Programmable function generators - II: seven-bar translatory-output mechanism

A translating-output programmable function generator, obtained by adding a RPP dyad to the base triple-crank, five-bar mechanism (FBM), is considered here. The FBM is designed for compactness while avoiding mode singularities and the coupler point selection is based on space utilization ratio. Design variables are identified and issues of generating optimal coupler point trajectories are discussed. Simulation results are presented for minimizing the peak servo acceleration, the peak servo torque and the RMS servo torque. (C) 2003 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved

Cross-Leg Microvascular Free Anterolateral Thigh Flap as a Safe, Viable, and Reserve Option for Reconstruction in a Vessel-Depleted Limb

We present the case of a 36-year-old male patient with a posttraumatic composite defect of the lower two-thirds of the anterior aspect of the left leg with exposed necrotic tibia in an old, neglected type 3b fracture of the tibia of 9-month duration. The options for definitive soft-tissue cover include microvascular free tissue transfer and cross-leg flaps. In trauma cases, the surrounding tissue is usually damaged, and the recipient vessels are frequently implicated, ruling out the use of a microvascular free flap. Cross-leg flaps are unachievable due to large defect sizes and lack of appropriate donor tissue. In this case report, we highlight the use of cross-leg microvascular free anterolateral thigh (ALT) flap cover for the composite leg defect. By presenting our case, we aim to advocate the clinical application of cross-leg free flap surgery in vessel-depleted limbs as a safe and viable option