Rīga Technical University

Instituts of Mechanics

Professors group of the “Prosthetic Mechanics”

Professional Study Program“Bionics and Prosthetics”

Self-rating Report

Riga-2001

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. OBJECTIVES AND TASKS 2

2. I SELF-EVALUATION REPORT 3. 5

4. CONTENT AND ORGANISATION OF THE STUDY PROGRAMME 64.1. INTRODUCTORY INFORMATION 61.2. SUMMARY (19.1) AND TRAINING DURATION (19.3) IN THE STUDY

PROGRAMME “BIONICS AND PROSTHETICS”12

1.3. PROPORTION OF THE BASIC AND OPTIONAL SUBJECTS (19.4) 161.4. COMPARISON WITH FOREIGN PROGRAMMES AND

CONCLUSIONS16

1.5. DURATION OF THE MASTER PROJECT (19.5) 191.6. CONCLUSIONS OF THE COMPARISON 191.7. PERSPECTIVES OF THE STUDY PROGRAMME FROM THE ASPECT

OF INTERESTS OF LATVIA19

1.8. ADVERTISING AND INFORMATION ON STUDY POSSIBILITIES 20

5. TEACHING AND EVALUATION OF KNOWLEDGE 212.1. INFORMATION ABOUT COOPERATION OF THE STRUCTURAL

UNITS IN IMPLEMENTATION OF THE STUDY PROGRAMME (19.13)21

6. MAIN PRINCIPLES OF KNOWLEDGE EVALUATION SYSTEM (19.14)

21

7. INFORMATION ABOUT THE ORGANISATION OF ELABORATION OF STUDENTS' PRACTICE, LABORATORY WORKS, QUALIFICATION WORKS, DIPLOMA PROJECTS (19.15)

21

8. PROVISION OF THE POSSIBILITY TO CHOSE STUDY SUBJECTS (19.16)

22

9. POSSIBILITIES OF THE STUDENTS TO ACQUIRE INDIVIDUAL SUBJECTS AND TO FULLY DEVELOP THEIR ABILITIES (19.17)

23

3. PROVISION AND MANAGEMENT OF THE STUDIES 243.1. FINANCING OF THE STUDY PROGRAMME (19.8) 243.2. INFORMATION ON METHODICAL AND MATERAIL-TECHNICAL

RESOURCES FOR THE STUDY PROGRAMME (19.9)24

3.3. PARTICIPATION OF STUDENTS IN IMPLEMENTATION OF STUDY PROGRAMMES (19.10)

30

4. SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH (CREATIVE) WORK OF PERSONNEL AND STUDENTS (19.12)

31

5. 4.1. ACADEMIC PERSONNEL. 31

4.2. SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH (CREATIVE) WORK32

5. PROVISION OF THE QUALITY OF STUDIES AND GUARANTIES 34

6. ADVANTAGES AND SHORTCOMINGS OF THE PROGRAMME 35

7. DEVELOPMENT PLAN OF THE PROFESSIONAL STUDY PROGRAMME

36

8. SUMMARY 37

II LIST OF APPENDICES 39

OBJECTIVES AND TASKS

The problem of prosthetics

Today in Latvia there are 33 diplomaed technicians of prosthetics-orthesis and 2 engineers. Some of them have the working experience of three years (the first graduation took place in 1998). Every five years of activity technicians and engineers should attend courses of qualification improvement and obtain certification.

In Latvia in the early XXI Century there are functioning 7 prosthetics/orthesis enterprises: "POC", Prosthetics-orthesis workshop in Sloka, "Orto pluss”, "Valeo", "Druka", "Hemat", "Medika pluss". None of these organisations are licenced in accordance with the EU standards.

In the State level there is not created any examination centre, which is obliged to carry out centralised examinations of professional qualification for all levels.

The only professional expert from Bulgaria, which has signed a temporary labour agreement, is carrying out complex and atypical prosthetics in Latvia.

Short information on RTU laboratory of atypical prosthetics and Centre of training of disabled people.

1997 January Creation of laboratory of untypical prosthetics1999 May Affiliation of Laboratory of untypical prosthetics with Centre of

training of disabled people1999 December Affiliation of Laboratory of untypical prosthetics with

Centre of training of disabled people Licensed in manufacturing of prostheses

2000 Laboratory of untypical prosthetics with Centre of training of disabled people got an order in children’s prosthetics

Number of persons training on Bionic and prosthetics is 6

Goal of the education: training of specialists of prosthetics with the highest education in the sphere of Bionics and Prosthetics. For complex and atypical prosthetics, as well as certification of enterprises and their staff, Latvia needs local specialists. Therefore already today Latvia needs not less than 60 specialists and further – 5 specialists every year.

Tasks of the programme:The overall task of implementation of the professional Master study programme in Bionics and Prosthetics is to render the highest professional education and to ensure the level of knowledge adequately to the Master degree. Obligations of the specialists:

1. Diagnostics according complex and atypical cases, as well as according congenital anomaly.

2. Elaboration of the programme (programme, calculations, technical documentation, production technology) for producing of prosthetic and orthopaedic technical auxiliary appliances, which are connected with complex and atypical cases.

3. Training of patients in application of atypical prosthetic and orthosis appliances.

4. Organisation and realisation of qualification improvement training for engineers, technicians and personnel, which work in this sphere.

5. Managerial work, which is connected with establishing and functioning of prosthetic workshop for complex and atypical prosthetic/orthosis appliances, involvement also of the elements of rehabilitation process.

I

SELF-EVALUATION REPORT

1. CONTENT AND ORGANISATION OF THE STUDY PROGRAMME

1.1. INTRODUCTORY INFORMATION

Introductory information on theRTU professional Master Programme

"Bionics and Prosthetics"

Part one – BIONICS

Bionics, as a new technological direction, officially has originated on September 13-15, 1960, in Dayton (State Ohio, USA), where a symposium "Live Prototypes – the Key of New Technologies" was held. Later these words became the motto of Bionics. The graphic symbol – a scalpel and a soldering-iron joined by an integral – became the emblem of the Bionics. The scalpel is the symbol of biology, the soldering-iron – that of technology, but the integral – a sign, which associates both scientific disciplines.

The word "Bionics" (Greek bios – life) was created by Jack Steel in August, 1958. The main essence of modern Bionics – cognition of the live unit. The Essence. MacCellock has introduced a common name for imitation of one living form to another – BIO MIMESIS. This is the basis of existence of organic nature.

Main Directions of Bionics

Neuro-Bionics – investigates and models the information processing performed by animal and human nervous systems. There are created neurons, neuron networks, modelled mnemonic processes, memory, bio-autoregulation, adaptation etc. Sometimes there are created analyser hybrids, based on the electronics and the live organ of a live object.

Analyser systems. Investigates and models organs of sight (from them 90% of the external information is received) and hearing, receptors of cold, heat, oscillation, bio-field, gravitation etc.

Orientation and navigation. Investigates and models mechanisms and systems of organic nature, which ensures information reception for local, regional, global condition of the bio-object in space and time.

Bioenergetics. Investigates and models structural-functional, mass-geometric- kenematic and dynamic-leading macro-mechanical principles and peculiarities of organic nature for creation of new manipulation, mechanism and system of movement in space, new elements, materials and appliances.

Biotechnical robotics (BTR). Simultaneously with its original achievements, this direction, both in focus and selectively collects the results of other directions of Bionics with the aim to create bio-robots. When dealing with the object of BTR modelling, two directions are marked out: anthropomorphic BTR – investigates a human being (Homo sapiens), in order to create an android. Zoomorphic BTR – with immense number of modelling objects in the animal world – for creation of one or another type of zoo-robot.

Bionic methods

Method of replication. Based on imitation (replication) of individual features and structures of living objects. The Bionics has started its life with this method.

However, in the course of deepening cognition of biologic forms of substance movement it will have much less significance (mainly in the sphere of macro-mechanics of organisms).

Method of modelling. It is characterised as investigation of phenomena and processes on models, in order to get an idea of the investigated natural systems.

Technology of Bionic Investigations

Let's schematically regard the work technology of organisation and planning of bionic investigation, as well as creation of bionic collectives. It contains three stages.

The first stage (biological) – analysis of a biological prototype. This is the basic analysis and contains investigation of individual living objects for solution of the set tasks with various means. Usually, because of the complexity stage, this stage turns out to be the longest one.

The second stage (theoretical) – modelling. This stage is connected with collection of received data, their formalisation, modelling and creation of functional schemes, as well as finding of regularities. Material and rational limits, for realisation of the idea for the next stage, are being ascertained.

Let's consider the most wide-spread classification of modelling according which all existing models are divided into two types:

- physical – the qualities of which are similar to those of the investigation object and differ only in the aspect of material, size and phenomena movement speed. They are investigated by means of the resemblance theory;

- abstract – created from signs (just like in computation) or models – analogues, which differ from the bio-prototypes with the physical nature and other physical processes in them.

The third stage (technical) – bionic synthesis. It contains the functioning equipment elaborated by engineers – the bionic model of the biological object. It should be noted that the Bionics has introduced its own content of model perception. The principal distinction is that unlike the traditional goal (investigation of the prototype) the main goal of the bionic model is realisation of the concrete quality of the live object, stated in the technical task.

The main levels, which could be reproduced in the bionic model: nuclear, molecular, genetic, organelle, cellular, tissue, organ system, organism, population, biocenosis levels.

Conclusion:

The science "Bionics" combines three directions of science – biology (medicine), mathematics and engineering with the final goal – creation of new appliances, equipment, mechanisms, systems and processes by analogy of the live world. The sub-field of the Bionics "Anthropomorphic biotechnical robotics" is connected with human prosthetics and creation of androids. Therefore, the first part of the study programme is called "Bionics" and consists of 9+1 specific subjects, which form the fundament of the profession.

Part two – PROSTHETICS

Chronologically there are formed several stages of prosthetics development: clinical, clinically-physiologic, medically-technical and bionic.

A. Clinical stage. Ended in late 1940ies. Characterised by clinical study of contingent of invalids, which need prosthetics. The leaders of this stage where doctors – orthopaedists and surgeons, but the masters of prosthetics carried out their instructions. The main issues of this stage were recommendations on amputation methodics, formation of trunks, reconstructive surgeries etc. But no calculations and technical investigation was carried out, i.e. – construction and production of prosthetic appliances were based only on vast practical material.

B. Clinical-physiological stage. Prosthetics started with the attraction of physiologists and biomechanics to the sphere of prosthetics (in about 1942). There was carried out the functional prosthetics, investigating the possibilities of compensatory prosthetic appliances with the individuals after traumatic amputations and orthopaedic deformations at their exploitation and elaboration and strengthening of CNS conditioned reflexes and temporary ligaments. There was created a completely new methodics of preparation for prosthetics and training methodics for exploitation of prosthetic-orthopaedic appliances.

C. Medical-technical stage. Started in 1955 with principally new methodics, with turbulent introduction of appliances, which study manipulating and movement act physiological and biomechanical parameters. They ensured accuracy of an enormous amount of measurements and automated complex data processing. There was investigated the kenematics and dynamics of movements, analysed the main mechanisms of movement act control, established physiological and biomechanical preconditions for construction of new age prosthetic-orthopaedic appliances.

Engineers, who have designed new articles, for the first time receive objective initial data and materials for construction of prosthetic appliances based on the physiological and biomechanical parameters of movement acts. The received enormous amount of information and application of powerful theoretical methods for the first time allowed to create mathematic models of various level of complexity in the form of differential equations. In the result of this there are obtained unitary schemes of amputation/paresis/defect assembling of various levels, taking into account the individual peculiarities of an invalid.

The third stage have "reached the top", when elaboration and improvement of many constructions started to conflict with the internal control, energetic and biomechanical abilities. Typical contradictions enter into force with rapidly increased free kenematic chain degrees of freedom and possibilities to control it by the invalid himself/herself (simultaneously divided number of leading channels – for a healthy person maximally three) with traction drive, not when talking about the energetic incompatibility with energy-information biomechanical transformers. Tests for solution of these contradictions were started, for example, in 1960ies there was created a prosthetic arm with bio-electronic control, using the external sources of energy (electricity, compressed gas, hydro-accumulators).

D. Bionic stage. Started in 1980 with elaborations of Prof. Itiro Kato, Prof. Adam Moretski, Prof. Evgeniy Dukendjiev, which based on a new philosophically-methodological level formed a scientific field – biotechnical robotics.

The ideology of this stage consists of the complex bionic modelling of a human being with the aim to create androids (artificial person – bio-robot) and parallel application – functional human prosthetics.

Some results of bionic human modelling

Multi-focal internal ocular crystals (contact lenses) – used in case of myopia and far-sightedness after cataract removal. Polymethylacrilat (BY IOLAB).

Eye coating replace the damaged bone, which holds apple of the eyes. Silicon elastic (BY SURGITEX).

Cerebral liquid carries water from the cerebrum with a catheter to the abdominal cavity, where it is absorbed. Silicon elastic, AMES elaboration (BY DOW CORNING WRIGHT).

Cochlea implant, subjected to clinical testing, sends electric signals to the nerve of inner ear. Requires a small internal source of energy. Teflon insulation with platinum input and electrodes (BY RICHARDS).

Artificial ear, covered with skin-graft, replaces the natural ear, lost in the result of an accident. Silicon elastic (BY SURGITEX).

Nose implant for cosmetic change of the shape. Silicon elastic (BY DOW CORNING WRIGHT).

Mandible holder with titanium, bio-compatible material, which ensures reconstruction of the jaw after a loss of a bone in the result of illness or an accident (BY NOBIL PHARMA).

Artificial chin, it should be hard or silicon elastic filled with jelly (BY DOW CORNING WRIGHT).

Shoulder prosthetics, imitates the bone structure. Titanium core is placed in the upper arm bone and in a titanium socket in the shoulder-blade, plastic origin (BY INTERMEDICS).

Elbow articulation implant with a titanium extension inside the upper arm and elbow bones; plastic cushion prevents mutual contact of metals in the articulation. Article of COONRADX MOOREY (BY ZIMMER).

Absorbing stifts fixed in the places of bone and cartilaginous fragments, except for metallic stift removal surgery. Polymer (BY JOHNSON & JOHNSON) production.

Carpus implant replaces the bone with art arthritmaseptic necrosis or wound. Silicon elastic, SWANSON (BY DOW CORNING WRIGHT) article.

Knuckle replacements, shown here for both wrists, but applied also for smaller joints. Silicon elastic, SWANSON (BY DOW CORNING WRIGHT) article.

Temporary sinews, implanted during the surgical operation of an arm injury, forms a tunnel through which the transplantation of a permanent sinew is carried out. Silicon elastic, HUNTER & SWANSON (BY DOW CORNING WRIGHT) article.

Endoporesis of hip joint, complex core, ceramic sphere and titanium socket.

Adjustable femoral implant replaces the bone, which is damaged by cancerous growth and is removed from growing children. Every 6 months a surgeon performs a small incision and inserts a turnable wedge, in order to stretch the tubular prosthetic appliance, similarly to car jack. Cobalt – chrome – molybdenum fusion and improved quality polyurethane LEWIS (BY DOW CORNING WRIGHT) article.

Artificial knee.

Artificial ligament ensures the replacement of the ligament in an injured knee GORE_TEXX (BY W.L.GORE) article.

Ankle implant replaces the felt bone and the distal part of the shinbone. Plastic, cobalt and nickel fusion with molybdenum (BY ZIMMER).

An appliance supplying the heart rhythm ensures rhythmic function of the heart in case of heart diseases. Titanium, galvanic metal microelectronics.

Artificial heart, elaborated for temporary exploitation, while awaiting the heart transplant. From the external air the impulses perform the work of the diaphragm, by pumping the blood. Most often polyurethane (BY UNIVERSITY OF UTAN).

Prosthetic appliances for breast enlargement in order to reconstruct the shape of mammary glands and mamillae after surgical intervention. Silicon elastic.

Breast equalizers – increases the volume of breasts in case of congenital breast ptosis. Silicon elastic (BY DOW CORNING WRIGHT).

Artificial disc. An appliance for fixing of the spine (still in trial stage), holds the spine in unit, by stabilising it after the fracture of the spine or a tumour. Stainless metal (BY UNIVERSITY OF VERMONT).

Dialyse-accessible transplantation connects the main artery with the vein in patients without kidneys, which allows to convey the blood for purification and to return them to the body. GORE TEX (BY W.L.GORE).

Penis. SURGITEX prosthetic appliance. Silicon elastic and dacron (BY SURGITEX).

Testicle implant replaces one or both testicles after surgical amputation or in case of their congenital deficiency. Silicon elastic (BY SURGITEX).

Blood-vessel prosthetics, which connects two fragments of abdominal blood-vessels after the damage of the blood-vessels or surgery. (BY NOTROIC).

With the fragments of soft tissues the tissues of thoracic and abdominal walls are replaced, GORE_TEXX (BY W.L.GORE).

Femoral prosthetics – bends in the knee, ankle and concavity. Knee and ankle – titanium and its fusions, concavities and foot – plastic, composite knee (BY SABOLICH).

Artificial arm, if the amputation place is above the elbow. Uses the muscle contraction in the remaining part of the arm, in order to activate the electric signals, which bend the carpus and elbow, opens and closes the palm. Complex prosthetic appliance with electronic movement control (BY SABOLICH).

Conclusions:

The prosthetics is the sub-field of the Bionics direction "Anthropomorphic biotechnical robotics", the aim of which is creation of bionic models of human organs and systems, which are used in medicine for functional prosthetics.

MOTIVATION FOR ELABORATION OF THE PROFESSIONAL MASTER PROGRAMME "BIONICS AND PROSTHETICS"

1. The objects of prosthetics become very complex , i.e. become atypical. Development of the new level of high-speed transport, space investigation, complex production machines and household mechanisms have transformed the objects of prosthetics from simple and complex prosthetics towards atypical prosthetics. Modern medicine today may safe the life of an individual, which has very severe injuries and damages of internal organs and locomotor system. All that in the XXI Century will change the composition of patients and the concept of prosthetics.

2. Personnel of prosthetics → experts of Bionics. The uniqueness of the objects will cause the need to use non-standard, obscure

methods, which will require high qualification and fundamental knowledge.Today only prosthetics technicians are trained (rarely – engineers). The

professional abilities of such personnel cover only simple, rarely complex, spheres of prosthetics.

For atypical prosthetics there are required highly qualified personnel with fundamental bionic background and professional progress in prosthetics.

3. Since 1992 in RTU there functions the academic Master programme "Bionics" and starting with 1998 – "Bionics and Prosthetics" with the duration of studies of 3 years. That means that Riga Technical University has a positive experience of 9 years (18 diplomaed Masters), teaching staff, material and technical resources and stable integration with the University of Latvia and the Academy of Medicine.

It is necessary to decrease the duration of studies from 3 to 2 years, in order to focus their preparation to prosthetics.

1.9. SUMMARY (19.1) AND TRAINING DURATION (19.3) IN THE STUDY PROGRAMME “BIONICS AND PROSTHETICS”

The study programme has been elaborated in compliance with the following resolutions, adopted by the RTU Senate:- April 29, 1996, “Main principles of drawing up and adoption of study programmes

and study plans”;- January 27, 1997, “On studies according to individual plans”;

- February 24, 1997, “On studies according to shortened individual plans”;- April 7, 1997, “Principles of organization of studies according to individual plans”;- March 30, 1998, “On structure of professional study programme”;

- March 26, 2001,“On professional RTU Bachelor and Master study programmes”;- April 30, 2001, “On united requirements of RTU in respect the study programmes

and obtaining the professional Bachelor and Master degrees”.The programme was adopted by the RTU Senate as of 25.06.01. No 460.The programme is licensed by the Ministry of Education and Science of the Republic of Latvia as of 06.09.01. Licence Nr 04051-2.

Table 1. Plan of the study programme “Bionics and Prosthetics”

RIGA TECHNICAL UNIVERSITY

Machinery Science DepartmentMechanics Institution

Laboratory of atypical prosthetics with Center of training of disabled people

Study level: Training for Master DegreeNominal duration of the study: 2 yearsTraining volume: 80 CPAcquired qualification: M. Sc. of Bionics and Prosthetics

01 SemesterNr. Title of subject Quantity Hours assig. Study.check. p.k Code Kr/Hrs L. Pr. Lab. W. E. T.

A . OBLIGATORY SUBJECTS OF TRAINING1. MBI504.0 Human biomechanics 3 64 4 E 153312. MBI501.0 Philosophical and methodological basis of bionics 3 64 4 E 153313. MBI511.0 Building of prostheses and prosthetics for human’s 4 64 4 E 15331

B. SUBJECTS OF LIMITED OPTION2. Profile Subjects 82.1. MBI506.0 Corporative anatomy end physiology of vertebrates 3 64 4 E 153312.2. MBI505.0 Corporative anatomy end physiology of non-vertebrates 2 48 4 1 I 153312.3. MBI521.0 Aerobionics 3 48 3 I 153312.4. MBI520.0 Hydrobionics 3 48 3 I 153312.5. MBI611.0 Control and Correction of movements by means of electrostimulations 2 32 2 E 15331

Total : 18

02 SemesterA . OBLIGATORY SUBJECTS OF TRAINING

1. MBI508.0 Animal biomechanics 3 64 4 E 153312. MBI513.0 Zoomorphic robotics 3 64 4 E 153313. MBI507.0 Comparative entomology 3 64 4 I 153314. MBI613.0 Equipment and methods of clinical biomechanics 2 32 2 E 153315. MBI615.0 Practical Work 6 240 D 15331

B. SUBJECTS OF LIMITED OPTION3. Humanities/Social subjects 4 3.1. HSP488.0 Sociology of business 2 32 1 1 I 011263.2. Sociology of organization 2 32 1 1 I 011243.3. Ethics of science and technology 2 32 1 1 I 01126

E . QUALIFICATION WORK1 MBI002.0 Master work 5 I 15331 Total: 26

03 SemesterA . OBLIGATORY SUBJECTS OF TRAINING

1. MBI509.0 Spatial mechanisms and system theory 2 64 4 E 153312. MBI614.0 Prosthetics and Orthotics for Children’s 2 32 2 E 153313. MBI612.0 Human bionics 2 32 2 E 15331

B. SUBJECTS OF LIMITED OPTION2. LANGUAGES 3 2.1. HVD409.1 English 3 64 4 I 010732.2. HVD410.1 German 3 64 4 I 01073

4. Subjects of management and economy 44.1. IUE334.0 Economy of Entrepreneurship 4 64 2 2 I 181314.2. IUE409.0 Market research for new products 2 32 1 1 I 181314.3. IUV415.0 Legal regulations of enterprising 2 32 2 I 181014.4. IUE307.0 Planning of Enterprises 2 32 1 1 I 18131

E . QUALIFICATION WORK1 MBI002.0 Master work 5 I 15331 Total: 18

04 Semester

A . OBLIGATORY SUBJECTS OF TRAINING1. MBI518.0 Design of Prostheses 3 80 4 1 E 15331

B. SUBJECTS OF LIMITED OPTION2. LANGUAGES 3 2.1. HVD409.2 English 3 64 4 I 010732.2. HVD410.2 German 3 64 4 I 01073

5. Pedagogic subjects 4 5.1. HSP484.0 Human Psychology 2 32 1 1 I 011245.2. HSP446.0 Human Pedagogies 2 32 1 1 I 011245.3. HSP485.0 Psychology of Relationships 2 32 1 1 I 01124

E . QUALIFICATION WORK1 MBI002.0 Master work 8 I 15331

Total: 18

Total: 80 CP , 1312 tr.hrs.

The total amount of the student's work during a term is 756 hours, of which 336 hours held in lecture-rooms and 420 hours – an independent work of the student (elaboration of the study process, preparation for laboratory and practical works, seminars, tests and examinations).

The descriptions of the subjects of the study programme “Bionics and Prosthetics” are given in the Appendix 2 hereto.

1.10. PROPORTION OF THE BASIC AND OPTIONAL SUBJECTS (19.4)

The study subjects are divided in compliance with the requirements of the University Senate as follows:- compulsory study subjects of the university;- compulsory subjects of machinery profile;- compulsory subjects of the specialisation;- subjects of limited option of the specialisation;- optional subjects.

The structure of the study subjects is regulated by the resolutions of the University Senate.

The structure of the subjects in the programme “Bionics and Prosthetics” is given in the Table 3.

Table 3. Master studies   KP H %Compulsory subjects of the specialisation “Bionics and Prosthetics” 30 624 39Subjects of limited option of specialisation the “Bionics and Prosthetics” 8 128 8The humanities 14 256 16Study subjects of economic profile 4 64 4Practical work 6 240 15Master project 18 288 18Total 80 1600 100

1.4. COMPARISON WITH FOREIGN PROGRAMMES AND CONCLUSIONS

There do not exist any analogues for the programme "Bionics and Prosthetics". For comparison there is chosen University of Strathclyde "Masters of Science in Rehabilitation Studies", Glasgow, Scotland. From the aspect of content, it is closer to the second part of RTU study programme – "Prosthetics".

The Conparision of the programmes "Bionics and Prosthetics" and “Rehabilitation” is given in the Table 4.

COMPARISON OF THE PROGRAMMES

UNIVERSITY OF STARTHCLYDE“Rehabilitation”

RĪGAS TEHNISKĀ UNIVERSITĀTE

“Bionics and prosthetics”

Education Masters of Science Professional Master of Science

Registration September 2000 June 2001

Program volume1 KP price 10 tr.hrs. = 30£ 1 KP price 40 tr.hrs.= Ls 12

Total CP/hours

Total 180/1800

Prosthetics 120/1200

General educ.60/600 Total

CP/hours

Total 80/3200

Bionics20/800

Prosthetics42/1680

General educ.18/720

Obligatory subjectsCP/hours

35/350 --- 35/350 Obligatory subjectsCP/hours 30/1200

14/560 16/640 --

Subjects of limited optionCP/hours

Prosth. Doc. Prosth. 30/300

Doc.20/200

-- Subjects of limited optionCP/hours

26/1040 6/240 2/80 18/72030/300 20/20

0Subjects of free optionCP/hours

Prosth. Doc. Prosth. 30/300

Doc.60/600

Prosth.25/250

Doc.5/50

Subjects of free optionCP/hours

0/0 -- -- --55/550 65/65

0practice/hours 0/0 --- practice/hours 6/240 -- 6/240 --Project CP/hours 60/600 --- Project CP/hours 18/720 -- 18/720 --

Duration 36 - 60 months. 24 months.

Continue

Contents

Program “Rehabilitation”Program

Bionics (part 1) prosthetics (part 2)Introductory Biomechanics

Lower Limb Prosthetic BiomechanicsLower Limb Orthotic Biomechanics

Clinical Gait AnalysisClinical Governance

Advanced Prosthetic ScienceAdvanced Orthotic Science

Orthotic StudiesProsthetic Studies

Animal biomechanicsZoomorphic roboticsCorporative anatomy end physiology of vertebrates Corporative anatomy end physiology of non-vertebrates Comparative entomologyAerobionics Hydrobionics Philosophical and methodological basis of bionicsHuman bionics

Human biomechanics

Building of prostheses and prosthetics for human’sProsthetics and Orthotics for Children’s

Equipment and methods of clinical biomechanics

Design of Prostheses

Spatial mechanisms and system theory

Information SciencePerformance Measurement

Accountancy StudiesResearch Methodology

Data Analysis

Humanities/Social subjectsSociology of business

Sociology of organizationEthics of science and technology

Subjects of management and economy

Project Economy of EntrepreneurshipMarket research for new productsLegal regulations of enterprising

Planning of EnterprisesPedagogic subjects

Human Pedagogies (for masters) Psychology of Relationships Psychology of Relationships

1.5. DURATION OF THE MASTER PROJECT (19.5)

Final examinations of the study process and duration of their elaboration is established by the respective resolutions of the Senate and they are as follows:

Master project “Bionics and Prosthetics” – 720 hours.

For comparison – UNIVERSITY OF STRATHCLYDEDuration of the final examination of “Rehabilitation” (England):Master project “Rehabilitation” – 600 hours.

1.6. CONCLUSIONS OF THE COMPARISON

Basic criteria of the comparison:a. content of the programme;b. volume of the programme;c. division of the elements of the programmes.

1. When analysing the content of the programmes it can be seen that "Rehabilitation" is quite narrowly orientated to orthesis/prosthetics of lower extremities. In addition that applies both to the clinical content of the programme and the academic one – biomechanics and prosthetics/orthesis science (classical approach).

In the programme "Bionics and Prosthetics" there are treated prosthetics and orthesis of all locomotor system and individual segments. The section "Bionics" contains anatomy and Bionics, which allows deeper understanding of the principles of movement origination, but studying of bionic methods offers a strong tool for investigation both in modelling of movement structures, and processes, which they involve.

Unlike the programme "Rehabilitation" the students for the work with patients, except for the Master Project, acquire the 6 week course of study practice so that when elaborating the Project there would be certain experience for obtaining the results required for defending.

2. Though the duration of studies for the programme "Bionics and Prosthetics" is shorter than for the programme "Rehabilitation", the amount of hours exceeds it for more than 1.5 times. It is connected with acquiring of wide range theoretical and practical knowledge in this sphere.

3. Comparison of the correlation of programme elements (sections) give the following results:

Study programmeGeneral subjects

Special subjects Work withpatients

Prosthetics Bionics Practice/Project"Bionics and Prosthetics"

720 h/23% 720 h/22% 800 h/25% 960 h/30%

"Rehabilitation" 600 h/33% 600 h/33% ––––––––– 600 h/33%

Thus, the relative showings of both programmes are similar. Moreover, the students when acquiring the study programme not only study the prosthetic sciences, but also acquire the scientific verities in Bionics and bionic methods of investigation, including in respect the issues of prosthetics.

1.7. PERSPECTIVES OF THE STUDY PROGRAMME FROM THE ASPECT OF INTERESTS OF LATVIA (19.6.)

1. Education in Bionics and Prosthetics is highly cost-effective intellectual product organisation of which does not require natural resources, huge financial resources and human resources.

2. Lack of competition is observed world-wide.

3. The bionic fundament of a prosthetist allows him/her to solve the schemes of orthopaedic articles of any complexity, to find atypical approached when designing prosthetic-orthopaedic systems.

1.8. ADVERTISING AND INFORMATION ON STUDY POSSIBILITIES

Information dissemination about study programs and possibilities to study in program “Bionics and prosthetics” is implemented through the daily exhibitions such as “School 2000”, also through annually RTU Days, and LUP with CTDP booklets.

There are annually hold “Opened Doors Days” for secondary and special educational institutes graduates. As this measures are held on Saturdays as well, the inhabitants of many Latvian regions can arrive there. An interested persons can see study process organization and logistics, laboratories, audiences, computer centre, library, students hostel and meet administration.

3. TEACHING AND EVALUATION OF KNOWLEDGE

3.1. INFORMATION ABOUT COOPERATION OF THE STRUCTURAL UNITS IN IMPLEMENTATION OF THE STUDY PROGRAMME (19.13)

RTU Study department is responsible for the organisation of education.Students acquire their knowledge at lectures, seminars, they carry out practical and

laboratory works. There is going on increasing of the methodical resources, the teaching staff work on compilation and publication of synopses of lectures and textbooks.

There is established a certain schedule in acquiring of the subjects. Continuing the subject of a concrete block, lecturers carry out the admission control of the students, in order to find out degree of their background. With the aim to ensure the correspondence of the study subject to the requirements of speciality, the professors group of the "Prosthetic mechanics" carry out reviewing of the study subjects in other structural units.

3.2. MAIN PRINCIPLES OF THE KNOWLEDGE EVALUATION

SYSTEM (19.14)The work of students is evaluated mainly at the end of the semester. Students

carry out their study work, pass tests and examinations. The highest mark for quality is 10 credits (resolution No 402 of the RTU Senate as of April 24, 1995)Examinations are passed in writing according to the regulations of RTU "On Examination Passing in RTU" (adopted on 30.03.98).

3.3. INFORMATION ABOUT THE ORGANISATION OF ELABORATION OF STUDENTS' PRACTICE, LABORATORY WORKS, QUALIFICATION WORKS, DIPLOMA PROJECTS (19.15)

During the professional study programme "Bionics and Prosthetics" practical work of 240 hours is envisaged. The practical work is acquiring of professional experience, when student works in manufacturing of prosthetic appliances.

Programme of the practice

Code of the subject Title of the subject Amount TestingMBI137.0 Practice 3 credits – 240 hours Test

Study plan

1 Work with prosthetic materials Hours1 2 31.1. Plaster and skin

1.1.1. tools and appliances1.1.2. technology of plaster and skin processing

16

1.2. Timber1.2.1. tools and appliances1.2.2. benches for wood processing1.2.3. processing technology1.2.4. tools for mechanical wood processing

24

1.3. Plastics1.3.1. tools and appliances1.3.2. benches and machinery for plastic processing1.3.3. technology for plastic processing

16

1.4. Metals1.4.1. measurement and control machinery1.4.2. cutting tools1.4.3. abrasive tools1.4.4. mechanical metal processing

a) turneryb) millingc) boringd) abrasive

1.4.5. connection of metalsa) screw connectionsb) soldering

42

Total for the 1st item: 982. Work with prosthetic machinery2.1. Prosthetic-assembling machinery 62.2. Appliance for modelling of the plaster negative of lower

extremities under load2

2.3. Complex for foot examination 6Total for the 2nd item: 14

3. Work with patients3.1. Making of the negative and positive of an extremity3.2. Making of the receiving shell

3.1.1. from plastic3.1.2. from resin

3.3. Assembling of the extremity prosthetic appliance3.4. Assembling of the extremity orthoses 3.5. Making of a bionic sole

Total for the 3rd item: 128Total: 240

Laboratory works are organised in compliance with the study programme. They are carried out in specially prepared premises, using computers.

The Master projects are adopted, elaborated and defended in compliance with the regulations, adopted by RTU.

3.4. PROVISION OF THE POSSIBILITY TO CHOSE STUDY

SUBJECTS (19.16) In addition to the minimum number of subjects students may select additional study courses from the block of optional choice and limited option (see the programme

appendix 1). The study volume of the humanities and social subjects is determined by the resolution of the Senate for each study level individually.

The total minimal number of the subjects of the humanities, social science and languages for the Master programme is 18 CP, or 22.5 %.

2.5. POSSIBILITIES OF THE STUDENTS TO ACQUIRE

INDIVIDUAL SUBJECTS AND TO FULLY DEVELOP THEIR

ABILITIES (19.17)Student of "Bionics and Prosthetics" may improve their knowledge of Latvian

by selecting the subject of the Latvian language. The can also attend paid courses.RTU Language Centre provides the possibility to learn foreign languages. The students can lern English, German, and French. Learning of the chosen language is following:

- admission control and division into groups, according to the level of knowledge;- prvovision of the study program;- final and intermediate testing.

There exist problems in learning of foreign languages, which is caused by the low level of the knowledge acquired in secondary schools.

RTU students are offered various possibilities for sports activities. It is possible to chose the form of activities, which is most suitable for the student. The most popular is track and field evetns, basketball, weightlifting and swiming.

RTU students can use several sporting bases, a swimming-pool, open air and indoor tennis courts, weightlifting gymnasium, table-tennis base, summer sports and recreation base "Ronīši", winter sporting base at "Braki".

The Laboratory of Atypical Prosthetics and Invalid Training Centre has new computer class with 10 working places with INTERNET connection. The study programme envisages computer training.

6. PROVISION AND MANAGEMENT OF STUDIES

6.1. FINANCING OF THE STUDY PROGRAMME (19.8)

According to the regulations of RTU costs per one student are the following: 750 Ls per academic year in day department; 560 Ls per academic year in night (part time) department; 380 Ls per academic year in extra-mural (part time) department

6.2. INFORMATION ON METHODICAL AND MATERAIL-TECHNICAL RESOURCES FOR THE STUDY PROGRAMME (19.9)

The materail and technical resources of the study programme "Bionics and Prosthetics" offices of the Laboratory of Atypical Prosthetics and the Invalid Training Centre. All premises are repaired and equiped with everything, what is necessary for manufacturing of prosthetic appliances and training of students (lectures, practical and laboratory works). The Laboratory of Atypical Prosthetics and the Invalid Training Centre within their financial possibilities acquire new equipment and tools. See descrioption of the Laboratory of Atypical Prosthetics and the Invalid Training Centre in the appenix.

RTU has published books and methodic recommendations, which correspond to the requirements of the professional study programme "Bionics and Prosthetics", as well as other books, the list of which is attached to the description of each subject (see appendix 1).

Riga Technical University –Laboratory of Atypical Prosthetics and Invalid Training Centre

The Laboratory of Atypical Prosthetics and the Invalid Training Centre occupy the first and the ground floor. Next to the entrance to the laboratory under a cover there is arranged the site for invalid carriages. Training is carried on the first floor (three lecture-rooms, secretariat, total area 240 m2). On the ground floor there is located the Laboratory (total area 230 m2), which consists of the following:

metal-processing workshop mechanic workshop woodworking workshop

chemistry laboratory plaster casting workshop shower and toilet reception rooms cloak-room lecture-rooms

(Fig 2.) Metal-processing workshop1. Washery2. Drilling machine 3. Universal turner’s bench4. Cantilever milling cutter5. Small disk milling cutter6. Desktop for welding operations7. Metalwork desktop 8. Material cases9. Tool cases

(Fig. 3.) Metal workshop1. Laser tool for assembly of prosthetic

appliances2. Metalwork desktop 3. Drawing board4. Shelf for materials5. Case for tools6. Couch

(Fig. 4) Chemical laboratory:1. Thermo-stove2. Metalwork desktop for resin casting3. Metalwork desktop 4. Vacuum equipment5. Case for materials

(Fig. 5) Plaster modelling room1. Plaster settler2. Appliance for plaster modelling 3. Sand bath4. Couch for patients5. Ceramic sink

Sanitary unit

( Fig. 6) Wood-working workshop1. Universal electrical desktop for wood-works processing2. Shelf for materials

(Fig.7) Lecture-room1. 10 desks and chairs2. Tretban3. Mirror4. Teacher’s table

5. Blackboard

(Fig.8) Cloak room 1. Wardrobe2. Bench3. Mirror

(Fig. 9) Receptioon room1. Couch for patients2. Desk with chair3. Stationery case 4. Wardrobe

2) Riga Technical University – Laboratory of Atypical Prosthetics and Invalid Training Centre. Daugavpils branch.Started its activity on 06.03.01. Premises are equiped for reception of patients. Workshop for plaster modelling.3) Riga Technical University – Laboratory of Atypical Prosthetics and Invalid Training Centre. Liepājas branch.Started its activity on 17.04.01. Premises are equiped for reception of patients. Workshop for plaster modelling.

3.3. PARTICIPATION OF STUDENTS IN IMPLEMENTATION OF STUDY PROGRAMMES (19.10)

The elaborated study programme is designed and improved in cooperation with the representatives of graduates and students, it has been discussed by the Council of the Faculty (20 % of the council members are students of the Faculty), RTU Senate (25% of Senate members are RTU students). Participation of the students in elaboration of the programmes ensures observance of their interests in the study process.

The professional study programme "Bionics and Prosthetics" has been elaborated and adopted in compliance with the legislation of the Republic of Latvia, Constitution of RTU, resolutions of RTU Senate and other statutory acts (Appendix 5).

The professional study programme "Bionics and Prosthetics" and its provision is enclosed to this report (Appendix 1).

During the study process students can express their objections and proposals on its operative organization (location of lectures, time, substitiion of lecturers, etc.)

4. SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH (CREATIVE) WORK OF PERSONNEL AND STUDENTS (19.12)

4.1. ACADEMIC PERSONNEL

The professors group of the "Prosthetic mechanics" (PMG) in compliance with the law of the Republic of Latvia "On Universities" and the Constitution of RTU form the personnel staff, based on the amount of students and study load.

In PMG there work full-time 1 habilitated doctor of engineering, 1 doctor of engineering and 1 assistant. Their proportion is 0.46 per cent of the whole number of RTU teaching staff.

Total number of full-time teaching staff is 3. In addition, in PMG there work habilitated doctors of engineering and medicine, which hold more than one job, doctors of engineering, highly qualified specialists, the number of which is changing, but on average their number in an academic year is 12.

The list of the academic personnel and scientific questionnaires are attached to the report.

PMG regularly organise conferences and seminars. Teaching staff participates in courses and seminars of various durations in Latvia and abroad.

PMG has close contacts with the world leading manufacturers of prosthetic appliances:

- OTTO BOCK (Germany)- RKK "ENERGIYA" (Russia)

Production, technology and appliances of theses companies are used in our study process.

Table 5. Qualification description of professional (Master) programme teaching staff

No Lectured subject Name, surname Position Year of birth

1 2 3 4 51

234567

8910

11

12

13

Philosophical methodological basis of BionicsHuman BionicsZoomorphous roboticsHuman biomechanicsAnimal biomechanicsComparative entomologyManufacturing of prosthetic appliances and human prostheticsDesigning of prosthetic appliancesProsthetics and orthesis for childrenTheory of spatial mechanisms and systemsClinical biomechanical appliances and methodsComparative anatomy and physiology of vertebrate animalsComparative anatomy and

Evgeniy Dukendjiev

Evgeniy DukendjievEvgeniy DukendjievEvgeniy DukendjievEvgeniy Dukendjiev

ValdemārsSprungis

Evgeniy DukendjievEvgeniy DukendjievEvgeniy DukendjievJanis Rudnevs

Evgeniy Dukendjiev

Juris Aivars

Nora Shvinka

PMG Prof.

PMG Prof.PMG Prof.PMG Prof.PMG Prof.Doc. Dr.RTU Prof.RTU Prof.RTU Prof.

RTU Doc.Dr.

PMG Prof.

LU Prof.

1950

1950195019501950

195019501950

1950

141516

17181920212223242526272829

physiology of invertebratesAero-BionicsHydro-BionicsControl and correction of movement electro-stimulationEnglishGermanBusiness sociologyOrganisation psychologyBusiness economyMarketing of new production Legal regulation of businessBusiness planningPsychology (for Masters)Pedagogy (for Masters)Psychology of communicationPractical workMaster project

Evgeniy DukendjievEvgeniy Dukendjiev

Viktor MihnovichAnna Rotanova*Larisa Rozenberga*Valerijs Kunickis*Valerijs Kunickis*Zoja Sundukova*Anatolijs Madigenko*

Jānis Mezhelis*Airisa Steinberga*Beatrise Garjāne*AirisaSteinberga*Evgeniy DukendjievEvgeniy Dukendjiev

Prof. Dr.hab.PMG Prof.PMG Prof.

MasterAss.Prof. Dr.RTU lecturerAssist. Prof.Assist. Prof.Ass.Prof. Dr.Prof. Dr.hab.

Ass.Prof. Dr.Ass.Prof. Dr.Ass.Prof. Dr.Ass.Prof. Dr.

PMG Prof.PMG Prof.

19501950

1973

19501950

CVs of all teaching staff are enclosed, except for those, marked with "*". Their subjects apply to the blocks of humanitarian, social and general subjects and are accredited in the respective chairs.

4.2. SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH (CREATIVE) WORK

The theme of the research carried out by the teaching staff of the professors group of the "Prosthetic mechanics" is connected with human prosthetics, trends of its development in the world, development perspectives in Latvia and modern problematics.

The diploma projects of the graduates of the professional study programme are carried out in two directions:1. Elaboration of atypical prosthetic appliances in case of complex amputations;

improvement of existing prosthetic appliances and increasing their functional features.

2. Designing of special appliances, which facilitate production of prosthetic appliances, at the same time increasing the quality of production; elaboration of the evaluation system of prosthetic quality; designing of the system of invalid training.

3. Elaboration of the system for constant qualification improvement of the professional staff (worker, technician, engineer).

4. Elaboration of the system for quality assessment of prosthetic workshops with the further licensing of their structures.

5. Integration of the structures in EU prosthetic and rehabilitation programmes.

The scientific research carried out by the staff of the professors group of the "Prosthetic mechanics" (CVs of the staff see in the Appendix No 4) is connected with:1. Elaboration of human prosthetic methods (Prof. E. Dukendjiev). Elaborated

original methods of human prosthetics. Following the author method of E. Dukendjiev there are made atypical prosthetic appliances for LAP and ITC

patients. The author method has been described in the book Е.Дюкенджиев. Авторский метод протезирования человека. РИГА. РТУ. 1997.

2. Computerised designing of prosthetic appliances (Prof. V.Ušakovs).3. Methods and analysis of measurement of human movements in normal condition

and in case of various pathologies (ass. V.Mihnovich).4. Prinicples of controlling of the lower extremities (ass. O.Gainutdinov). The results

of the scientific works have been published in various publications (see CVs of the staff in the Appendix No 4). Creative work of several members of the teaching staff of the Laboratory of Atypical Prosthesis and the Invalid Training Centre is connected with modernisation of LAP and ITC, improvement of production technologies and servicing quality. Due to the works carried out in 2000 LAP has won the State competition, receiving the State order for children prosthetics.

5. T.Ogurcova. Telemetric investigation in the sphere of prosthetics/orthosis according to the triangle system Riga – Daugavpils – Liepāja. Identification of movement norm and pathology according the foot imprint in dynamics.

8. PROVISION OF THE QUALITY OF STUDIES AND GUARANTIES

The main quality indicator of training is high the quality of diploma projects, as well as the demand for the graduates on the labor market.

The professional group of "Prosthetic Mechanics" establishes and with the resolution of the Rector appoints the State Commission for evaluation of diploma projects. Highly skilled specialists are invited as reviewers, the chairperson and the members of the Commission. Their basic work is not related with the RTU structures. This approach ensures impartial and qualified evaluation of the covered study process.

The teaching staff of the professional group of "Prosthetic Mechanics" offers the students tutorials according to the timetable; students use them for their specific questions.

The reports of controlling services are discussed at the meetings of the professional group of "Prosthetic Mechanics". The RTU Rector’s control department carries out direct control of the issues concerning the quality of the study process, as well as conformity of lectures and practical activities to the adopted study plan. The control department carries out centralised questioning on the work quality of teaching staff. The head of the professional group of "Prosthetic Mechanics" also ensures the control over the studies.

In order to improve study quality the Laboratory of Atypical Prosthesis and the Invalid Training Centre:1. Improve the qualification of the employees. They attend courses, scientific conferences and seminars, as well as acquire new study programmes. 2. Educate new staff.3. Ensure contacts with students (see 3.3.), employers, and diplomaed specialists.4. Improve the material and technical base with the aim to increase the quality of practical work..

9. ADVANTAGES AND SHORTCOMINGS OF THE PROGRAMME

Advantages of the programme:1. The academic staff consists of highly qualified specialists of RTU, including

specialists in the sphere of in prosthetics (1 professor, 1 assistant professor and 1 assistant) with professional and academic education, after training in a leading German company OTTO BOCK.

2. Offices of the Laboratory of Atypical Prosthesis and the Invalid Training Centre are located in the in the centre of the city, not far from public transport. There are two branches in Daugavpils and Liepāja.

3. There is experience in prosthetics both according to the typical modern technology and according to the author's method of E. Dukendjiev with application of modern materials.

4. In 2000 the Laboratory of Atypical Prosthesis and the Invalid Training Centre has won the competition of children prosthetics.

5. For each subject there are elaborated text-books.6. The Laboratory of Atypical Prosthesis and the Invalid Training Centre join

theory and practice.

Shortcomings of the programme:1. Lack of some equipment for production of prosthetic and orthosis appliances.

Because of financial hardship, part of the equipment are universal instrument, adapted for production of prosthetic appliances.

2. It is necessary to increase the number of qualified specialists.

10. DEVELOPMENT PLAN OF THE PROFESSIONAL STUDY PROGRAMME

The professional study programme "Bionics and Prosthetics" in future should be developed in accordance with the principle – increasing of the professional skills of the students and demand on the labour market. The following changes are envisaged within the programme:

- improvement of contacts with the future work place by entering into cooperation agreements and specifying the themes of diploma projects;

- attraction of the representatives of customers, reviewers, employer to the evaluation of the a project or program.

- in cooperation with the universities of European countries to envisage additional studies abroad for each student.

It is envisaged to improve the material and technical basis:1. To acquire new equipment for production of prosthetic and orthosis appliances,

because at the moment being part of equipment of the Laboratory of Atypical Prosthesis and the Invalid Training Centre is adapted for production of prosthetic appliances.

2. To introduce new technologies in production of prosthetic and orthosis appliances (including use of INTERNET).

3. To provide implementation of the scientific works of the employees works in production and in prosthesis of patients (atypical prosthetic appliances with kenematic connection in big joints, bionic constructions of artificial joints, analysis

of the complex of prosthetics quality, application of electro-stimulation in prosthetics).

8. SUMMARY

Conclusions:

The RTU Master programme "Bionics and Prosthetics" has no analogues either in Europe on in the world. In this respect Latvia/RTU are leaders in formation of education in the new sphere of science – Bionics.

Last year in Europe – England – the UNIVERSITY OF STARTHCLYDE launched the programme "Rehabilitation", which is analogous to the second part of our programme – "Prosthetics".

There is no country in the world, where would exist the education in the sphere of Bionics, therefore Latvia is a pioneer in this sphere.The professional Master diploma of Bionics and Prosthetics are unique in the

whole world and may receive not only 100% international recognition but also to become the example of contemporary development of education.

The academic Master programme "Bionics" functions already since 1992, but since 1998 – the programme "Bionics and Prosthetics". Parallely since 1997 there is carried out training in the professional programme of engineers "Bionics and Prosthetics". In connection with that there are written monographs, textbooks and practical recommendations.

The professional Master programme "Bionics and Prosthetics" is sufficiently provided with literature and other information materials (Appendix No 1).

Shortcomings of the programme:- insufficient quantity of specific equipment does not provide each student with

the set of prosthetic equipment according to contemporary requirements;- impossible to obtain all the latest prosthetic and orthosis constructions

because of insufficient financing.

Advantages of the programme:- use of modern technologies and equipment in the study process;- participation of the students in prosthetics of real patients;- highly qualified personnel with certificates of the leading world manufacturers

(OTTO BOCK), which certify the qualification;

Realisation of the programme is ensured by highly qualified full-time academic staff. In LAP and ITC there work full-time 1 habilitated doctor of engineering, 1 doctor of engineering and 1 assistant. Their proportion is 0.46 per cent of the whole number of RTU teaching staff. The teaching staff is constantly improving the qualification by carrying out scientific research, participating in seminars, international conferences, courses and collaborating with foreign universities.

The self-evaluation report was considered and adopted 18.10.2001

Commission for Accreditation Administration

Chairman /prof. E. Dukendjiev/

Members /prof. J.Aivars/

/prof. H.Voskis/

/V.Mihnovich/

/T.Ogurcova/

Addendums and explanations

Exhibit CONTENTS

Exhibit 1 STUDY PROGRAMMEExhibit 2 ANNATATION OF STUDY SUBJECTS.Exhibit 3 CV OF ACADEMIC STUFF 0F THE PROGRAM.

Requirements for evaluation of study programmes in compliance with the Regulations No 370 of the Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Latvia

(Prot. No 63, 4§) as of November 28, 1995. Issued in compliance with the Article 9 of the Law on Higher Education and Article 9 of Transition Regulations

19. The following should be submitted for evaluation (by attaching the comparison with at least two state recognised universities of the European Union, chosen by the university to be accredited):19.1. description of the study programme and its lecture courses, practical activities, seminars etc (see appendix 1 and 2);19.2. promotional and informative materials about the possibilities to study (see Self-evaluation, page 20);19.3. information about the duration of studies and the volume of subjects (see Self-evaluation, page 12);19.4. proportion of the subjects of general academic education, basic subjects for obtaining of the professional qualification and optional subjects (see Self-evaluation, page 16);19.5. comparison of the duration of elaboration of diploma projects, qualification projects, master projects and doctor's dissertations (see Self-evaluation, page 19);19.6. perspective evaluation of the study programme from the aspect of the interests of the Republic of Latvia (see Self-evaluation, page 19);

19.7. development plan of the study programme (see Self-evaluation, page 33);19.8. information about the material resources of the study programme, sources of its financing, study fee, possibilities to receive various loans, allowances and scholarships (see Self-evaluation, page 23);19.9. information about the methodical and material-technical resources of the study programme (see Self-evaluation, page 23);19.10. documents about the management of the study programme, which ensure its effective functioning, certify that in the management of implementation of the study programme there are observed principles of democracy, and clearly establish the mutual relations of the representatives of administration, academic personnel and students (see Self-evaluation, page 27);19.11. information about qualification and professionalism of the academic personnel (see Self-evaluation, page 28 and Appendix 4 – CVs of the professors of "Bionics and Prosthetics" subjects; CVs of the professors of humanities and other subjects may be found in the RTU personnel department at Kaļķu Street 1);19.12. documents, which reflect the level of the scientific research (existing and planned), connected with the study programme. First there should be regarded the scientific research, carried out by the basic work employees of the educational establishment (see Self-evaluation, page 28);19.13. information about the cooperation of the structural units of the university in realisation of separate blocks of the study programme (i.e., does the different courses not recur, how they ensure the background for further acquiring of the courses, etc.) (see Self-evaluation, page 20; more detailed information about cooperation of the structural units may be obtained in the Study Department of RTU);19.14. information about the system of knowledge evaluation during examinations and other tests (see Self-evaluation, page 20);19.15. information about organisation of elaboration of students' practice, laboratory works, qualification works, diploma projects etc. (see Self-evaluation, page 20);19.16. information about ensuring the possibility for each student to chose the academic education in each of such blocks (their total volume may not be less than 20 percent from the total volume of the study programme) (see Self-evaluation, page 21; more detailed information may be obtained in the Study Department of RTU);19.17. information about the eventual students (see Self-evaluation, page 22; more detailed information may be obtained in the Study Department of RTU).

Study program “Bionics and Prosthetics”

Study level: Training for Master DegreeNominal duration of the study: 2 yearsTraining volume: 80 CPAcquired qualification: M. Sc. of Bionics and Prosthetics

№ Title of subject CP hours lk pr lb

A. OBLIGATORY SUBJECTS OF TRAINING 30 CP

1 Philosophical and methodological basis of bionics 3 64 42 Human bionics 2 32 23 Zoomorphic robotics 3 64 44 Human biomechanics 3 64 45 Animal biomechanics 3 64 46 Comparative entomology 3 64 47 Building of prostheses and prosthetics for human’s 4 64 48 Design of Prostheses 3 80 4 19 Prosthetics and Orthotics for Children’s 2 32 210 Spatial mechanisms and system theory 2 64 411 Equipment and methods of clinical biomechanics 2 32 2

B. SUBJECTS OF LIMITED OPTION 20 CP

1 Profile Subjects 8 CP

1.1 Corporative anatomy end physiology of vertebrates 3 64 41.2 Corporative anatomy end physiology of non-vertebrates 2 48 31.3 Aerobionics 3 48 31.4 Hydrobionics 3 48 31.5 Control and Correction of movements by means of

electrostimulations2 32 2

2. Humanities/Social subjects 4 CP2.1 Sociology of business 2 32 1 12.2 Sociology of organization 2 32 1 12.3 Ethics of science and technology 2 32 1 1

3. Subjects of management and economy 4 CP

3.1 Economy of Entrepreneurship 4 64 2 23.2 Market research for new products 2 32 1 13.3 Legal regulations of enterprising 2 32 23.4 Planning of Enterprises 2 32 1 1

№ Title of subject CP hours lk pr lb

4. Pedagogic subjects 4 CP4.1 Human Psychology (for masters) 2 32 1 14.2 Human Pedagogies (for masters) 2 32 1 14.3 Psychology of Relationships 2 32 1 1

C. LANGUAGES 6 CP1 English 6 64 42 German 6 64 4

D. SUBJECTS OF FREE OPTION 0 CP

E. PRACTICE/PRACTICAL WORK 6 CP1 Practical Work 6

F. QUALIFICATION WORK 18 CP1 Master work 18

Total: 80 CP / 1040 hours

COMPULSORY SUBJECTS

1. Philosophical methodological basis of BionicsEvgeniy Dukendjiev, Prof. Dr. hab.Regards the selected methods and appliances for investigation of human movements, kenematic scheme of the structure of human bone-joint system, its metrics.

2. Human Bionics.Evgeniy Dukendjiev, Prof. Dr. hab.The course aims at learning the current knowledge in the human bioenergetics; the structure of fields, mechanisms of energetic-informative transformations, selective principles in physiology and biochemistry. The description of the continuous interaction between the human organism and external environment based on the theory "Description of the world" from prof. E. Dukendzijev. In the special part the key subjects are; the deformation of the human’s biofield in trauma, in jury and shock; inherent potentialities of rehabilitation.

1. Zoomorphous roboticsEvgeniy Dukendjiev, Prof. Dr. hab.Models animals with the aim to create specialised robots. Gives general classification of manipulator organs, mechanisms and systems, with the aim to move in a space.

2. Human biomechanicsEvgeniy Dukendjiev, Prof. Dr. hab.Acquires some concepts of biomechanics, which are used in anthropomorphic robotics – in human and android motion system. Structural-kenematic scheme. Spinal biomechanics.

3. Animal biomechanicsEvgeniy Dukendjiev, Prof. Dr. hab.The subject teaches about animal mechanisms and systems for manipulating with objects and for movement in a space. Gives some concepts of robotics, which are used in biomechanics.

4. Comparative entomologyValdemārs Spuņģis, Assist.Prof. Dr.Teaches the subject of entomology, functional morphology of adult insects – general constitution, head, antennae, oral apparatus, breast, wings, legs, stomach, sound organs etc.

5. Manufacturing of prosthetic appliances and human prostheticsEvgeniy Dukendjiev, Prof. Dr. hab.In the first part of the course, based on the bionic analysis of human local, regional and global kenematic chains, models anthropomorphic mechanisms, which in a certain way regenerate and improve lost functions of the segments of supportive, movement and manipulation system. In the second part of the course the general calculation methods of arm, leg prosthetic appliances, orthoses, compensatory appliances, etc. are acquired.

6. Designing of prosthetic appliancesEvgeniy Dukendjiev, Prof. Dr. hab.Based on the analysis of human local, regional and global kenematic chains, the anthropomorphic mechanisms are modelled, which in certain place regenerate and improve lost functions of the segments of supportive, movement and manipulation system. Given general calculation methods of arm, leg prosthetic appliances, orthoses, compensatory appliances, etc.

7. Children’s prosthetics and orthotics.Evgeniy Dukendjiev, Prof. Dr. hab.The key subjects of the course are development of the skeletal structures during ontogenesis; the typical peculiarities of the children’s stamp of the amputated arm or leg; the specific surgery methods for adaptation of stamp to prosthetic appliance, the general principles of the orthotic help (corresponding to type of skeletal deformations).

8. Theory of spatial mechanisms and systemsJānis Rudņevs, Assist. Prof. Dr.

Teaches the main spatially controllable mechanism and system. Analyses the main functional constituent parts – executive mechanisms, drive sensory system and control system.

9. Control and correction of movement electro-stimulationEvgeniy Dukendjiev, Prof. Dr. hab.The course aims at learning the basic knowledge of physiological and artificial control of muscle contraction and artificial activation of muscles using programmed multi-channel electro-stimulation. The main subjects are: the methods for artificial control of muscle activity; the correction of movement during hypokinesia, hypodinamia and sports exercises. The key issues are the methods for correction of locomotor activities.

SUBJECTS OF THE LIMITED OPTION

B. 1. Subjects of the programme

9. Comparative anatomy and physiology of vertebrate animalsJuris Aivars, Prof. Dr. hab.Classifies chord-like and vertebrate animals, teaches the features of chord-like animals which are transferred to vertebrate animals. Development peculiarities of birds and higher animals.

10. Comparative anatomy and physiology of invertebratesNora Švinka, Prof. Dr. hab.Comparative anatomy and physiology of invertebrates analyses types of nervous systems, regulatory mechanisms, skeleton types, adaptation to the environment. From the aspect of Bionics there are analysed unicellular and multicellular origins and main tendencies of development.

11. Aero-BionicsEvgeniy Dukendjiev, Prof. Dr. hab.Acquires the common features of flying animals as the portrayal of their morphology and functions. Comparatively analyses flight of insects and vertebrate animals, in order to create new constructions of mechanism and wing apparatus.

12. Hydro-BionicsEvgeniy Dukendjiev, Prof. Dr. hab.Acquires functionally-morphological peculiarities of large hydrobions, non-standard floatation kenematics and dynamics. Considers bioenergetic aspects of searching, dolphin and pressure self-regulation, metatarsi resilience and stroke movement efficiency of cetacean animals.

Control and correction of movement electro-stimulation.Viktor Mihnovich, MasterThe course covers the basic knowledge about the control of contractions of skeletal muscles, by using programmed multi-channel appliances of electro-stimulation. Sets out the principles and methods of automatic management of standard motion acts, as well as the methods of initiating artificial muscle activity, which is similar to natural. Special part of the course analyses the possibilities of movement control in normal and specific conditions - hypokinesia, hypodinamia, sports. The aim of the practical work of the course – to acquire the hardware and skills of movement control.

B. 2. Languages

English for Practical EngineersAnna Rotanova, Assist. Prof. Dr.Perfection and consolidation of foreign languages knowledge of secondary education. Development of the language skills of future specialists for professional needs.

German for Practical EngineersLarisa Rozenberga, lecturer.Perfection and consolidation of foreign languages knowledge of secondary education. Development of the language skills of future specialists for professional needs.

B. 3. Humanities / social subjects

SW1. Business sociologyValerijs Kunickis, Assistant ProfessorIn the framework of study course "Business Sociology" the author analyses the main social preconditions and regularities of business and entrepreneurial activity, the role and development of business as a social institution of society.

2. Legal regulation of businessConcept of legal transactions and their participants. Contents and form of legal transactions. Main conditions for conclusion of contracts. Liabilities and claims form illegal activity. Offence as the basis of civil liability. Degrees of offence.

B. 4. Subjects of economy and management

Economics of EntrepreneurshipZoja Sundukova, Assist. Prof. Dr.The subject includes the following problems of evaluation of industrial and financial resources: capital assets, capital financial investments; evaluation of buildings and equipment, revaluation, amortization, retirement, evaluation methods of floating assets, industrial cost value calculation, calculation of variable cost, cost value calculation of the industrial process, consolidated income statement form, annual report.

1. Marketing of new production

Anatolijs Magidenko, Prof. Dr. hab.Scientific research works and marketing. Market segmentation. Marketing system of consumers and manufacturers.

2. Legal regulation of businessConcept of legal transactions and their participants. Contents and form of legal transactions. Main conditions for conclusion of contracts. Liabilities and claims form illegal activity. Offence as the basis of civil liability. Degrees of offence.

3. Business planningJānis Mežiels, Assist. Prof. Dr.Planning methodology. Standards of plans. Formation of prices, incomes and profit in conditions of market economy. Drawing of a business plan.

B. 5. Pedagoģijas priekšmeti.

1. Psychology (for Masters)Airisa Šteinberga, Assist.Prof. Dr.Basic concepts of psychology. Psychology as a science, main directions. Methods of investigation. Psychic processes. Human behaviour. Personality. Pedagogical communication.

2. Pedagogy (for Masters)Beatrise Garjāne, Assist.Prof. Dr.Pedagogy as a science, its structure. Basic concepts of pedagogy. Didactics. Pedagogical process. Process of studies: content, cognitive activity of the trainee.

3. Psychology of communicationAirisa Šteinberga, Assist.Prof. Dr.Basic concepts, process, elements of communication. Forms of communication. Verbal and nonverbal communication.

OPTIONAL SUBJECTS

PRACTICE / PRACTICAL WORK

Practical workThe course includes two parts. Part one: forming and consolidating the student’s basic skills in the appropriate use of the plaster, plastic, metal; making of details of prosthetic appliances. Part two: the clinical analysis under supervision by certified specialist; making of artificial limbs.

FINAL EXAMINATIONS13. Master project

Elaboration of technical project, determining a phenomenon of organic nature, where is solved the technical task. Choice and investigation of the bio-prototype. 2. Collection and formalisation of obtained data, drawing of functional schemes and determining of regularities. 3. Realisation of the feature determined in the technical task – elaboration of a bionic model (article).Review of literature and patent, biomechanical examination, designing of models, producing and testing of bionic models, economic analysis of the models. 2. Biomechanical diagrams and calculation tables, composition drawing of the articles, full set of drawings of the details of articles.