Real-Time Multirate Filtering of Digitized Torque Signals on Tiva Microcontroller using Fixed-Point Design with MATLAB

Abstract

Correct bone screw torque is critical for positive patient outcomes after orthopaedic surgery. Models of the screwing process have been developed to allow a smart screwdriver to optimise the insertion torque. Experimental data is required to test these models, so a test-rig has been developed. Accurate torque measurement is a key part of the test-rig. An FIR filter was designed for this torque signal, implemented on the test-rig, and compared theoretically and experimentally to a mean filter and to no filtering. The FIR and mean filters both performed well, with the FIR achieving better theoretical results, and the mean filter achieving better experimental results. Better understanding of the noise structure and potential signal distortion would be required to improve the FIR filter or to conclusively compare it against the mean filter, however both perform sufficiently well for this application.

Keywords

• finite impulse response filter
• filter design
• filter implementation
• digital signal processing
• real time computing
• fixed-point