the total population) live with disabilities, and around 50% use mobility aids.
Currently, most prosthetic products available in Indonesia are imported and expensive, with an average lifespan of only 3.5 years. This limitation motivates the DTM SV UGM research team to design prosthetics tailored to the needs, body dimensions, and daily activities of Indonesian users.
The research process begins with a study of suitable prosthetic models and dimensions based on Indonesian anthropometric data. Next, the team conducts dynamic load (gait load) analysis to identify the forces applied to the prosthesis during walking. The modeling and simulation process utilizes Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and Computer-Aided Engineering (CAE) software to achieve an optimal, strong, and efficient design.
This research aligns with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-Being), Goal 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), and Goal 10 (Reduced Inequalities), by promoting inclusive, affordable, and socially impactful engineering innovation.