2026 Undergraduate Research Showcase

Sensor Evaluation for Infant Biomechanics: Force Sensitive Resistors vs. Pressure Sensors in a Pavlik Harness

Document Type

Student Presentation

Presentation Date

4-24-2026

Faculty Sponsor

Dr. Erin Mannen and Dr. Benjamin Johnson

Abstract

Developmental dysplasia of the hip affects approximately 1 in 100 infants and is commonly treated using a Pavlik harness, which holds the hips in a corrective position during early growth. However, treatment fails in about 20% of cases, and clinicians currently cannot measure how forces generated by infant movement or wear time influence treatment success. To address this gap, I designed and evaluated custom force sensors capable of measuring the forces applied through the harness during infant motion. I calibrated the sensors using controlled compression testing and compared electronic output to known mechanical loads to determine consistency and accuracy.

The redesigned sensors showed reliable responses across multiple devices and improved measurement performance compared to an existing commercial sensor, allowing forces within the expected infant kicking range to be measured. This validated sensing system creates a way to study how real treatment conditions affect outcomes. In the future, this technology can help researchers connect harness use to treatment success and guide clinicians toward more effective care for infants undergoing hip correction therapy.

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