Traction system for a mobile support device

Abstract

A traction system for a mobile support device, such as a prosthetic foot piece or a crutch, includes a chassis, a latch assembly, and a strap. The chassis is couplable to a distal end of the mobile support device to extend underneath a bottom side of the mobile support device and the latch assembly. The latch assembly includes a front catch and a rear catch, both of which are securable to a top side of the mobile support device, the front catch being closer to the distal end of the mobile support device than the rear catch, and a lever having a front end and a rear end, the front end being releasably latchable to the front catch, the rear end being releasably latchable to the rear catch when the lever is pivoted about the front end of the latch. The strap is secured to the lever and the chassis.

Description

[0001] Cross Reference to Related Applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 004,698, filed April 3, 2020, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The present invention relates generally to traction systems for ambulatory support devices such as prosthetic foot pieces or crutches. BACKGROUND

[0004] Ambulatory support devices such as crutches and prosthetic legs and feet are used to provide support, stability, and mobility. A prosthetic foot piece is a special prosthetic that can be connected to a prosthetic leg and is typically elongated in a curved profile that terminates in a distal portion that functions as a foot. For example, athletes, in particular, use prosthetic foot pieces configured to elastically bend and flex during running. Similarly, some crutches have a distal portion that functions as a foot. Traction and cushioning requirements vary for different terrains, walking, or running surfaces. Moreover, traction and cushioning requirements can vary for running distances. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0005] The drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only and are meant to be illustrative, not limiting of the scope of the disclosure.

[0006] Figure 1 is a partial perspective exploded view of a prosthetic foot piece and a traction system for the prosthetic foot piece, including a foot plate, a strap, and a latch assembly, with the latch assembly in an unlocked state.

[0007] Figure 2 is a perspective view of a traction system coupled to a prosthetic foot piece, shown in partial view, with the latch assembly in a partially latched state.

[0008] Figure 3 is a perspective view of a traction system coupled to a prosthetic foot piece, shown in partial view, with the latch assembly in a latched state.

[0009] Figure 4 is a perspective view of a prosthetic foot piece.

[0010] Figure 5 is a partial cross-sectional view of a foot plate secured to a prosthetic foot piece taken along line 5-5 in Figure 2

[0011] Figure 6 is a perspective view of a crutch for use with any of the traction systems herein.

[0012] Figure 7 is a perspective side view of a latch assembly.

[0013] ​Figure 8 is a plan view of the latching assembly.

[0014] Figure 9 is a rear perspective view of a first latching body of the latching assembly.

[0015] Figure 10 is Figure 4 a rear perspective view of a second latching body of the latching assembly of

[0016] Figure 11 is a bottom perspective view of the latching cap.

[0017] Figure 12 is a plan view of the first latching body, with the biasing member shown in cross-section, and a tension adjustment device for the strap.

[0018] Figure 13 is a bottom perspective view of the front and rear catches of the latching assembly.

[0019] Figure 14 is a perspective view of the bottom of the latching base of the latching assembly.

[0020] Figure 15 is a bottom perspective view of the bottom plate.

[0021] Figure 16 is a bottom perspective view of the bottom plate secured to the prosthetic foot piece shown in partial view.

[0022] Figure 17 is Figure 1 a bottom perspective view of the outsole of the traction system of

[0023] Figure 18 is a bottom perspective view of the cleat plate and cleats as a substitute for the outsole of the traction system of Figure 1

[0024] Figure 19 is a partial exploded view of the prosthetic foot piece and sole structure of Figure 1 with a substitute outsole.

[0025] Figure 20 is a partial exploded view of the prosthetic foot piece and sole structure of Figure 1 with the cleat plate and cleats as a substitute for the midsole and outsole of Figure 1

[0026] Figure 21 is a partial perspective exploded view of a prosthetic foot piece and a substitute traction system for the prosthetic foot piece, including a bottom plate, a strap, and a latching assembly, with the latching assembly in an unlocked state.

[0027] Figure 22 is Figure 21 ​​Perspective view of the lever, connecting ring, and strap of the latching assembly of the prosthetic foot of

[0028] Figure 23 is a prosthetic foot Figure 21 Partial perspective view of the traction system of

[0029] Figure 24 is a prosthetic foot Figure 21 Perspective view of the traction system of

[0030] Figure 25 is a prosthetic foot

[0031] Figure 26 is a prosthetic foot

[0032] Figure 27 is a prosthetic foot

[0033] Figure 28 is a prosthetic foot Figure 27 Plan view of the second latching body of the lever of the latching assembly of

[0034] Figure 29 is a prosthetic foot Figure 27 Perspective view of the first latching body of the lever of the latching assembly of

[0035] Figure 30 is a prosthetic foot Figure 27 Plan view of the latching mount of the latching assembly of

[0036] Figure 31 is a prosthetic foot Figure 27 Plan view of the third latching body of the latching assembly of

[0037] Figure 32 is a prosthetic foot, a floor of a traction system extending below the prosthetic foot, and a mount extending from the floor through a hole in the prosthetic foot

[0038] Figure 33 is a prosthetic foot Figure 32 Bottom perspective partial view of the prosthetic foot and floor of

[0039] Figure 34 is a prosthetic foot, a floor of a traction system extending below the prosthetic foot, and a mount extending from the floor through a hole in the prosthetic foot

[0040] Figure 35 isFigure 34 Bottom perspective partial view of prosthetic foot piece and bottom plate.

[0041] Figure 36 Top perspective partial view of prosthetic foot piece, bottom plate of traction system extending below prosthetic foot piece, and latch assembly including latch mount secured to top side of prosthetic foot piece and lever latched to latch mount.

[0042] Figure 37 Exploded side view of traction system for prosthetic foot piece including knob and tether for knob.

[0043] Figure 38 Top perspective view of traction system of Figure 37 fixed to prosthetic piece shown in phantom.

[0044] Figure 39 Top perspective partial view of prosthetic foot piece and traction system of Figure 38 with alternate tether for knob.

[0045] Figure 40 Perspective exploded top view of prosthetic foot piece and bottom plate of traction system including angled threaded tool and knob securable to the tool shown in partial view.

[0046] Figure 41 Perspective exploded bottom view of prosthetic foot piece and bottom plate of Figure 40 showing angled threaded tool.

[0047] Figure 42 Partial perspective top view of prosthetic foot piece having knob mount and knob secured to the mount.

[0048] Figure 43 Partial cross-sectional view taken along line 43-43 in Figure 42 showing knob mount and tethered knob.

[0049] Figure 44 Top perspective partial view of prosthetic foot piece having internally threaded boss for fastener.

[0050] Figure 45 Partial cross-sectional view taken along line 45-45 in Figure 44 showing fastener extending through boss and securing bottom plate to prosthetic foot piece.

[0051] Figure 46 Rear perspective partial view of prosthetic foot piece with rear hook.

[0052] Figure 47 Rear perspective partial view of prosthetic foot piece with rear hook. Figure 46is a partial rear perspective view of a prosthetic foot piece with a bottom plate secured to the prosthetic foot piece at a rear hook.

[0053] Figure 48 is a top perspective partial view of a prosthetic foot piece having a castellated side surface.

[0054] Figure 49 is Figure 48 a top perspective partial view of a prosthetic foot piece with a bottom plate secured to the prosthetic foot piece with a lacing.

[0055] Figure 50 is a top partial view of a bottom plate for a prosthetic foot piece.

[0056] Figure 51 is Figure 50 a partial side view of a bottom plate.

[0057] Figure 52 is a partial side view of a prosthetic foot piece configured for use with Figure 50-51 a bottom plate.

[0058] Figure 53 is a top partial view of an alternate bottom plate for a prosthetic foot piece of Figure 52 .

[0059] Figure 54 is Figure 53 a partial side view of a bottom plate.

[0060] Figure 55 is a rear perspective view of a prosthetic foot piece having a latching assembly.

[0061] Figure 56 is a front perspective view of a bottom plate of a prosthetic foot piece configured to latch to Figure 55 .

[0062] Figure 57 is Figure 55 a rear perspective view of a prosthetic foot piece, Figure 56 with a bottom plate of latched thereon.

[0063] Figure 58 is a rear view of a prosthetic foot piece with a bottom plate latched thereon by a latching assembly.

[0064] Figure 59 is a front view of a prosthetic foot piece with a bottom plate latched thereon by a latching assembly.

[0065] Figure 60 is a partial rear perspective view of a prosthetic foot piece.

[0066] Figure 61 is a front perspective view of a bottom plate of a prosthetic foot piece configured to secure to Figure 60 .

[0067] Figure 62 is a top perspective view of a prosthetic foot piece of Figure 60 is a bottom perspective view of a prosthetic foot piece of Figure 61 is a bottom perspective view of a prosthetic foot piece of

[0068] Figure 63 is a partial perspective view of a prosthetic foot piece in an unloaded state and a traction system coupled to the prosthetic foot piece, the traction system including a surrogate latch assembly in a latched state.

[0069] Figure 64 is a perspective view of a latch mount of a latch assembly of Figure 63 including a cover over an anchor portion of a latch base.

[0070] Figure 65 is a partial perspective view of a prosthetic foot piece and a latch assembly of Figure 63 wherein the prosthetic foot piece is in a relatively unloaded state.

[0071] Figure 66 is a partial perspective view of a prosthetic foot piece and a latch assembly of Figure 63 wherein the prosthetic foot piece is in a relatively loaded state.

[0072] Figure 67 is a cross-sectional view of a latch mount of Figure 64 taken along line 67-67 in Figure 64 .

[0073] Figure 68 is an exploded view of a latch base, compressible layer, and double-sided tape included in a latch mount of Figure 67 .

[0074] Figure 69 is a plan view of a latch base of Figure 68 .

[0075] Figure 70 is a plan view of a surrogate latch base.

[0076] Figure 71 is a plan view of a surrogate latch base.

[0077] Figure 72 is a partial perspective view of a prosthetic foot piece and a traction system of Figure 63 wherein the latch assembly is in a latched position and includes an adhesive mechanically securing an anchor portion of the latch base to the prosthetic foot piece in a first arrangement.

[0078] Figure 73 is a partial perspective view of a prosthetic foot piece and a traction system of Figure 63 including Figure 70An alternative latch base, wherein the latch assembly is in the latched position, and in the second arrangement includes an adhesive that mechanically secures the anchoring portion of the latch base to the prosthetic footplate.

[0079] Figure 74 yes Figure 63 Partial perspective views of the prosthetic footplate and traction system, including Figure 71 An alternative latch base, wherein the latch assembly is in the latched position, and includes an adhesive that mechanically secures the anchoring portion of the latch base to the prosthetic footplate.

[0080] Figure 75 yes Figure 63 Prosthetic foot and Figure 67 and 68 A schematic perspective partial view of the latch mount shows the steps of placing the latch mount on the prosthetic footplate.

[0081] Figure 76 yes Figure 63 A schematic perspective partial view of a prosthetic footpiece, showing how tape is pressed against the footpiece to... Figure 75 Another step is to secure the latching device to the prosthetic footplate.

[0082] Figure 77 yes Figure 63 A schematic perspective partial view of the prosthetic footplate, showing how the anchoring portion of the latch body is mechanically secured to the prosthetic footplate using adhesive. Figure 75 Another step involves securing the latch mount to the prosthetic footplate, with the hand shown in dashed lines.

[0083] Figure 78 yes Figure 63 A schematic perspective partial view of the prosthetic footplate shows how the anchoring portion of the latch body is further mechanically secured to the prosthetic footplate by applying adhesive along the edge of the anchoring portion. Figure 75 Another step is to secure the latching device to the prosthetic footplate.

[0084] Figure 79 It is used for Figure 80 A plan view of the alternative latch base for the latch assembly.

[0085] Figure 80 yes Figure 63 A partial perspective view of the prosthetic footplate and traction system, including the latch assembly in the latched position, wherein... Figure 79 The alternative latch base is fixed to the prosthetic footplate.

[0086] Figure 81 It is used for Figure 82 A plan view of an alternative latch mount for the latch assembly, including a separate latch base showing a front latch and a rear latch.

[0087] Figure 82 is Figure 63 a partial perspective view of a prosthetic foot piece and a traction system of Figure 81 an alternative latch base is secured to the prosthetic foot piece. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0088] The present disclosure generally relates to traction systems for mobile support devices such as prosthetic foot pieces and crutches. More specifically, the traction systems disclosed herein releasably attach to a mobile support device so as to be securely held on the mobile support device during use and to be relatively easily and quickly removable to allow for use of different traction systems, for example, for different activities or on different ground surfaces.

[0089] In an example traction system for a mobile support device, the traction system can include a chassis that is couplable to a distal end of the mobile support device to extend under a bottom side of the mobile support device. The traction system can also include a latch assembly having a front catch and a rear catch, both of which are securable to a top side of the mobile support device, the front catch being closer to the distal end of the mobile support device than the rear catch. The latch assembly can include a lever having a front end and a rear end, the front end being releasably latchable to the front catch, the rear end being releasably latchable to the rear catch when the lever is pivoted about the front end of the latch. Such a latch assembly can be referred to as an off-center pull latch. The traction system can include a strap secured to the lever and the chassis, the strap being in a tensioned state when the chassis is coupled to the distal end of the mobile support device and the lever is latched at the front and rear ends. The strap pulls the chassis toward the distal end and the bottom side of the mobile support device. Other underlayers can be secured to the chassis to provide a ground engaging surface, or the chassis itself can provide the ground engaging surface. The particular mobile support devices through which any of the traction systems disclosed herein can be implemented include prosthetic foot pieces and certain crutches (e.g., crutches having an elongate member with a curved distal portion having a distal end and serving as a foot).

[0090] Other example features of the mobile support device traction systems disclosed herein can include a strap extending through the lever between the front end and the rear end. For example, the lever can have opposing sidewalls, each having an aperture disposed between the front end and the rear end. The strap can extend through the lever at the apertures. In a different example latch assembly, a loop can be secured to the lever rearward of the front end, and the strap can extend through the loop. In another example, the strap can be secured to the bottom side of the chassis between the chassis and at least one underlayer (e.g., a midsole and / or an outsole) that is also secured to the bottom side of the chassis and includes a ground engaging traction surface.

[0091] The chassis can include certain features, such as a front wall disposed forward of a distal end of the mobile support when the chassis is secured to the mobile support and a toe extending rearward from the front wall over a top side of the mobile support. The front wall and the toe act as a front end barrier to properly position the mobile support on the chassis during attachment. In addition, a bottom wall of the chassis can be sufficiently flexible to move from a relatively flat state to a relatively curved state to conform to a curvature of a bottom side of the mobile support when the strap is in a tensioned state. Thus, when the traction assembly is latched to the mobile support, the chassis will be in a tensioned state, thereby reducing the likelihood of any rattling of the chassis relative to the mobile support and associated clicking noises. The chassis can also include integral side clips that extend around opposing sides of the mobile support and over the top side of the mobile support when the chassis is coupled to the mobile support. The side clips can provide sufficient clamping force to retain the chassis on the mobile support even when the latching assembly is unlocked. The bottom of the chassis can also include a recess at which the strap is secured to the chassis such that the strap is partially housed in the recess.

[0092] In another aspect, the latching assembly can include a latching base securable to a top side of the mobile support, a front lock and a rear lock secured to the latching base. The latching base can be adhered or otherwise secured to the mobile support, and the locks can be fastened to the latching base. The latching base can be relatively thin to enable some flexing of the underlying mobile support and to avoid adding rigidity to the mobile support. In some examples, the latching base can be configured as a plate, such as a composite plate. In addition, the latching base can have a greater surface area than if the locks were attached directly to the mobile support, thereby providing a greater bonding surface area to spread the tensile forces of the strap widely. For example, a portion of the latching base can extend forward of the front lock along the top side of the mobile support. The latching base can also extend farther rearward than the rear lock and laterally outward of the locks.

[0093] Because the top side of the mobile support is subjected to compressive stresses during dynamic loading of the mobile support, such as when the wearer moves forward with the mobile support in contact with the ground, the latching base can be configured to reduce the compressive and shear stresses generated on the latching base as compared to a latching base having a uniform width and / or flexibility along its length. In an example, the latching base can include a plate portion, an anchor portion, and a hinge portion flexibly connecting the plate portion and the anchor portion. The front lock and the rear lock can be secured to the plate portion. The anchor portion can be fixed relative to the top side of the mobile support when the latching base is secured to the mobile support, and the hinge portion can be disposed over the top side of the mobile support and not fixed to the top side of the mobile support. For example, the hinge portion can be relatively flexible and / or soft.

[0094] Because the latching base is disposed on the top side of the mobile support device, it will be compressed during longitudinal flexing of the mobile support device, such as when loaded by a wearer during use. This configuration of the latching base is more easily compressed because the hinge portion is not fixed to the top side of the mobile support device (e.g., floats above it) as the mobile support device flexes (e.g., bends along its length) during use. The hinge portion can easily respond to the flexing, thereby reducing resistance to compression and associated shear forces on the latching base, as compared to a latching base configured as a flat plate along its entire length (e.g., without a hinge portion).

[0095] The hinge portion can be at least partially spaced apart from the top side of the mobile support device when the mobile support device is in a relatively unloaded state. In an example, the hinge portion can be sufficiently flexible such that it moves from the spaced apart position into contact with the top side of the mobile support device.

[0096] In an example, the hinge portion can be either or both of narrower and thinner than the plate portion and the anchor portion. Further, the anchor portion can be shorter than the plate portion. These features increase flexibility and reduce compressive stresses experienced by the latching base. The relatively narrow hinge portion (i.e., transverse width along the width of the mobile support device) facilitates flexibility and relative movement of the plate portion and the anchor portion.

[0097] The hinge portion can include only a single strip connecting the plate portion and the anchor portion, or can include two or more strips laterally spaced apart from one another and connecting the plate portion and the anchor portion.

[0098] The latching base can include a composite material, such as at least one of a carbon fiber composite material or a glass fiber composite material. In an example, the latching base includes layers of the composite material, with fewer layers in the hinge portion resulting in greater flexibility thereof. For example, the latching base can include at least one layer of composite sheet material in the hinge portion, and more layers of composite sheet material in the anchor portion and the plate portion.

[0099] When the latching base is secured to the mobile support device, the hinge portion can extend rearward from the plate portion over the top side of the mobile support device, and the anchor portion can be disposed rearward of the hinge portion.

[0100] In an implementation, a compressible layer can be secured to the bottom side of the plate portion, and disposed on the top side of the mobile support device when the latching base is secured to the mobile support device. For example, the compressible layer can include a foam. The compressible layer allows the plate portion to effectively float over the top side of the mobile support device because the compressible layer can elastically compress during longitudinal flexing of the mobile support device, thereby minimizing compressive forces of the mobile support device that are transferred to the plate portion.

[0101] In an embodiment, the compressible layer can not be secured to the top side of the mobile support device and is held against the top side of the mobile support device by tension in the strap when the lever is latched. For example, there can be no adhesive, fastener, or other securing feature to secure the compressible layer to the top side, only the tensioned strap holds the compressible layer against the top side. Alternatively, the compressible layer can be secured to the top side of the mobile support device to further secure the latching base to the mobile support device. In an example, a double-sided adhesive layer can be disposed between the compressible layer and the top side of the mobile support device when the latching base is secured to the mobile support device.

[0102] In an aspect, the mount can have a through-hole that extends through the latching base and the adhesive can extend through the through-hole and over at least a portion of the top surface of the latching base when the latching base is secured to the mobile support device. The adhesive can extend on the bottom side of the latching base, such as between the latching base and the top side of the mobile support device. Because the adhesive extends not only between the bottom side of the latching base and the top side of the mobile support device, but also through the latching base and onto the top surface of the latching base, when the adhesive is cured or in a final state it has a structure that functions as a mechanical attachment, such as a fastener or end stop.

[0103] For example, in a configuration of the latching base with an anchor portion, the through-hole can extend through the anchor portion. In another aspect, the adhesive can extend between the anchor portion and the top side of the mobile support device and around the outer edge of the anchor portion when the latching base is secured to the mobile support device. For example, the adhesive can thus function as a mechanical end stop at the outer edge of the anchor portion. The outer edge can include a top edge and side edges, thus the adhesive forms a three-sided or T-shaped stop. In some examples, a cover can be secured over the anchor portion. The cover can be used to improve aesthetics, for example by covering the adhesive.

[0104] In an example, the latching base can be a flat plate along its entire length, or can be a latching base with the flexible hinge portion, and at least some of the through-holes can be disposed forward of the front lock catch and / or at least some of the through-holes can be disposed rearward of the rear lock catch. Similar to the through-holes in the anchor portion, the through-holes disposed in these locations enable the adhesive to function as a mechanical stop. In an aspect, the adhesive can be disposed along the front edge of the latching base forward of the front lock catch and / or along the rear edge of the latching base rearward of the rear lock catch when the latching base is secured to the mobile support device.

[0105] In an embodiment, the latch base can include a front section and a rear section, a rear edge of the front section being separated from a front edge of the rear section. Dividing the latch base with such a transverse split reduces the length of each section of the latch base divided by the split that extends along the length of the mobile support device. For example, dividing the latch base effectively divides the latch base from a configuration of a relatively long plate into two or more shorter plates. This, for example, reduces the compressive forces on each such section of the latch base during dynamic loading of the mobile support device.

[0106] A traction system for a mobile support device can include a latch assembly operable to latch a floor panel to a distal end of the mobile support device. The latch assembly can include a latch base securable to a top side of the mobile support device. The latch base can include a plate portion, an anchor portion, and a hinge portion flexibly connecting the plate portion and the anchor portion. When the latch base is secured to the mobile support device, the anchor portion can be secured relative to the top side of the mobile support device, and the hinge portion can be disposed above the top side of the mobile support device and not secured to the top side of the mobile support device.

[0107] Various latch assemblies are disclosed herein. In an example, a latch assembly, a front catch can define a front pocket opening facing a rear catch, and the rear catch can define a rear pocket opening facing the front catch. A front end of a lever can include a front lip captured in the front pocket when the front end is latched to the front catch, and a rear end of the lever can include a rear lip captured in the rear pocket when the rear end is latched to the rear catch. The latch assembly can bias the front end and the rear end apart from each other (e.g., along a length of the mobile support device) to help retain the ends in the respective catches when latched. For example, the lever can include a first latch body including the front end of the lever and a second latch body coupled to the first latch body and including the rear end of the lever. The second latch body can cover a majority of the first latch body and thus can be referred to as a latch cover. A biasing member, such as a compression spring, can engage the first latch body and the second latch body and bias the front end away from the rear end, where the front end is movable toward the rear end to release the lever from the rear catch under an opposing force (e.g., a force applied by a user) to the force of the biasing member. Such a latch assembly can be referred to as a spring-loaded, off-center pull latch. The lever can include a handle protruding from the rear end to facilitate releasing the lever.

[0108] In one embodiment, the first latch body can include an intermediate wall disposed rearward of the front end, the second latch body can include a protrusion disposed between the front end and the intermediate wall, and the biasing member can be disposed between the rear end and the intermediate wall, biasing the intermediate wall against the protrusion. To further interconnect the first and second latch bodies, the first latch body can have a side wall, and the second latch body can have a side wall disposed adjacent to (e.g., on an outside of) the side wall of the first latch body. The side wall of one of the first and second latch bodies can include a flange, and the side wall of the other of the first and second latch bodies can include a slot, the flange fitting within the slot.

[0109] The strap can be relatively inelastic so that a strong tension is created in the strap that pulls the floor panel securely toward the underside of the mobile support device. To fine tune the tension in the strap, the traction system can include an adjustment screw that extends longitudinally within the lever and is connected to the strap. The position of the adjustment screw can be adjusted to adjust the tension in the strap.

[0110] Another example traction system for a mobile support device includes a floor panel couplable to a distal end of a mobile support device to extend under an underside of the mobile support device, an eccentric pull latch assembly having a catch securable to a top side of the mobile support device and having a lever releasably latched to the catch, and a strap secured to the lever and to the floor panel, the strap being in tension when the floor panel is coupled to the distal end of the mobile support device and the lever is latched to the catch, the strap pulling the floor panel toward the distal end and the underside of the mobile support device.

[0111] Other example mobile support device traction systems use attachment systems other than latches. For example, a traction system for a mobile support device can include a floor panel couplable to a distal end of a mobile support device to extend under an underside of the mobile support device, and further include an attachment system including a threaded post extending from the floor panel and a knob securable to an end of the threaded post. The mobile support device can define a through hole extending through the mobile support device from the underside to the top side of the mobile support device. When the floor panel is coupled to the distal end of the mobile support device, the threaded post can extend through the through hole, and when the knob is secured to the threaded post, the floor panel is held against the underside of the mobile support device. In one example, a boss can extend from the top side of the mobile support device, the through hole can extend through the boss, and a longitudinal axis of the through hole is at an acute angle to the top side of the mobile support device.

[0112] For convenience, the traction system can include various features to retain the knob to the mobile support device even when the knob is not secured to the threaded post. For example, the traction system can include a tether that is secured to the knob and is securable to a top side of the mobile support device to secure the knob to the mobile support device. In another example, the traction system is configured such that the knob is a captive knob. A boss can extend from the top side of the mobile support device, and a through hole can extend through the boss. The knob can be retained by the boss whether or not the knob is secured to the end of the threaded lever. For example, the knob can fit through the through hole, but the handle of the knob can have a flange that is larger than the through hole to retain the knob on the boss.

[0113] The above-mentioned and other features and advantages of this teaching will be apparent from the following detailed description of a mode for implementing this teaching, when taken in conjunction with the drawings. It will be understood that even though the examples can be described in connection with the drawings, the individual features can be combined in additional examples.

[0114] Referring to the drawings, wherein like numerals refer to like components throughout the several views, Figure 1 A mobile support device 10 and a traction system 12 are shown, with the traction system 12 shown detached from the mobile support device 10. In the example shown, the mobile support device 10 is particularly a prosthetic foot piece 10, and is referred to as such herein. It will be appreciated that any traction system disclosed herein for a prosthetic foot piece is equally applicable to a crutch having an elongate member with a distal portion, such as Figure 6 crutch 10A in U.S. Patent No. 9, 1 1 1, 1 1 1.

[0115] The traction system 12 includes a chassis 14, at least one latch assembly 16, and at least one strap 18. The chassis 14 can also be referred to as a base or tray and forms a portion of a sole structure 20. As described herein, the strap 18 is secured to the latch assembly 16 and the chassis 14.

[0116] The latch assembly 16 is particularly configured as a spring-biased, off-center pull latch and has a lever 16A shown detached from the prosthetic foot piece 10 in U.S. Patent No. 9, 1 1 1, 1 1 1. Figure 1 crutch 10A in U.S. Patent No. 9, 1 1 1, 1 1 1. Figure 1 even when the traction system 12 is separated from the latch assembly 16 in the unlocked state.

[0117] As Figure 3As shown, when the chassis 14 is fitted onto the prosthetic foot piece 10 and the latch assembly 16 is latched to couple the chassis 14 onto the prosthetic foot piece 10, the strap 18 is placed or can be placed in a tensioned state as described herein. Because the traction system 12 is configured to be easily and quickly secured to and removed from the prosthetic foot piece 10, the wearer can use different traction systems for different uses and activities while wearing the prosthetic foot piece 10. Only a portion of the prosthetic foot piece 10 is shown proximate to its distal end 38 (e.g., the portion that interacts with the ground). Figure 4 The entire foot piece 10 is shown, including the proximal end of the prosthetic foot piece 10. The proximal end is configured to be secured to a prosthetic leg by any mounting mechanism, such as by fasteners secured through one or more holes 11 at the proximal end.

[0118] The traction system 12 can also include at least one underlayer secured or securable to the bottom side 21 of the chassis 14, and at least partially establishing the ground-engaging surface 22 of the traction system 12. Figure 1 The traction system 12 of FIG. 1, in particular, includes two or more underlayers secured or securable to the bottom side 21 (also referred to as the second side) of the chassis 14: an outsole 24 that establishes the ground-engaging surface 22, and a midsole 26 secured or securable to the outsole and the bottom side 21 of the chassis 14. Further, in some embodiments of any of the traction systems disclosed herein, an interface layer can be provided on the top side of the chassis 14, which is particularly configured to enhance grip and reduce slippage for engagement with the bottom side 27 of the prosthetic foot piece 10. For example, in the traction system 12, the interface layer can be secured to the top side 14A of the chassis 14, and can be a material such as thermoplastic polyurethane. As disclosed herein, other traction systems alternatively attached to the prosthetic foot piece 10 include traction systems with cleated plates, or traction systems with different outsole tread patterns, etc.

[0119] The first and second ends of the lever 16A (in particular, the front and rear ends 28, 30, respectively, and referred to as such herein) latch to respective first and second catches (in particular, front and rear catches 32, 34, and referred to as such herein) of the latch mount 16B, held at recesses 32A, 34A of the catches 32, 34, as discussed further herein.

[0120] The catches 32, 34 are secured or securable to a latch base 35, also referred to herein as the latch base 35, which is secured to the top side 23 of the prosthetic foot piece 10. Additional features of the chassis 14 that help retain the chassis 14 on the prosthetic foot piece 10 include, among others, a toe cap 36 that fits at least partially over the distal end 38 of the prosthetic foot piece 10, and / or one or more integral side clips 40 that are disposed on (in particular, extend around) the lateral sides (in particular, substantially opposite sides) 25 of the prosthetic foot piece 10 and / or over the top side 23 of the prosthetic foot piece 10.

[0121] The sole plate 14 is connected to the prosthetic foot piece 10 by sliding the prosthetic foot piece 10 under the clamp 40 and substantially toward the toe 36, such that the sole plate 14 is located on the bottom side 27 of the prosthetic foot piece 10 and the toe 36 is above the distal end 38. Figure 5 The inclined surface 13 of the prosthetic foot piece 10 shown and described herein provides a guide for engagement of the prosthetic foot piece 10 with the clamp 40, facilitating forward sliding of the prosthetic foot piece 10 relative to the clamp 14 during the process of securing the base plate 14 to the prosthetic foot piece 10. The prosthetic foot piece 10 slides between the clamp 40 and the top side 23 (also referred to as the first side) of the base plate 14.

[0122] The base plate 14 has a front wall 33 (see...) Figure 5 The toe 36 is positioned in front of the distal end 38 of the prosthetic foot piece 10, and when the sole plate 14 is attached to the prosthetic foot piece 10, the toe 36 extends substantially rearward from the forewall 33 above the top side 23 of the prosthetic foot piece 10. The forewall 33 and / or the toe 36 act as a frontal barrier to prevent the prosthetic foot piece 10 from sliding forward on the sole plate 14, thereby ensuring proper positioning of the prosthetic foot piece 10 on the sole plate 14 during attachment.

[0123] refer to Figure 4 The top side 23 of the prosthetic foot piece 10 includes a bevel 13 at the distal end 38. For example... Figure 5 As shown, the angle B1 between surface 13A of the inclined plane 13 and surface 38A of the distal end 38 is equal to or substantially equal to the angle B2 between the inner surface 36A of the toe 36 and the inner surface 33A of the front wall 33 of the sole plate 14. As a non-limiting example, angle B1 can range from approximately 30 degrees to approximately 60 degrees. In the example shown, angle B1 is 60 degrees and angle B2 is 60 degrees.

[0124] As shown in the figure, the toe 36 and the forefoot 33 define a cavity 37 in which the distal end 38 of the prosthetic foot piece 10 is fitted. The angle B2 of the bevel 13 of the prosthetic foot piece 10 and the corresponding angle B2 of the inner surface 36A relative to the inner surface 33A particularly facilitates wedging the prosthetic foot piece 10 into the base plate 14 when tension is applied to the strap 18 as discussed herein, advantageously eliminating play that may be associated with variations in the thickness of the prosthetic foot piece 10 or dimensional variations in the base plate 14 at the cavity 37. Thus, when tension is applied due to the strap 18 and the latch assembly 16, the bevel 13 of the prosthetic foot piece, which mates with the base plate 14 at the cavity 37, creates a mechanical lock between the base plate 14 and the prosthetic foot piece 10.

[0125] refer to Figure 1When not secured to prosthetic foot piece 10, bottom plate 14 can have only a slight curvature CI, or can be relatively flat on its top side 14A in the longitudinal direction when prosthetic foot piece 10 is not under dynamic compression, as compared to the larger curvature C2 of prosthetic foot piece 10 near distal end 38. Bottom plate 14 has sufficient flexibility to accommodate the curvature C2 of prosthetic foot piece 10 when disposed thereon and latched thereto by strap 18 and latch assembly 16, thereby reducing the likelihood of any relative motion and associated rattling. For example, bottom plate 14 can be plastic. Alternatively, the curvature CI of bottom plate 14 can substantially match the curvature C2 of prosthetic foot piece 10, even when not secured to prosthetic foot piece 10. Further, the flexibility of bottom plate 14 allows it to flex with prosthetic foot piece 10 during dynamic loading of prosthetic foot piece 10 (e.g., during dorsiflexion and toe-off, the curvature of prosthetic foot piece 10 increases, such as when the wearer moves forward and prosthetic foot piece 10 contacts the ground).

[0126] Figure 2 Bottom plate 14 is shown assembled on prosthetic foot piece 10, with latch assembly 16 in a partially latched state. First (forward) end 28 (see Figure 1 ) of lever 16A has latched to first (forward) catch 32, and lever 16A has pivoted particularly rearward (e.g., in the direction of arrow Al) about its forward end 28 using forward catch 32 as a hinge joint. Figure 3 Lever 16A is shown in a fully latched state, with strap 18 pulled taut, pulling bottom plate 14 toward distal end 38 and bottom side 27 of prosthetic foot piece 10. Figure 3 Outsole 24 and midsole 26 are not shown on bottom plate 14 in

[0127] Figure 6 A mobility support device, particularly a crutch 10A, is shown. Crutch 10A includes an elongated member 29 having a distal portion 31 (e.g., a foot portion) having a distal end 38, a top side 23, a bottom side 27, and opposite sides 25, as described with respect to the same features of prosthetic foot piece 10, which are indicated with the same reference numerals. Any of the traction systems described herein can be used with a crutch in a similar manner as described for a prosthetic foot piece having the same features. As described with respect to a similar crutch 100 in U.S. Patent No. 10,064,781 to Clausen et al., issued September 4, 2018, the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference, crutch 10A is configured to provide energy storage and return to a user during ambulation. Crutch 10A is designed to efficiently store and release energy generated during ambulation to improve the assistive and ease of use of the crutch. Additional crutches are also disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 10,064,781 and can be used with the traction systems described herein.

[0128] The walking stick 10A includes an elongated member 29, an arm cuff 39, and a handle 41. The elongated member 29 includes, among other things, a proximal portion 43, a central portion 45 extending at an angle relative to the central portion 45 distally connected to the proximal portion 43 by a first transition segment 47, and a curved distal portion 31 distally connected to the central portion 45 by a second transition segment 49. The arm cuff 39 is shown for use with a left arm, but a similar walking stick 10A can have an arm cuff configured for use with a right arm. Regardless of whether the walking stick 10A is for use with a right arm or a left arm, any or all of the proximal portion 43, the central portion 45, and the curved distal portion 31 can be identical, or these components can be oriented medially or laterally, respectively, to assist in ambulation.

[0129] According to some aspects, the elongated member 29 can be a single shaped member. For example, the first and second transition segments 47, 49 can comprise a bend in the elongated member 29. In some aspects, the elongated member 29 can be a combination of two or more attached portions. For example, the elongated member 29 can include one or more joints that can connect one or more portions of the elongated member 29.

[0130] The arm cuff 39 is attached proximally to the proximal portion 43 and can be coupled to a user’s arm or below a user’s elbow. The handle 41 is attached distally to the proximal portion 43 at a location outward from the arm cuff 39 and extends outward therefrom. In some examples, the handle 41 can be attached to the first transition segment 47 and / or the central portion 45. In some cases, the handle is not included in the walking stick 10A, but can be an optional accessory. The walking stick 10A can include a hole 51 disposed within the proximal portion 43, where the handle 41 can be adjustably slid along the hole 51. In some examples, the handle 41 can be locked into place after adjustment.

[0131] The curved distal portion 31 can have a generally curved profile and can advantageously absorb and release energy to help propel a user forward during use, improving user performance. For example, in response to vertical forces generated during ambulation, the curved distal portion 31 can flex and provide energy return to the user upon push-off. In some examples, a substantially vertical force generated at the beginning of ambulation is stored and at least partially converted into linear motion. This action reduces the need for the user to actively push his or her body forward using the walking stick 10A and can also balance stride length. Additionally, it can provide a more natural gait and reduced friction and / or ambulation force.

[0132] The elongated member 29 can be made of a composite material (e.g., a carbon fiber composite material, a glass fiber composite material, or a carbon-glass fiber composite material). In some examples, the elongated member 29 can be made of other suitable materials (e.g., a metal, such as aluminum, steel, or titanium).

[0133] Figure 7 is a perspective side view of the latching assembly 16. The lever 16A includes a first latching body 42 and a second latching body 44 coupled to the first latching body 42. The first latching body 42 specifically includes the front end 28 of the lever 16A. The first latching body 42 can be a single (one-piece) body that forms the front end 28. Because the lever 16A is pivoted at the front end 28 under tension during latching, the first latching body 42 can be made of a sufficiently strong material, such as but not limited to steel or aluminum.

[0134] Specifically, the second latching body 44 partially covers the first latching body 42 when coupled to the first latching body 42, thereby defining most of the top surface of the lever 16A. Thus, the second latching body 44 can be referred to as a latching cover. The second latching body 44 includes the rear end 30 of the lever 16A (best shown in Figure 10 ), and includes a handle 46 that protrudes at the rear end 30 when the lever 16A is latched at the rear end 30.

[0135] A biasing member (e.g., spring) 88 disposed between the latching bodies 42, 44 (as shown in Figure 12 ) biases the front end 28 away from the rear end 30 along the longitudinal axis L (see Figure 8 ) of the latching base 35 and the prosthetic foot 10 to which the latching base 35 is fixed. In other words, the biasing member (spring 88) biases the ends 38, 30 into the respective pockets 32A, 34A that capture the ends in the catches 32, 34 (see Figure 7 ).

[0136] The handle 46 can be grasped by, for example, a wearer of the prosthetic foot 10 and pushed toward the front end 28 to apply pressure to the biasing member (spring 88) to move the rear end 30 closer to the front end 28 to enable the lip 56 (see Figure 7 and 10 ) to pass over the rear catch 34 and move into the pocket 34A during latching and out of the pocket 34A during unlatching. To unlatch, the rear end 30 of the lever 16A can then be pivoted forward about the front end 28 in a direction opposite the arrow Al. When sufficiently pivoted, the tension of the strap 18 on the lever 16A between the front end 28 and the rear end 30 helps to move the front end 28, for example, rearward and out of the pocket 32A, allowing the front lip 54 (see Figure 7 ) to pass over the front catch 32 to unlatch the lever 16A.

[0137] Figure 8This is a plan view of the latch assembly 16, and best shows the latch assembly 16 as symmetrical about its longitudinal axis L. The latch base 35 and the latches 32, 34 fixed thereon are symmetrical about one or both of the longitudinal axis L and the transverse axis T perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L (shown as symmetrical about both the longitudinal axis L and the transverse axis T).

[0138] Reference Figure 13 The front latch 32 defines a front recess 32A opening toward the rear latch 34, and the rear latch 34 defines a rear recess 34A opening toward the front latch 32. Each of the front latch 32 and the rear latch 34 is, in particular, three-sided, having a transverse wall 48, two side walls 50, and a partial cover 52, which together form the recess 32A or 34A. The side walls 50 of the front latch 32 extend toward the rear latch 34 particularly away from the transverse wall 48, such that the front recess 32A opens toward the rear recess 34A. Similarly, the side walls 50 of the rear latch 34 extend toward the front latch 32, away from the transverse wall 48 of the rear latch 34.

[0139] like Figure 9 As best shown in the diagram, the front end 28 of the first latch body 42 includes a first lip (particularly the anterior lip 54, and referred to herein as such), the shape and size of which are configured to be captured in Figure 13 In the front recess 32A, the front end 28 latches to the front latch 32. Similarly, the rear end 30 of the second latch body 44 (also referred to as the latch cover) includes a second lip (particularly the rear lip 56, and so referred to herein) (see Figure 10 Its shape and size are set to be captured in Figure 13 In the rear recess 34A, the rear end 30 is latched to the rear latch 34. The front lip 54 has a cylindrical shape to serve as a pivot pin, and its central axis C serves as the pivot axis of the lever 16A during latching and unlocking.

[0140] like Figure 10 As shown, the posterior lip 56 has a particularly flat upper surface 56A, which forms an adjacent surface. Figure 13 The flange on the inner side of the cover 52 of the rear latch 34 is shown. The flat upper surface 56A maximizes the contact area between the rear lip 56 and the rear latch 34 in order to distribute force and maintain the latched state.

[0141] Refer again Figure 9 The first latch body 42 has opposing sidewalls 58, each having a hole 60 (e.g., displaced from the front end 28, e.g., positioned rearward) and between the front end 28 and the rear end 30 of the assembled lever 16A. Figure 7 (As shown). The intermediate wall 80 extends laterally between the side walls 58 behind the hole 60. When the strap 18 is secured to the base plate 14 and the lever 16A, the strap 18 extends through the lever 16A at the hole 60 in the side wall 58, for example as...Figure 3 and 12 By configuring the lever 16A such that the strap 18 applies force to the lever 16A at a location approximately midway between the end portions 28, 30 rather than at the rear end 30, the lever arm between the pivot axis at the front end 28 and the pulling force of the strap 18 is shorter, requiring less torque to manipulate the lever 16A during latching. Moreover, having the strap 18 proximate the front end 28 helps to apply a forward and downward force of the strap 18 to wedge the front end 28 forward into the front catch 32, which is better than examples of latching assemblies in which the strap is attached to the latching assembly further proximate the rear end and / or over the prosthetic foot piece 10 further distally from the latching position.

[0142] Figure 10 and 11 The second latching body 44 is shown to include a partial side wall 62 extending downward from the top wall 64. The side wall 62 has one or more notches 66 that align with one or more holes 60 in the side wall 58 of the first latching body 42 when the latching bodies 42, 44 are coupled to one another. This in particular allows the strap 18 to extend through the holes 60 without interference from the second latching body 44. The side wall 62 is spaced slightly further apart from one another than the side wall 58, such that in the assembled lever 16A, the side wall 62 is disposed adjacent to and outward of the side wall 58.

[0143] The side wall 58 of the first latching body 42 in particular includes an outwardly extending flange 68 proximate an upper extent of the first latching body 42. The side wall 62 of the second latching body 44 forms a longitudinal slot 70 (e.g., an open channel) inward of the side wall 62. The slot 70 opens at a front edge 72 of the second latching body 44 and is closed by a rear wall 74 of the second latching body 44 proximate the rear end 30. The flange 68 fits at least partially within the slot 70.

[0144] When the second latching body 44 is secured to the first latching body 42 during assembly of the lever 16A, the front edge 72 is located at a rear end 76 of the flange 68, and the second latching body 44 slides forward along the flange 68 at least until a protrusion 78 (see Figure 11 ) on a bottom side of the top wall 64 clears a medial wall 80 of the first latching body 42.

[0145] The medial wall 80 is disposed rearward of the front end 28 and forward of the rear end 30. The protrusion 78 in particular has an angled front surface 78A that allows the protrusion 78 to clear the medial wall 80 during assembly, but an orthogonal rear surface 78B of the protrusion 78 prevents the protrusion 78 from traveling rearward past the medial wall 80.

[0146] The side wall 58 in particular has a protrusion 81 with a rounded surface 82 (at Figure 7At the circular surface 82, the strap 18 interfaces with and pulls forward on the lever 16A to reinforce the sidewall and avoid a sharp corner at the interface with the strap 18. In addition, each sidewall 58 defines a notch 84, particularly between the flange 68 and the protrusion 81, through which a lower inner edge 86 of the sidewall 62 of the second latch body 44 passes during assembly of the second latch body 44 to the first latch body 42 (see Figure 10 ).

[0147] Figure 12 is a plan view of the first latch body 42 with the strap 18 extending through the sidewall 58 at the aperture 60. Shown is a biasing member 88 that biases the front end 28 away from the rear end 30 in the assembled lever 16A. The biasing member 88 is specifically shown and referred to as a compression spring 88, and more specifically, as a compression-type coil spring. It should be appreciated that other biasing members can alternatively or additionally be used, such as a resilient rod, a spring member, etc. The coil spring 88 is disposed in a chamber 90 of the first latch body 42, which is formed between the rear of the sidewall 58 and the intermediate wall 80.

[0148] The chamber 90 is partially cylindrical with an open top. As Figure 9 Best shown, the rear wall 92 of the first latch body 42 has a partially circular opening 94. The diameter of the coil spring 88 is less than the diameter of the opening 94.

[0149] Once inserted into the chamber 90, the rear of the coil spring 88 particularly abuts the inside of the rear wall 74 of the second latch body 44, and the front of the coil spring 88 abuts the rear surface of the intermediate wall 80 of the first latch body 42. In this manner, the front end 28 of the lever 16A is biased away from the rear end 30 to facilitate maintaining the ends 28, 30 in the latched position in the respective pockets 32A, 34A.

[0150] In the latched position, the rear wall 74 of the second latch body 44 is particularly spaced apart from the rear wall 92 of the first latch body 42 by the coil spring 88. The coil spring 88 also forces the front surface of the intermediate wall 80 against the rear surface 78B of the protrusion 78, such that the protrusion 78 limits longitudinal separation of the front end 28 and the rear end 30.

[0151] To unlock the lever 16A from the rear catch 34, a force on the handle 46 toward the front catch 32 (e.g., in the forward direction) counteracts the biasing force of the spring 88 against the rear wall 74 and, if large enough, can overcome the biasing force of the spring, compressing the spring 88 and sliding the second latch body 44 along the flange 68 such that the rear wall 74 is closer to the rear wall 92, shortening the distance between the ends 28, 30 to release the lever 16A from the rear catch 34.

[0152] Reference is made to Figure 12The latch assembly 16 includes, among other things, a tension adjustment device 100 for the strap 18. The tension adjustment device 100 includes an adjustment screw 101 that extends longitudinally within the lever 16A and interfaces with the strap 18. The adjustment screw 101 extends longitudinally within the chamber 90 and through a threaded opening 102 in the intermediate wall 80. The intermediate wall 80 can itself be threaded at the opening 102, or an internally threaded ring 104 can be provided in the opening 102, as shown in Figure 12 . Figure 9 .

[0153] At least a portion of the adjustment screw 101 has external threads that engage the threaded opening 102. A rear end 105 of the screw 101 has a socket 106 at which the adjustment screw 101 can be engaged, for example, with a tool, to move the screw back and forth along the longitudinal axis of the lever 16A. As shown in Figure 11 , the second latch body 44 has a rear window 107 through which the socket 106 can be accessed.

[0154] A first end, particularly a forward end 108, and referred to herein as such, of the screw 101 is at least partially covered by a plunger tip 110 that contacts the strap 18. By adjusting the screw 101, a middle portion of the strap 18 is urged back and forth in a forward chamber 113 of the first latch body 42 at the plunger tip 110.

[0155] Because the ends of the strap 18 are secured to the base plate 14, as discussed further herein, moving the middle portion of the strap 18 with the adjustment screw 101 can adjust the tension in the strap 18. For example, moving the plunger tip 110 forward into the strap 18 urges the middle portion of the strap 18 forward, increasing the tension. Moving the plunger tip 110 rearward allows the middle portion of the strap 18 to move rearward as well, decreasing the tension. The magnitude of the adjustment can be relatively small. For example, the adjustment device 100 can be used to overcome small variations in tension associated with production tolerances in the length of the strap 18, slight relaxation or deformation of the strap 18 over time that affects its length, variations in placement of the strap 18 on the base plate 14 during assembly, or other production variations. The strap 18 can be, among other things, a relatively inelastic material such as a tightly woven nylon strap, a plastic, a steel cable, or another material or combination of materials.

[0156] Figure 13 are bottom perspective views of the front and rear latches 32, 34 showing one or more fastener openings 112 sized and spaced to align with one or more fastener openings 114 in the latch base 35 of Figure 14 .

[0157] One or more alignment features 116A of the latches 32, 34 align with one or more alignment features 116B of the latch base 35. Figure 14One or more corresponding alignment features 116B of the illustrated latching base 35 align to position the clasps 32, 34 prior to extending a fastener through the fastener opening 114 into the fastener opening 112.

[0158] Figure 14 is a perspective view of a bottom surface 120 of the latching base 35 that faces away from the clasps 32, 34 when assembled to the latching base 35. As Figure 14 illustrated, one or more of the fastener openings 114 are particularly sloped. This enables the head of a fastener (e.g., a screw) used to connect the clasps 32, 34 to the latching base 35 to recess into the latching base 35 such that the bottom surface 120 appears flat on the top side of the prosthetic foot 10 when secured to the top side 23 of the prosthetic foot 10 (e.g., by an adhesive bond).

[0159] As is evident from the location of the fastener openings 114 and the footprint of the clasps 32, 34, the latching base 35 and its bottom surface 120 extend forward, rearward, and / or outward from the clasps 32, 34. This provides a greater bonding surface and disperses the force of the tensioned strap 18 over a greater surface area as compared to a situation where the bottom surface 120 is smaller. For example, as Figure 3 illustrated, a portion 35A of the latching base 35 extends forward of the clasp 32 along the top side 23 of the prosthetic foot 10.

[0160] The latching base 35 can be relatively thin and flexible so as to flex with the underlying prosthetic foot 10. For example, the latching base 35 can be a carbon fiber material. The portion of the latching base 35 under the footprint of the clasps 32, 34 and lever 16A is substantially prevented from flexing during use due to the overlying structure. Because the prosthetic foot 10 will flex and change curvature during use, the portion of the latching base 35 that extends forward, rearward, and / or outward from the clasps 32, 34, e.g., the front portion 35A that is not overlaid by structure, can flex with the bending of the prosthetic foot 10 to better ensure that the bonded bottom surface 120 does not separate from the prosthetic foot 10. By attaching the fasteners to a compliant latching base 35, the components of the latching assembly 16 are able to move with the flexing foot 10 and vibrations in the latching assembly 16 are minimized.

[0161] Figure 15 is a bottom perspective view of the bottom plate 14 showing a recess 122 formed or otherwise provided in the bottom side 21. The recess 122 can have a depth and length that accommodates a portion of the strap 18. More particularly, the strap 18 adheres to the bottom plate 14 in the recess 122. The front end 124 of the recess 122 is closer to the front wall 33 of the bottom plate 14 than the rear wall 125. The recess 122 extends rearward and outward to a lateral exit 126 on the opposite side of the bottom plate 14 proximate the rear wall 125.

[0162] As shown in Figure 1 and 16 , the sidewalls 127 of the chassis 14 decrease in height in the rearward direction (e.g., tapered) until they terminate at the outlet 126, as shown in Figure 16 . The height of the sidewalls 127 increases in the forward direction from the outlet 126 of the strap 18 toward the toe 36. The sidewalls 127 act as side barriers that extend upwardly outside of the chassis 14 to help center the prosthetic foot piece 10 on the chassis 14. The illustrated chassis 14 is symmetrical about a longitudinal axis (e.g., an axis that extends through the center of the front wall 33 to the center of the rear wall 125). Thus, the illustrated sidewalls 127 are identical to the sidewalls on the other side of the chassis 14. With the front wall 33 and the opposing sidewalls 127, the chassis 14 acts as a three-sided tray.

[0163] As shown in Figure 16 , the ends 18A, 18B of the strap 18 are disposed at the ends 124 of the recess 122. In Figure 1 , 2 , 12 and 15-16, a single strap 18 is used, with the middle portion 18C of the strap 18 extending through the lever 16A in Figure 2 . Alternatively, the strap 18 can be a loop, and the recess 122 can be continuous (e.g., without ends) on the bottom side 21 to accommodate the front of the loop. In yet another example, two straps can be used, each extending from its respective end 18A, 18B to a separate end that is secured to the lever 16A after extending through the respective hole 60 into the lever 16A.

[0164] Figure 17 is a bottom perspective view of the outsole 24 of Figure 1 . The outsole 24 can be natural or synthetic rubber or another flexible, durable material capable of providing traction. In particular, the outsole 24 has a variety of protrusions 130 and grooves 132 arranged in a pattern as shown to increase the traction and durability of the traction system of Figure 1 . The front portion 24A of the outsole 24 is shaped to extend over the front wall 33 of the chassis 14.

[0165] When the midsole 26 (see Figure 1 ) and the outsole 24 are secured to the bottom side 21 of the chassis 14, the recess 122 is covered, with the portion of the strap 18 in the recess 122 sandwiched between the midsole 26 and the bottom side 21 of the chassis 14, or in examples without a midsole 26, between the outsole 24 and the bottom side 21 of the chassis 14.

[0166] Figure 18is a bottom perspective view of a spike plate 224 having one or more spikes 226. In particular, two or more spikes 226 are located at or near the front extent 226A of the spike plate 224 and serve to enhance traction as the toes are lifted off the ground. One or more spikes 226 can be formed integrally with the plate, while another or others spikes 226 can be fastened to the spike plate 224. Alternatively, in some examples, all spikes 226 are formed integrally with the spike plate 224, or all spikes 226 can be fastened to the spike plate 224. The spike plate 224 can be secured directly to the bottom side 21 of the bottom plate 14, or in some examples, a bottom layer such as a cushioned midsole can be disposed between the bottom plate 14 and the spike plate 224. In further examples, the spike plate 224 can be formed integrally as the bottom of the bottom plate 14. The spike plate 224 can be plastic, among other things, and / or can include one or more laterally-extending channels 232 that enable the spike plate 224 to bend with the prosthetic foot piece 10 during flexion of the prosthetic foot piece 10.

[0167] Figure 19 is a partial exploded view of the prosthetic foot piece 10 and Figure 1 the bottom plate 14 and midsole 26 of the sole structure 20 of with an alternative outsole 324. The outsole 324 includes a first (front) outsole portion 324A and a separate second (rear) outsole portion 324B, both of which can be particularly of a flexible, durable material such as natural or synthetic rubber. The front outsole portion 324A is secured particularly to the bottom face of the midsole 26 and extends forward over the front wall 33 of the bottom plate 14. The rear outsole portion 324B can be secured directly to the bottom side 27 of the prosthetic foot piece 10 so that it is positioned just rearward of the front outsole portion 324A when the traction assembly (including particularly the bottom plate 14, the midsole 26, the front outsole portion 324A, and the strap 18 and latch assembly 16 or other latch assembly) is coupled to the prosthetic foot piece 10. Alternatively, the midsole 26 and bottom plate 14 can be long enough so that the rear outsole portion 324B can be secured to the bottom face of the midsole 26 just rearward of the front outsole portion 324A.

[0168] Figure 20 is a partial exploded view of the prosthetic foot piece 10 and Figure 1 the bottom plate 14 of the sole structure 20 of Figure 1 with an alternative midsole and outsole. In contrast to Figure 19 the spike plate 424 is used in place of the front outsole portion 324A, but the same or similar rear outsole portion 324B can be used. One or more spikes 426 can be fastened to the spike plate 424, while another or others spikes 426 can be formed integrally with the spike plate 424. The spike plate 424 is secured to the bottom face of the midsole 26.

[0169] The peg plate 424 is particularly less flexible than the front outsole portion 324A, and thus cannot extend upward along the front wall 33. The rear outsole portion 324B can be secured directly to the bottom side 27 of the prosthetic foot piece 10, so that it is disposed just rearward of the peg plate 424 when the traction assembly (particularly including the base plate 14, the peg plate 424, and / or the strap 18 and the latch assembly 16 or other latch assembly) is coupled to the prosthetic foot piece 10. Alternatively, the base plate 14 can be long enough so that the rear outsole portion 324B can be secured to the bottom face of the base plate 14 just rearward of the peg plate 424.

[0170] Figure 21 is a partial perspective exploded view of the prosthetic foot piece 10 and an alternative traction system 512 for the prosthetic foot piece 10. The traction system 512 includes a base plate 514, an outsole 522, the strap 18, and / or a latch assembly 516. The base plate 514 is similar to the base plate 14, and is configured to be coupled to the distal end 38 of the prosthetic foot piece 10 to extend substantially under the bottom side 27, with a front wall 33 forward of the distal end 38, and a toe box 36 extending rearward over the distal end 38 from the front wall 33.

[0171] The base plate 514 also particularly has one or more recesses 122 as shown in Figure 15 with the strap 18 secured to the base plate 514 in the recesses 122 and sandwiched between the base plate 514 and one or more underlayers extending under the bottom side of the base plate 514. For example, the traction system 512 includes an outsole 522 (only a portion of which is shown) extending under the base plate 514 to establish a ground-engaging surface.

[0172] The latch assembly 516 is shown in Figure 21 an unlocked state, and is configured as an off-center pull-type latch. The latch assembly 516 has at least one lever 516A that is captured and held to a front catch 532 of a latch mount 516B in Figure 21 an unlocked state, and is configured as an off-center pull-type latch. The latch assembly 516 has at least one lever 516A that is captured and held to a front catch 532 of a latch mount 516B in Figure 24 is shown with the strap 18 in tension as discussed herein when the base plate 514 is fitted onto the prosthetic foot piece 10 and the latch assembly 516 is latched to couple the base plate 514 to the prosthetic foot piece 10.

[0173] The first latch body 542 includes a first (front) end 528 of the lever 516A that is captured and held to the front catch 532 of the latch mount 516B in the latched state. The second latch body 544 includes a second (rear) end 530 of the lever 516A. In Figure 21 and 22 are shown with the bottom side of the lever 516A, and the lever is inverted from this position when latched, with the front end 528 as shown inFigure 23 The rear end 530 is shown disposed proximate a front wall 534 of the spring biased button 535 at the front catch 532. The lever 516A is then pivoted rearwardly about the front lip 554 in the direction of arrow A2.

[0174] One or more flanges 568 of the first latch body 542 fit through one or more notches 569 in the second latch body 544 and then engage with a ramp 537 (see Figure 23 ) of an arm 535A of the spring biased button 535. One arm 535A is shown in Figure 21 extending below the notch 569 and a similar arm is disposed on a substantially opposite side of the button 535 extending toward the other notch 569. The arm 535A is retained in a channel 570 below a top edge 586 of the second latch mount 516B.

[0175] The arm 535A is particularly slid slightly rearwardly with the button 535 against a biasing force of a biasing member (e.g., spring 588) disposed in a channel of the button 535 under the force of the flange 568 against the ramp 537. The spring 588 biases the button 535 away from the rear end wall of the latch mount 516B. The flange 568 is particularly confined below a notch 571 (see Figure 23 ) at the end of the arm 535A when the lever 516A is fully pivoted and the manual force inserted into the lever 516A is released. In this position, the strap 18 is tensioned when the strap 18 is secured to the lever 516A by the loop 519 engaging the second end 530.

[0176] To unlock the latch assembly 516 for removal of the traction system 512 from the prosthetic foot piece 10, the button 535 is pressed rearwardly against the force of the spring 588 causing the arm 535A to move rearwardly and the flange 568 is no longer disposed within the notch 571. The lever 516A can then be lifted at its rear end 530 and pivoted in the opposite direction A2 from Figure 23 , the flange 568 is moved out through the notch 569. The front end 528 can then be slid out of (i.e., released from) the front catch 532.

[0177] The latch assembly 516 particularly further includes a tension adjustment device 500 (see Figure 22 ) that adjusts the tension in the strap 18 when the latch assembly 516 is latched. Unlike the traction system 12, the strap 18 does not extend through the latch bodies 542, 544 but rather through the loop 519 captured by the first latch body 542 proximate the rear end 530.

[0178] The tension adjustment device 500 particularly includes a threaded adjustment screw 501 extending longitudinally substantially within the lever 516A. As with Figure 12Unlike the adjustment screw 101, the adjustment screw 501 does not engage the strap 18, but rather engages an interior transverse wall of the first latch body 542 to adjust the overall distance between the front end 528 and the rear end 530 in the latched position. Because the strap 18 is connected to the first latch body 542 through the loop 519, the tension in the strap 18 is increased or decreased by the tension adjustment device 500.

[0179] One end (the rear end) 505 of the screw 501 specifically has a socket 506 at which the adjustment screw 501 can be engaged with a tool to move the screw back and forth along the longitudinal axis of the lever 516A. As shown in Figure 22 and 23 The second latch body 544 has a window (the rear window 507) through which the socket 506 can be accessed, as shown.

[0180] Figure 25 is a perspective view of an alternative latch assembly 616 for a traction system and is shown latched to the top side 23 of a prosthetic foot 10, with the loop 519, strap 18, and floor 14 or 514 not shown. The latch assembly 616 functions as described with respect to the latch assembly 516 and has a slightly different outer wall style of the latch mount 516B.

[0181] Figure 26 is a perspective view of another alternative latch assembly 716 for a traction system and is shown latched to the top side 23 of a prosthetic foot 10, with a loop 719 for a strap 18 similar to the loop 519, and / or with the strap 18 and floor 14 or 514 not shown. The latch assembly 716 functions as described with respect to the latch assembly 516, but the notch 569 is further toward the rear of the latch mount 716B, and / or the release button 773 overcomes a biasing member (e.g., a biasing spring) to release the flange 568 from under the arm of the button, enabling the flange 568 to pivot through the notch 569, thereby allowing the lever 716A to unlock. The flange 568 is not visible in Figure 26 but extends from a first latch body 742 that includes a front end, similar to the lever 516A.

[0182] Figure 27 is a perspective view of an alternative latch assembly 816 for a prosthetic foot traction system. The latch assembly 816 is shown in Figure 27 a latched state and is configured as an off-center pull latch. The latch assembly 816 specifically has at least one lever 816A and at least one latch mount 816B to which the lever 816A is latchable. The latch mount 816B includes a latch base 835 and a mount body 847 that is fixable to the latch base 835, and the latch base 835 is fixable to Figure 1The top side 23 of the prosthetic foot piece 10 shown, even when the traction system is detached with the latch assembly 816 in the unlocked state.

[0183] The lever 816A includes a first latch body 842 (best shown in Figure 29 FIG. 16A) and a second latch body 844 (best shown in Figure 28 FIG. 16B). The first latch body 842 includes a front lip 854 at the front end 828 configured to function in the same manner as the lip 554 of the lever 516A. The first latch body 842 also includes spaced apart side walls 858 with outwardly extending flanges 868 near the upper extent of the first latch body 842. The second latch body 844 has spaced apart side walls 862 that form longitudinal slots 870 (e.g., open channels) inwardly of the side walls 862. The slots 870 open at a front edge 872 of the second latch body 844 and are closed by a medial wall 874 that extends inwardly from the side walls 862 between the front edge 872 and the rear end 830 of the second latch body 844. The flanges 868 of the first latch body 842 fit within the slots 870.

[0184] When the second latch body 844 is secured to the first latch body 42 during assembly of the lever 516A, the front edge 872 is at the rear end 876 of the flanges 868, and the second latch body 844 slides forward along the flanges 868 at least until the front edge 872 stops at the shoulder 867 of each side wall 858. Figure 29 One shoulder 867 is shown, and the first latch body 842 is particularly symmetrical about a longitudinal center axis of the first latch body 842. The first latch body 842 has laterally extending arms 869 disposed below the flanges 868, forming a gap on either side of the first latch body 842 in which an inner edge 886 of the side walls 862 is disposed. The arms 869 are thus below the side walls 862.

[0185] Figure 30 A mounting body 847 is shown secured or securable to the latch base 835 in Figure 27 such as by one or more fasteners (not shown) extending through one or more fastener openings 812 spaced to align with one or more spaced apart fastener openings of the latch base 835 (the fastener openings of the latch base 835 are covered by the lever 816A in Figure 27 FIG. 16A). Only two fastener openings 812 are shown, but there can be more on the underside of the mounting body 847 below the side walls 888.

[0186] Figure 31 is Figure 27FIG. 16 is a plan view of a third latch body 849 of the latch assembly 816. The third latch body 849 has a raised button 849A and spaced-apart longitudinal button arms 849B extending rearwardly from the button 849A, in particular. The rearward ends of the arms 849B have a ramp 837 on their upper sides, similar to the ramp 537 of the latch assembly 516.

[0187] The underside of the arms 849B has a downwardly extending protrusion 849C (e.g., into the page) in particular, forming a notch 871 at the forward end of each arm 849B (e.g., forward of the protrusion 849C and below the ramp 837). The mounting body 847 forms a channel 847A extending from the forward edge 847B to a hole 847C formed in the mounting body 847. The longitudinal arms 849B fit at least partially within the channel 847A and can slide rearwardly in the channel 847A from the forward edge 847B such that the protrusion 849C extends downwardly in the hole 847C. The mounting body 847 forms a recess 847D extending from the rear edge 847E to the front catch 832 formed by the mounting body 847. Figure 31

[0188] When the lever 816A is latched by placing the lip 854 of the first latch body 842 in the catch 832 and pivoting the lever 816A rearwardly and downwardly about the lip 854, the lever 816A fits in the recess 847D with the strap connection arms 844A extending rearwardly of the recess 847D. Each strap connection arm 844A defines a three-sided slot 819 open toward the latch base 835. The strap 18 passes through the slot 819 to extend through the lever 816A near the rear end 830 of the lever 816A.

[0189] The guide plate 831 is secured to the second latch body 844 between the slots 819, in particular, to help guide the strap 18 between the slots 819. When the floorboard 14 with the strap 18 secured thereto is latched onto the prosthetic foot piece 10 by the latch assembly 816, the tension of the strap 18 wedges the lip 854 into the front catch 832.

[0190] The ends of the arms 849B are arranged such that, during latching, the arms 869 of the first latch body 842 slide over the ramp 837 and are captured in the notch 871 below the button arms 849B with the protrusion 849C abutting the forward surface of the arms 869 of the first latch body 842.

[0191] In addition, a biasing member such as a compression spring 888 is disposed in the channel of the button 849A and / or is compressed between the wall of the button 849A and the structure of the mounting body 847 that extends into the channel of the button 849A when the button is pushed forward (e.g., downward in the page). The spring force of the spring 888 biases the arms 869 over the protrusion 849C of the arms 849B. Figure 27 In addition, a biasing member such as a compression spring 888 is disposed in the channel of the button 849A and / or is compressed between the wall of the button 849A and the structure of the mounting body 847 that extends into the channel of the button 849A when the button is pushed forward (e.g., downward in the page). The spring force of the spring 888 biases the arms 869 over the protrusion 849C of the arms 849B.​

[0192] Button portion 849A is used specifically as a release button. When button 849A is pushed forward (e.g., when latch assembly 816 is secured to prosthetic foot 10, toward the distal end of prosthetic foot 10), button arm 849B slides with button 849A, releasing arm 869 from notch 871, which allows lever 816A to pivot forward about lip 854 and be lifted away from mounting body 847 to unlock latch assembly 816.

[0193] In particular, latch assembly 816 includes a tension adjustment device, similar to tension adjustment device 500 described with respect to latch assembly 516, including a threaded adjustment screw extending longitudinally within lever 816A (e.g., within channel 894 of first latch body 842 as shown Figure 29 and engaging an interior transverse wall 880 of first latch body 842 (shown in hidden line in FIG. 16B) to adjust the overall distance between front end 828 and back end 830 in the latched position. Because strap 18 is connected to second latch body 844 through slot 819, the tension in strap 18 is increased or decreased by the tension adjustment device. The back end of the screw has a socket at which the adjustment screw can be engaged with a tool to move the screw back and forth along the longitudinal axis of lever 816A. As shown in FIG. 16B, second latch body 844 has a back window 807 through which the socket can be accessed. Figure 29 Figure 28

[0194] Figure 32 is a top perspective partial view of a mobile support device (particularly in the form of prosthetic foot 910) and a floor 914 of a traction system that extends beneath prosthetic foot 910 and around and above distal end 38 of prosthetic foot 910.

[0195] Figure 33 is a bottom perspective partial view of prosthetic foot 910 and floor 914 of Figure 32 Prosthetic foot 910 has a through hole 913 that extends completely through prosthetic foot 910 from bottom side 27 to top side 23. Floor 914 has at least one mount 917 that extends from the top surface of floor 914 through through hole 913, a portion of mount 917 protruding above floor 914.

[0196] ​​The protruding portion of the mounting 917 can be configured to connect to a latch assembly (not shown) to secure the latch assembly on the top side 23 of the prosthetic foot piece 910 with the strap 18 connected to the latch assembly and the bottom plate 914. For example, fastener openings can extend through the protruding portion to attach the latch assembly to the protruding portion. In this way, different latch assemblies, such as different spring-biased pull-type latch assemblies, can be used with the prosthetic foot piece 910 and the bottom plate 914 to tighten the strap 18 and secure the bottom plate 914 to the distal end 38 and the bottom side 27 of the prosthetic foot piece 910. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the mounting 917 can instead be used as a strap mounting, with the slot in the mounting 917 configured to receive the strap 18 when the bottom plate 914 is coupled to the prosthetic foot piece 910.

[0197] Figure 34 is a top perspective partial view of a mobile support device, particularly in the form of a prosthetic foot piece 1010, a bottom plate 1014 of a traction system extending under the prosthetic foot piece 1010, and a mounting 1017 secured to the top side 23 of the prosthetic foot piece 1010. The bottom plate 1014 is shown extending under the bottom side 27 (see Figure 35 ) of the prosthetic foot piece 1010 and extending around and over the distal end 38 of the prosthetic foot piece 1010. As shown in Figure 35 , the bottom plate 1014 has slots 1015 near the opposite sides of the bottom plate 1014 and near the proximal edge 1039 of the bottom plate 1014. A single strap 18 or two separate straps 18 can extend through the slots 1015 and under the protruding portion of the mounting 1017 (e.g., between the mounting 1017 and the top side 23 of the prosthetic foot piece 1010) to secure the bottom plate 1014 to the prosthetic foot piece 1010. Alternatively, a latch assembly can be secured to the latch mounting 1017 and the strap 18 can be secured to the latch assembly.

[0198] Figure 36 is a top perspective partial view of the prosthetic foot piece 1010 with the traction system 1012 including the bottom plate 1014 (shown as only partially secured to the prosthetic foot piece 1010) and a latch assembly 1016. The latch assembly 1016 includes a latch mounting 1016B secured to the top side 23 of the prosthetic foot piece 1010 and a lever 1016A latched to the latch mounting 1016B. More specifically, the front lip 54 of the first latch body 1042 of the lever 1016A is captured in the front catch 1032, similar to the way the lip 54 of the lever 16A is captured in the front catch 32.

[0199] The second latch body 1044 is secured to the first latch body 1042 according to any of the ways discussed with respect to the second latch body being secured to any latch assembly of the spring-biased pull type latch configured as discussed herein and having a rear end 1030 biased away from the front end 28 by a biasing member such as any of the springs discussed herein. The second latch body 1044 has side wings 1045 each having a slotted through hole 1045A extending therethrough. The strap 18 (not shown in FIG. 10) can extend from the slot 1015 of the base plate 1014 and through the through hole 1045A of the second latch body 1044, which will pull the base plate 1014 toward the bottom side of the prosthetic foot piece 1010. Thus, the securing latch assembly 1016 tensions the strap 18. Figure 36

[0200] Figure 37 is an exploded side view of a traction system 1112 for a mobile support device, particularly in the form of a prosthetic foot piece 1110. The traction system 1112 includes a base plate 1114, which is configured similar to the base plate 14, except that the base plate 1114 has externally threaded posts 1135 extending from the top side 1029 of the base plate 1014.

[0201] The traction system 1112 also includes at least one internally threaded securing member, such as an internally threaded knob 1116, and / or at least one tether 1118 to hold the knob to the prosthetic foot piece 1110. The base plate 1114 is couplable to the distal end 38 of the prosthetic foot piece 1110 to extend below the bottom side of the prosthetic foot piece 1110 and forward and partially above the distal end 38. After the base plate 1114 is coupled to the distal end 38, the knob 1116 is securable to the externally threaded posts 1135 by turning the handle portion 1116B of the knob 1116 to thread the internally threaded opening 1117 in the handle portion 1116A of the knob 1116 onto the posts 1135.

[0202] The prosthetic foot piece 1110 defines at least one through hole 1113 extending through the prosthetic foot piece from the bottom side to the top side of the prosthetic foot piece 1110. When the base plate 1114 is coupled to the distal end 38 of the prosthetic foot piece 1110, the threaded posts 1135 extend through the through hole 1113 and at least partially into the handle portion 1116A of the knob 1116. When the knob 1116 is secured to the threaded posts 1135, the base plate 1114 is held against the bottom side of the prosthetic foot piece 1110.

[0203] ​To help retain the knob 1116 on the prosthetic foot plate 1110, e.g., when tightening and loosening the knob 1116, the traction system 1112 specifically includes a tether 1118 having a first hole 1118A through which a handle portion 1116A of the knob 1116 extends. A loop 1120 formed by the tether 1118 around the hole 1118A can be seated in an annular groove 1116C in an outer surface of the handle portion 1116A of the knob 1116 (see Figure 37 ). A loop 1122 formed by the tether 1118 around a hole 1118B can be secured to the prosthetic foot plate 1110 with a fastener 1124, e.g., a bolt or a clasp, that fastens to another fastener or fastener portion that is secured to the prosthetic foot plate 1110, as shown in Figure 38 . In this way, during the process of securing and unsecuring the knob 1116 to the threaded post 1135, the tether 1118 remains to the prosthetic foot plate 1110 at the loop 1122, and the knob 1116 remains to the tether 1118.

[0204] Figure 39 Another example of a tether 1218 that can be used with the knob 1116 of Figure 37-38 is shown to secure the knob 1116 to the prosthetic foot plate 1110. The tether 1218 is secured to the top side of the prosthetic foot plate 1110 with a fastener 1137 that extends through a strap portion 1218C of the tether 1218. The strap portion 1218C is configured with a permanent fold 1219 that folds the strap portion 1218C in half toward the threaded post 1135 so that the knob 1116 is retained near the post 1135. The shown loop 1218A has a gripping feature in the form of a radially extending rib that interferes with a similar gripping feature on the knob 1116 to help prevent accidental loosening of the knob 1116. In Figure 39 , a portion of the hand 1119 is shown in phantom lifting the tether 1218 at the fold 1219.

[0205] Figure 40This is an exploded perspective top view showing the movable support device (partially in the form of a prosthetic footplate 1310) and the base plate 1314 of the traction system 1312, which specifically includes at least one angled threaded tool 1335, such as an externally threaded post, and at least one internally threaded fixing member (such as an internally threaded knob 1316) that can be fastened to the tool 1335. A boss 1341 extends from the top side of the prosthetic footplate 1310 and also extends through a through-hole 1313 in the prosthetic footplate 1310. The longitudinal axis LA of the through-hole 1313 forms an acute angle B with the top side 23 of the prosthetic footplate 1310 (taken from the position where the through-hole 1313 extends beyond the top side 23). In other words, the through-hole 1313 is inclined rearward relative to the prosthetic footplate 1310 from the top side 23 towards the knob 1316.

[0206] like Figure 41 As shown, the through hole 1313 is an elongated opening extending along the length of the prosthetic foot piece 1310, so that an angled threaded tool 1335 can be easily inserted into the through hole 1313. Because the angled threaded tool 1335 is tilted backward, when the knob 1316 is tightened on the tool 1335, the tool 1335 will pull the base plate 1314 backward (e.g., away from the distal end 38), tightening the base plate 1314 onto the distal end 38 and the underside of the prosthetic foot piece 1310.

[0207] Figure 42 This is a partial perspective top view of the prosthetic foot piece 1310, showing a boss 1341 and a fixing member (knob 1316) fixed to the boss 1341. Figure 43 As best shown, the handle 1316A of the knob 1316 has an external thread 1360, and the knob 1316 includes a ring 1361 with an internal thread 1362, which is secured to the handle 1316A at the external thread 1360. The ring 1361 can be screwed onto the knob 1316 from below the prosthetic footplate 1310 through a through hole 1315, which is circular or large enough to allow the ring 1361 to be inserted. With the ring 1361 secured to the handle 1316A in the through hole 1315, the ring 1361 forms a flange 1365 larger than the knob opening 1366 to hold the knob 1316 to the boss 1341, even when a threading tool such as a threaded post 1135 is not threaded onto the knob 1316 at the thread opening 1117.

[0208] Figure 44 This is a top perspective partial view of the movable support device (particularly in the form of a prosthetic foot piece 1410). The prosthetic foot piece 1410 has at least one groove 1439 at its distal end 1438, which in particular forms a split toe, enhancing the flexibility of the prosthetic foot piece 1410.

[0209] The internally threaded boss 1441 is mounted or mountable to or integrally formed on the top side 23 of the prosthetic foot piece 1410. The internally threaded boss 1441 has a through hole 1413 that extends at an angle through the boss 1441 and from the top side 23 to the bottom side 27 of the prosthetic foot piece 1410, forming an oblong opening at the boss 1441. The traction system 1412 for the prosthetic foot piece 1410 includes a bottom plate 1414 having an opening 1415 configured to align with the opening of the through hole 1413 at the bottom side 27 of the prosthetic foot piece 10, as Figure 45 shown.

[0210] When the bottom plate 1414 is assembled on the distal end 1438, the opening 1415 receives one end of an externally threaded fastener 1417 that engages the boss 1441, the prosthetic foot piece 1410, and the bottom plate 1414 to secure the bottom plate 1414 on the distal end 1438 and the bottom side 27 of the prosthetic foot piece 1410. The bottom plate 1414 can have a peg mount on the bottom side to receive a peg, or an outsole secured to the bottom plate 1414 can have a mount to receive a peg. The fastener 1417 can be configured so that the same tool can be used to tighten and loosen the fastener 1417 and the peg.

[0211] Figure 46 is a rear perspective partial view of a mobile support device, in particular in the form of a prosthetic foot piece 1510, having at least one rear hook 1516 secured to or arranged on the bottom side 27 of the prosthetic foot piece 1510. The traction system 1512 for the prosthetic foot piece 1510 includes a bottom plate 1514 and the rear hooks 1516.

[0212] As Figure 47 shown, the bottom plate 1514 is configured to be assembled on the distal end 1538 of the prosthetic foot piece 1510, the attachment portion 1518 at the rear extent of the bottom plate 1514 having at least one hole 1520 at which the attachment portion 1518 fits over and hooks onto at least one corresponding rear hook 1516 to secure the bottom plate 1514 on the distal end 1538 and / or the bottom side 27 of the prosthetic foot piece 1510.

[0213] The rear hooks 1516 in particular have a triangular or prong shape, mounted at a base 1516A thereof closest to the distal end 1538 to form a gap 1519 disposed between the bottom side 27 of the prosthetic foot piece 1510 and the rear hooks 1516, and extending from an apex 1516B to the base 1516A. The attachment portion 1518 fits at least partially in the gap 1519, and can be slightly resilient, for example to stretch over the apex 1516B during attachment and removal of the bottom plate 1514.

[0214] Figure 48is a top perspective partial view of a mobile support device having one or more castellated side surfaces 1629, particularly in the form of a prosthetic foot piece 1610. More particularly, a series of regularly or irregularly spaced recesses 25A extend from the top side 23 to the bottom side 27 of the prosthetic foot piece 1610 on one or both sides, particularly on each side 25, proximate the distal end 1638 of the prosthetic foot piece 1610.

[0215] Figure 49 A traction system 1612 for the prosthetic foot piece 1610 is shown, including a bottom plate 1614 that fits over the bottom side 27 and distal end 1638 of the prosthetic foot piece 1610. The bottom plate 1614 extends under the bottom side 27 and around the side surfaces 1629, terminating in a top flange 1631 that extends inward, forming a throat. Each flange 1631 has a hole 1633.

[0216] At least one lace or other tensioning member 1616 is or can be routed through the holes 1633, and has ends 1616A, 1616B that can be secured to the prosthetic foot piece 1610 or to each other, to secure the lace 1616 and tighten the bottom plate 1614 on the prosthetic foot piece 1610.

[0217] In particular, the flanges 1631 are generally aligned with the recesses 25A, such that tightening the lace 1616 tightens the bottom plate 1614 into the recesses 25A, which act as a waist, preventing the bottom plate 1614 from sliding down from the distal end 1638 during use.

[0218] Figure 50 is a partial top view of a traction system 1712 having a bottom plate 1714 configured to be secured to Figure 52 the distal end 1738 of a prosthetic foot piece 1710 of FIG. 1. The bottom plate 1714 particularly includes a top cap portion 1731 having an outer surface 1732 with a transversely flexing groove 1734. The top cap portion 1731 forms a cavity 1737 over the top side 1714A of the bottom plate 1714. The bottom or outer side of the bottom plate 1714 acts as an outsole 1724 and / or can be configured with various protrusions to achieve a desired traction capability. As Figure 52 shown, the prosthetic foot piece 1710 particularly has a form 1720 proximate the distal end 1638 that is configured to at least partially fit within Figure 51 the cavity 1737 shown.

[0219] The top cap portion 1731 can have some flexibility to fit over the form 1720 by a force fit. The top side 1714A of the bottom plate 1714 can have features that interfit with complementary features of the bottom side 27 of the prosthetic foot piece 1710. For example, the top side 1714A can have one or more protrusions that at least partially fit into one or more cavities of the bottom side 27 of the prosthetic foot piece 1710.

[0220] In particular, the tip 1739 of the cover portion 1731 can be used to pull the chassis 1714 onto or off the prosthetic foot piece 1710. The one or more flex grooves 1734 increase the flexibility of the cover portion 1731 in the longitudinal direction to match the flexing of the prosthetic foot piece 1710 during use.

[0221] Figure 53 is a partial top view of a traction system 1812, Figure 54 is a partial side view of the traction system 1812 having an alternative chassis 1814 for moving a support device, in particular for a prosthetic foot piece 1710 in the form of Figure 52 Like the chassis 1714, the chassis 1814 includes a cover portion 1831. The cover portion 1831 can include a flap 1831A made of a relatively hard material for providing additional support around the lower portion of the cover portion 1831.

[0222] The bottom side of the chassis 1814 serves as an outsole 1824 and / or can be configured with various protrusions to achieve a desired traction capability. The cover portion 1831 defines a cavity 1837 similar to the cavity 1737, in particular on the top side 1814A of the chassis 1814. The form 1720 of the prosthetic foot piece 1710 fits in the cavity 1837.

[0223] The at least one tensioning member, such as the lace 1816, in particular extends through one or more loops 1833 forming lace receiving holes. In particular, the cord lock clevis fastener 1818 can latch the lace 1816 in place to secure the chassis 1814 to the prosthetic foot piece 1710 and / or can be depressed to allow the lace 1816 to be loosened to release the chassis 1814 from the prosthetic foot piece 1710.

[0224] Figure 55 is a rear perspective view of the prosthetic foot piece 10 described herein with at least one latching assembly 1916 mounted on the bottom side 27. The latching assembly 1916 in particular includes at least one latching mount 1935 mounted to the bottom side 27, a first latching body 1942 having a hook-shaped end portion 1942A, and a second latching body 1944. In particular, the latching assembly 1916 is shown in a latched position with the second latching body 1944 pivoted rearward. To unlatch the latching assembly 1916, the end portion 1944A of the second latching body 1944 can be lifted and pushed forward, causing the second latching body 1944 to pivot about the pivot axis PA and causing the first latching body 1942 to move distally 38.

[0225] The traction system 1912 for the prosthetic foot piece 10 includes Figure 56 the chassis 1914 and the latching assembly 1916. As Figure 56As shown, the chassis 1914 has at least one hole 1945, particularly near the proximal end 1929 of the chassis 1914. Specifically, the chassis 1914 is configured such that when the distal end 38 of the prosthetic foot piece 10 is fitted over the inner surface of the front wall 33 of the chassis 1914, and the toe 36 portion extends partially over the top side 23, the hook end 1942A can extend through the hole 1945.

[0226] When the second latch body 1944 is pivoted to or toward the latched position Figure 55 , the hook end 1942A grabs the edge 1914A of the chassis 1914 at the hole 1945, essentially pulling the chassis 1914 upward and against the bottom side 27 of the prosthetic foot piece 10, to secure the chassis 1914 to the distal end 38 and the bottom side 27 of the prosthetic foot piece 10, as shown. Figure 57

[0227] The middle portion 1914B of the chassis 1914 can be thinner and / or more flexible than the portion 1914C to which the outsole (not shown) is attached, in order to facilitate the ability of the latch assembly 1916 to easily secure to the chassis 1914 and / or the ability of the chassis 1914 to flex with the prosthetic foot piece 10 during use.

[0228] Figure 58 is a rear view of a mobile support device (particularly in the form of a prosthetic foot piece 10) having a traction system 2012 including at least one latch assembly 2016 and a chassis 2014. The latch assembly 2016 is mounted or mountable to the bottom side 27 of the prosthetic foot piece 10, and is shown in a latched position to secure the chassis 2014 and / or pull the chassis 2014 toward the distal end 38 and the bottom side 27.

[0229] Specifically, the chassis 2014 includes at least one rib strap portion 2014A at or near the proximal end. The latch assembly 2016 includes at least one latch body 2042 that interfaces with the strap portion 2014A and / or with the latch body 2044 secured to the prosthetic foot piece 10.

[0230] At least one release 2046 can be depressed to release the strap portion 2014A from the latch assembly 2016. The chassis 2014 includes at least one ribbed portion 2014B that increases the ability of the chassis 2014 to flex with the prosthetic foot piece 10 during use.

[0231] Figure 59 is a front view of a mobile support device (particularly in the form of a prosthetic foot piece 10) and a traction system 2112 for the prosthetic foot piece 10, the traction system 2112 including a chassis 2114 and a latch assembly 2116 secured to the top side 23 of the prosthetic foot piece 10. The chassis 2114 is shown latched to the prosthetic foot piece 10 by the latch assembly 2116.​

[0232] In particular, the latch assembly 2116 includes a crossbar 2116A that is pulled substantially inward and / or rearward when the latch body 2142 is pivoted rearward about the pivot axis PA relative to the latch mount 2135, to which the latch body 2142 is pivotally mounted. The chassis 2114 has one or more stepped shoulders 2118 that extend at the lateral side 25 of the prosthetic foot 10 above the top side 23. The stepped shoulders 2118 in particular have one or more forward hooking portions 2118A that hook the crossbar 2116A such that the crossbar 2116A pushes the chassis 2114 rearward and upward against the distal end 38 and the bottom side 27 of the prosthetic foot 10. The chassis 2114 also has castellated side walls 2114A.

[0233] Figure 60 is a partial rear perspective view of a mobile support device, in particular in the form of a prosthetic foot 10, having one or more circular through-holes 2213A proximate the distal end 38 and / or one or more slot-shaped through-holes 2213B further away from the distal end 38 than the through-holes 2213B. The one or more slot-shaped through-holes 2213B are elongated in a direction along the length of the prosthetic foot 10.

[0234] Figure 61 is a front perspective view of a traction system 2212 for the prosthetic foot 10. The traction system 2212 includes a chassis 2214 configured to be secured to Figure 60 the prosthetic foot 10 of FIG. 22. The chassis 2214 has externally threaded posts 2235 extending from a top side 2229 of the chassis 1014. In addition, internally threaded knobs 2216 are held in proximity to each post 2235 by a tether 2218. The posts 2235 are spaced apart from each other at the same pitch as the through-holes 2213A, 2213B such that when the chassis 2214 is positioned on the bottom side 27 of the prosthetic foot 10, the posts 2235 extend through the through-holes 2213A, 2213B with a distal end 2236 of the chassis 2214 aligned with the distal end 38 of the prosthetic foot 10. Alternatively, the distal end 2236 can be configured to have a toe similar to the toe 36 to fit over the distal end 38. Given the curvature of the prosthetic foot 10 and the length of the posts 2235, the elongated through-holes 2213B facilitate fitting the chassis 2214 onto the prosthetic foot 10. Figure 62 Two of the four knobs 2216 that are threadably connected to respective posts 2235 are shown. When the knobs 2216 are threaded onto their respective posts 2235, the chassis 2214 is secured to the prosthetic foot 10 and pulled toward the bottom side 27 of the prosthetic foot 10.

[0235] Figure 63is a partial perspective view of prosthetic foot piece 10 in an unloaded state shown in partial view, with traction system 3012 coupled to prosthetic foot piece 10 through straps 18 and alternative latch assembly 3016. As described herein, traction system 3012 includes sole plate 14, outsole 24, and midsole 26. Alternative latch assembly 3016 is the same as latch assembly 16 of Figure 2 except that alternative latch mount 3016B is used in place of latch mount 16B, and has alternative latch mount 3035 in place of latch mount 35. Because latch base 3035 is disposed on top side 23 of prosthetic foot piece 10, it will be in compression when prosthetic foot piece 10 experiences longitudinal bending during dynamic loading. This configuration of latch base 3035 can flex in response to compression forces of prosthetic foot piece 10, for example when the wearer moves forward with prosthetic foot piece 10 in contact with the ground, reducing the compression resistance and associated shear forces on latch base 3035 compared to latch base 35 or another latch base having a uniform width and / or flexibility along its length and having the same overall length.

[0236] Figure 64 is a perspective view of latch mount 3016B. Latch base 3035 includes plate portion 3035A, anchor portion 3035B, and hinge portion 3035C flexibly connecting plate portion 3035A and anchor portion 3035B. Cover 3036 (not shown in Figure 63 ) covers anchor portion 3035B for aesthetic purposes to hide adhesive 3038 (shown in Figure 63 ), which can be applied to and mechanically secure anchor portion 3035B to prosthetic foot piece 10 as described herein.

[0237] As described with reference to Figure 13 and 14 , front clasp 32 and rear clasp 34 are secured to plate portion 3035A by fasteners extending through fastener openings 114 (shown in Figure 69 ). Figure 69 Fastener openings 114 and alignment features 116B in plate portion 3035A are shown.

[0238] As Figure 63As shown, the hinge portion 3035C extends rearward over the top side 23 of the prosthetic foot piece 10 from the plate portion 3035A, and the anchor portion 3035B is disposed rearward of the hinge portion 3035C. As described herein, the anchor portion 3035B is secured relative to the top side 23 of the prosthetic foot piece 10 by the adhesive 3038 to mechanically secure the latch base 3035 to the prosthetic foot piece 10. The hinge portion 3035C is disposed over the top side 23 of the prosthetic foot piece 10 and is not secured thereto. In the illustrated example, the hinge portion 3035C is simply a single strip that connects the plate portion 3035A and the anchor portion 3035B.

[0239] As Figure 69 shown, the hinge portion 3035C is narrower than the plate portion 3035A, and also narrower than the anchor portion 3035B. For example, the hinge portion 3035C has a width W1, the plate portion 3035A has a width W2, and the anchor portion 3035B has a width W3. Both widths W2 and W3 are greater than the width W1, where the widths are measured along a transverse axis T that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L. Further, the anchor portion 3035B has a length LI that is shorter than a length L2 of the plate portion 3035A, and both of these lengths are less than a total length L3 of the latch base 35.

[0240] The latch base 3035 can include a composite material, such as at least one of a carbon fiber composite material, a glass fiber composite material, or a carbon-glass fiber composite material. In the illustrated example, the latch base 3035 includes layers of a composite material, with fewer layers at the hinge portion 3035C than at the plate portion 3035A and / or the anchor portion 3035B, at least partially accounting for its greater flexibility than the plate portion 3035A and / or the anchor portion 3035B. For example, the latch base 3035 can include at least one layer of a composite sheet material at the hinge portion 3035C, and a greater number of layers of the composite sheet material at the anchor portion 3035B and the plate portion 3035A. Referring to Figure 67 , a single sheet 3039 of the composite sheet material can extend in each of the plate portion 3035A, the hinge portion 3035C, and the anchor portion 3035B, while additional layers 3041, 3042 of the composite sheet material can be attached to the single sheet 3039 at the top side, the bottom side, or both the top and bottom sides of the single sheet 3039 at the plate portion 3035A and the anchor portion 3035B. Figure 67 The single sheet 3039, as well as the additional layers 3041 and 3042, are schematically represented.

[0241] These features enable the hinge portion 3035C to be relatively flexible and soft, and allow the plate portion 3035A and the anchor portion 3035B to move relative to each other (e.g., by folding the hinge portion 3035C), and prevent the compressive force exerted by the flexed prosthetic footplate 10 from extending completely through the latch base 3035 from the front of the plate portion 3035A to the rear of the anchor portion 3035B.

[0242] Figure 65 This is a partial perspective view of the prosthetic footpiece 10 in a relatively unloaded state. Figure 66 This is a partial perspective view of the prosthetic footplate 10 in a relatively loaded state. For example, the relatively unloaded state could be when the wearer is standing still, while the relatively loaded state could be when the wearer moves forward and the prosthetic footplate 10 contacts the ground, resulting in a higher load. Figure 65 As shown, when the prosthetic foot piece 10 is in a relatively unloaded state, the hinge portion 3035C is at least partially spaced from the top side 23 of the prosthetic foot piece 10. More specifically, in Figure 65 In a relatively unloaded state, a gap G exists between at least a portion of the bottom side 3037 of the hinge portion 3035C and the top side 23 of the prosthetic foot piece 10. The hinge portion 3035C flexes to move from being separated by the gap G to being... Figure 66 The top side 23 of the prosthetic footplate 10 in a relatively loaded state contacts (e.g., gap G along) Figure 65 The portion of the bottom side 3037 that is separated from the top side 23 disappears. Due to the height difference of the plate portion 3035A above the top side 23 (which may be due to the additional layer at the plate portion 3035A and / or due to the compressible layer 3050 discussed herein), the hinge portion 3035C can still be separated from the top side 23 immediately adjacent to the plate portion 3035A.

[0243] Figure 67 It is along Figure 64 The cross-sectional view taken along lines 67-67 shows the latch base 3035, the compressible layer 3050 which can be disposed between the plate portion 3035A and the top side 23 of the prosthetic foot piece 10, and the double-sided adhesive layer 3052, such as the double-sided adhesive tape 3052 which is fixed to the bottom side 3055 of the compressible layer 3050 and can be fixed to the top side 23 of the prosthetic foot piece 10 (see...). Figure 66 ), latches 32, 34 and cover 3036.

[0244] Figure 68 yes Figure 67 An exploded view of a portion of the latch mount 3016B, showing Figure 67The compressible layer 3050 is secured to the bottom side 3040 of the plate portion 3035A and is disposed on the top side 23 of the prosthetic foot 10 when the latch base 3035 is secured to the prosthetic foot 10. For example, the compressible layer 3050 can include foam. The compressible layer 3050 allows the plate portion 3035A to effectively float above the top side 23 of the prosthetic foot 10 because the compressible layer 3050 can elastically compress during longitudinal flexing of the prosthetic foot 10, minimizing compressive forces of the prosthetic foot 10 that are transmitted to the plate portion 3035A.

[0245] In another example, the compressible layer 3050 is not secured to the top side 23 by the double-sided tape 3052 or other adhesive fastener or other securing feature, but only the tensioning strap 18 holds the compressible layer 3050 against the top side 23. Thus, in such an example, the compressible layer 3050 is not secured to the prosthetic foot 10, but is held against the top side 23 by tension in the strap 18 when the lever 16A is latched onto the latch mount 3016B. In yet another example, instead of the double-sided tape 3052, an adhesive, such as a liquid adhesive, can be applied between the top side 23 of the prosthetic foot 10 and the bottom side 3055 of the compressible layer 3050.

[0246] Because the compressible layer 3050 is not secured to and does not extend under the hinge portion 3035C, the plate portion 3035A is spaced further above the top side 23 than the hinge portion 3035C, creating a flexure 3058. The flexure 3058 can be referred to as a pre-flexure because it exists even when the prosthetic foot 10 is in a relatively unloaded state. The flexure 3058 encourages the latch base 3035 to flex at the flexure 3058 during dynamic loading of the prosthetic foot 10.

[0247] Figure 69 is Figure 68 a plan view of the latch base 3035. The latch base 3035 includes a through-hole 3060 that extends through the anchor portion 3035B. Reference is made to Figure 65 and 67When the latch base 3035 is secured to the prosthetic foot piece 10, the adhesive 3038 extends on the top side 23 of the prosthetic foot piece 10 below the anchoring portion 3035B, passes through the anchoring portion 3035B at the through hole 3060, and extends on at least a portion of the top surface 3062 of the anchoring portion 3035B. The adhesive 3038 also extends on the bottom side 3043 of the latch base 3035 at the anchoring portion 3035B (e.g., between the anchoring portion 3035B and the top side 23 of the prosthetic foot piece 10). Since the adhesive 3038 extends not only between the bottom side 3043 of the latch base 3035 and the top side 23 of the prosthetic foot piece 10, but also through the latch base 3035 and reaches the top surface 3062 of the latch base 3035, the adhesive 3038 functions as a mechanical attachment, such as a fastener.

[0248] refer to Figure 69 and 72 On the other hand, adhesive 3038 may further extend around one or more outer edges 3066, 3068, and 3070 of the anchoring portion 3035B, such as around the top edge 3066 and the side edges 3068 and 3070 (in Figure 69 As shown in and Figure 72 The anchor portion 3035B is covered by adhesive 3038, which thus forms a three-sided or T-shaped stop. Adhesive 3038 serves as a mechanical end stop at the outer edges 3066, 3068, and 3070 of the anchor portion 3035B. Additionally, adhesive 3038 can extend onto the top surface 3062 of the anchor portion 3035B and can be connected to adhesive 3038 around the edges 3066, 3068, and 3070. Figure 72 It is a partial perspective view of the prosthetic foot piece 10, including the adhesive 3038 that mechanically secures the anchoring portion 3035B to the prosthetic foot piece 10 in the first arrangement.

[0249] Non-limiting examples of adhesive 3038 described herein include polyurethane adhesives and epoxy adhesives. For example, 3M adhesives can be used. TM Scotch-weld TM Polyurethane adhesive DP640, 3M TM Scotch-Weld TM Epoxy adhesive DP420 or 3M TM Scotch-Weld TM Any of the epoxy adhesives DP125, and available from 3M Company in St. Paul, Minnesota, USA.

[0250] Figure 70 It is used for Figure 63A plan view of the alternative latch base 4035 to the latch assembly 3016. The alternative latch base 4035 is similar to the latch base 3035 in all respects except for the absence of the through hole 3060. To secure the anchoring portion 3035B of the latch base 4035 to the top side 23 of the prosthetic foot piece 10, adhesive 3038 may be provided on the top side 23 along one or more outer edges of the anchoring portion 3035B, such as the rear edge 3066 (also referred to as the top edge 3066) of the anchoring portion 3035B behind the rear latch 34, and along the side edges 3068, 3070. Figure 70 The outer edges 3066, 3068 and 3070 shown are Figure 73 Adhesive 3038 is used to cover the contents. Figure 73 This is a partial perspective view of the prosthetic foot piece 10 including adhesive 3038, in which adhesive 3038 mechanically secures the anchoring portion 3035B to the prosthetic foot piece 10 in a second arrangement.

[0251] Figure 71 It is used for Figure 74 The plan view of the alternative latch base 5035 of the latch assembly 5016 shown, except that it is similar to... Figure 63 The latch assembly 3016 is identical. Instead of the hinge portion 3035C configured as a single strip, the latch base 5035 has a hinge portion 5035C comprising two strips 5035C1 and 5035C2 that are laterally spaced from each other and connect the plate portion 3035A and the anchoring portion 3035B. A hole 5068 is formed between and spaces apart the strips 5035C1 and 5035C2. Similar to Figure 67 The through-hole 3060 can extend through the anchoring portion 3035B. The number of through-holes 3060 can be the same as the number in the latch base 3035, or there can be more. Figure 71 The through hole 3060 is not shown in the diagram, but it is present in the diagram. Figure 74 A 3060 through-hole has been added. Figure 74 A latch base 5035 is shown, which is fixed to the top side 23 of the prosthetic foot piece 10 with adhesive 3038.

[0252] Adhesive 3038 is applied between the bottom side of the latch base 5035 and the top side 23 of the prosthetic foot piece 10 and extends between them, through the through hole 3060 of the latch base 5035 and reaching the top surface 5062 of the latch base 5035. Adhesive 3038 also extends around the outer edges 3066, 3068, 3070 and 5072 of the anchoring portion 3035B, for example around the top edge 3066, the side edges 3068, 3070 and the edge 5072 at the hole 5068 (e.g.) Figure 71 As shown, and by Figure 74adhesive 3038 covering). Thus, the adhesive 3038 forms a four-sided stop and acts as a mechanical attachment, such as a fastener.

[0253] Figure 75 is a schematic perspective partial view of the prosthetic foot piece 10 showing a step of placing the latch mount 3016B at a location 3071 on the top side 23 of the prosthetic foot piece 10. For example, as shown by arrow 3073, the latch mount 3016B is moved into proximity with the prosthetic foot piece 10 such that the double-sided tape 3052 is disposed at the location 3071 on the top side 23.

[0254] Figure 76 is a schematic perspective partial view of the prosthetic foot piece 10 showing another step of securing the latch mount 3016B to the prosthetic foot piece 10 by pressing the latch mount 3016B and the prosthetic foot piece 10 together as shown by arrow 3075, thereby pressing the double-sided tape 3052 against the top side 23 of the prosthetic foot piece 10.

[0255] Figure 77 is a schematic perspective partial view of the prosthetic foot piece 10 showing another step of securing the latch mount 3016B to the prosthetic foot piece 10 by mechanically securing the anchor portion 3035B of the latch base 3035 to the prosthetic foot piece 10, with the adhesive 3038 disposed on the bottom side of the anchor portion 3035B that will be disposed on the top side 23 of the prosthetic foot piece 10, the hand 3072 shown in phantom as described herein.

[0256] Figure 78 is a schematic perspective partial view of the prosthetic foot piece 10 showing another step of securing the latch mount 3016B to the prosthetic foot piece 10 by further mechanically securing the anchor portion 3035B of the latch base 3035 to the prosthetic foot piece 10 by disposing adhesive 3038 along the outer edges 3066, 3068, and 3070 of the anchor portion 3035B. The adhesive 3038 disposed on the bottom side of the anchor portion 3035B also extends through the through hole 3060 onto the top face 3062, and / or additional adhesive 3038 can be disposed on the top face 3062.

[0257] Figure 2 is a plan view of the bottom side of an alternative latch base 6035 for the latch assembly 6016, which is identical to the latch assembly 16 of Figure 14 except that the latch base 6035 replaces the latch base 35. The latch base 6035 is a flat plate identical to the latch base 35 of Figure 80 except that the through hole 3060 is added. The fasteners 6020 are disposed at the fastener openings 114 (only some of which are labeled). The catches 32, 34 are fastened to the latch base 6035 by the fasteners 6020 at the fastener openings 114, as described above with respect toFigure 80 Some of the through-holes 3060 are disposed forward of the front clasp 32 and some are disposed rearward of the rear clasp 34.

[0258] Adhesive 3038 is disposed on the bottom side of the latch base 6035 (e.g., between the latch base 6035 and the top side 23 of the prosthetic foot 10). The adhesive 3038 extends through the through-holes 3060 to the top side of the latch base 6035. As shown, the adhesive 3038 is also disposed around the outer edge 5066 of the latch base 6035, rearward of the rear clasp 34. The adhesive 3038 disposed in these locations mechanically secures the latch base 6035 to the prosthetic foot 10 and acts as a mechanical stop. Thus, by adding the through-holes 3060 and the adhesive 3038 as described above, the flat latch base 6035 better withstands compressive forces resulting from dynamic loading of the prosthetic foot 10. Figure 81

[0259] Figure 82 is an alternative latch base 7035 for the latch assembly 7016 shown in Figure 2 Figure 82 the same as the latch assembly 16 of FIG. 1, except for the alternative latch base 7035 in place of the latch base 35. The latch base 7035 is referred to as a split latch base because it includes a front segment 7035A and a rear segment 7035B, with the rear edge 7066 of the front segment 7035A physically separated from the front edge 7068 of the rear segment 7035B. Splitting the latch base 7035 with a transverse split reduces the length of the prosthetic foot 10 that extends along each segment of the latch base 7035. Although the overall length of the latch base 7035 can be the same as if there were no transverse split (e.g., as if the segments 7035A, 7035B were integral), the shorter segments experience lower compressive forces than the longer segments during, for example, dynamic loading of the prosthetic foot 10. The latch base 7035 also includes a plurality of through-holes 3060.

[0260] Figure 82 ​​is a partial perspective view of prosthetic foot piece 10 and latch assembly 7016 in the latched position, and includes an alternative latch base 7035. Segments 7035A, 7035B are adhered to the top side 23 of prosthetic foot piece 10, with edges 7066, 7068 abutting as shown. Alternatively, edges 7066 and 7068 can be spaced slightly apart from each other. Adhesive 3038 is disposed on the bottom side of latch base 7035 (e.g., between segments 7035A, 7035B and the top side 23 of prosthetic foot piece 10), and extends through through-hole 3060 to the top side of segments 7035A, 7035B, mechanically securing latch base 7035 to prosthetic foot piece 10. Adhesive 3038 is also disposed around the front edge 7067 of latch base 7035 forward of front catch 32 and the rear edge 7069 of latch base 7035 rearward of rear catch 34. As shown, adhesive 3038 creates a mechanical stop at edges 7067 and 7069. ​

[0261] The following clauses provide example configurations of the prosthetic piece traction systems disclosed herein.

[0262] Clause 1. A traction system for a mobile support device, the traction system comprising: a chassis couplable to a distal end of a mobile support device to extend below a bottom side of the mobile support device; a latch assembly comprising: a front catch and a rear catch, both of which are securable to a top side of the mobile support device, the front catch being closer to the distal end of the mobile support device than the rear catch, and a lever having a front end and a rear end, the front end releasably latchable to the front catch, the rear end releasably latchable to the rear catch when the lever is pivoted about the front end of the latch; and a strap secured to the lever and the chassis, the strap being in tension when the chassis is connected to the distal end of the mobile support device and the lever is latched at the front end and the rear end, the strap drawing the chassis toward the distal end and the bottom side of the mobile support device.

[0263] Clause 2. The traction system of clause 1, wherein the strap extends through the lever between the front end and the rear end.

[0264] Clause 3. The traction system of any one of clauses 1-2, further comprising: at least one underlayer secured to the bottom side of the chassis and comprising a ground- engaging traction surface; and wherein the strap is secured to the bottom side of the chassis between the chassis and the at least one underlayer.

[0265] Clause 4. The traction system of any one of clauses 1-3, wherein the chassis has a front wall disposed forward of the distal end of the mobile support device when the chassis is connected to the mobile support device, and a toe extending rearward from the front wall above the top side of the mobile support device.

[0266] ​Clause 5. The traction system of any one of clauses 1-4, wherein the bottom wall of the floor is sufficiently flexible to move from a relatively flat condition to a relatively curved condition to conform to a curvature of the bottom side of the mobile support device when the strap is in the tensioned condition.

[0267] Clause 6. The traction system of any one of clauses 1-5, wherein the front catch defines a front pocket facing the opening of the rear catch, and the rear catch defines a rear pocket facing the opening of the front catch; and the front end of the lever includes a front lip that is captured in the front pocket when the front end is latched to the front catch, and the rear end of the lever includes a rear lip that is captured in the rear pocket when the rear end is latched to the rear catch.

[0268] Clause 7. The traction system of any one of clauses 1-6, wherein the lever includes: a first latching body including the front end of the lever; a second latching body coupled to the first latching body and including the rear end of the lever; and a biasing member engaging the first latching body and the second latching body and biasing the front end away from the rear end, the front end being movable toward the rear end to release the lever from the rear catch under a force opposite the force of the biasing member.

[0269] Clause 8. The traction system of clause 7, wherein the first latching body includes an intermediate wall disposed rearward of the front end, the second latching body includes a protrusion disposed between the front end and the intermediate wall, and the biasing member is disposed between the rear end and the intermediate wall and forces the intermediate wall against the protrusion.

[0270] Clause 9. The traction system of clause 7, wherein: the first latching body includes a side wall; the second latching body includes a side wall disposed adjacent the side wall of the first latching body; and the side wall of one of the first latching body and the second latching body includes a flange and the side wall of the other of the first latching body and the second latching body includes a slot, the flange fitting within the slot.

[0271] Clause 10. The traction system of any one of clauses 1-9, further comprising: an adjustment screw extending longitudinally within the lever and connected with the strap; and wherein a position of the adjustment screw is adjustable to adjust a tension in the strap when the lever is latched at the front end and the rear end.

[0272] Clause 11. The traction system of any one of clauses 1-10, wherein: the latching assembly further includes a latching base securable to a top side of the mobile support device; and the front catch and the rear catch are secured to the latching base.

[0273] Clause 12. The traction system of clause 11, wherein a portion of the latching base extends forward of the front catch along the top side of the mobile support device.

[0274] Clause 13. The traction system of clause 11, wherein: the latch base comprises a plate portion, an anchor portion, and a hinge portion flexibly connecting the plate portion and the anchor portion; the front catch and the rear catch are fixed to the plate portion; the anchor portion is fixed relative to the top side of the mobile support device when the latch base is fixed to the mobile support device, and the hinge portion is not fixed to the top side of the mobile support device.

[0275] Clause 14. The traction system of clause 13, wherein: the hinge portion is at least partially spaced apart from the top side of the mobile support device when the mobile support device is in the relative unloaded state, and optionally, the hinge portion is in contact with the top side of the mobile support device when the mobile support device is flexed in the relative loaded state.

[0276] Clause 15. The traction system of any one of clauses 13-14, wherein the hinge portion extends rearward from the plate portion over the top side of the mobile support device when the latch base is fixed to the mobile support device, and the anchor portion is disposed rearward of the hinge portion.

[0277] Clause 16. The traction system of any one of clauses 13-15, further comprising: a compressible layer fixed to the bottom side of the plate portion and disposed against the top side of the mobile support device when the latch base is fixed to the mobile support device.

[0278] Clause 17. The traction system of clause 16, wherein the compressible layer comprises a foam.

[0279] Clause 18. The traction system of any one of clauses 16-17, wherein the compressible layer is not fixed to the top side of the mobile support device when the lever is latched, and is held against the top side of the mobile support device by tension in the strap.

[0280] Clause 19. The traction system of any one of clauses 16-17, further comprising: a double-sided adhesive layer disposed between the compressible layer and the top side of the mobile support device and further securing the latch base to the mobile support device.

[0281] Clause 20. The traction system of any one of clauses 13-19, wherein the hinge portion is any one or both of narrower and thinner than the plate portion and the anchor portion.

[0282] Clause 21. The traction system of any one of clauses 13-20, wherein the anchor portion is shorter than the plate portion.

[0283] Clause 22. The traction system of any one of clauses 13-21, wherein the latch base comprises at least one of a carbon fiber composite material, a glass fiber composite material, or a carbon glass fiber composite material.

[0284] Clause 23. The towing system of any of clauses 13-22, wherein the latch base comprises at least one layer of composite sheet material at the hinge portion, and more layers of composite sheet material at the anchor portion and the plate portion.

[0285] Clause 24. The towing system of any of clauses 13-23, wherein the hinge portion comprises only a single strip connecting the plate portion and the anchor portion, or two or more strips laterally spaced apart from one another and connecting the plate portion and the anchor portion.

[0286] Clause 25. The towing system of any of clauses 13-24, wherein the anchor portion comprises a through hole, and further comprising: an adhesive that, when the latch base is secured to the mobile support device, extends between the anchor portion and a top side of the mobile support device, through the through hole, and over at least a portion of a top surface of the anchor portion.

[0287] Clause 26. The towing system of any of clauses 13-25, further comprising: an adhesive that, when the latch base is secured to the mobile support device, extends between the anchor portion and a top side of the mobile support device, and extends around an outer edge of the anchor portion.

[0288] Clause 27. The towing system of any of clauses 13-26, further comprising: a cover secured over the anchor portion.

[0289] Clause 28. The towing system of any of clauses 11-27, wherein the latch base has a through hole extending through the latch base, and further comprising: an adhesive that, when the latch base is secured to the mobile support device, extends through the through hole, and over at least a portion of a top surface of the latch base.

[0290] Clause 29. The towing system of any of clauses 11-28, wherein at least some of the through holes are disposed forward of the front lock catch, and / or at least some of the through holes are disposed rearward of the rear lock catch.

[0291] Clause 30. The towing system of any of clauses 11-29, further comprising: an adhesive disposed along a front edge of the latch base forward of the front lock catch and / or along a rear edge of the latch base rearward of the rear lock catch when the latch base is secured to the mobile support device.

[0292] Clause 31. The towing system of any of clauses 11-30, wherein the latch base comprises a front section and a rear section, a rear edge of the front section being separated from a front edge of the rear section.

[0293] Clause 32. The towing system of any of clauses 1-31, wherein the latch assembly is a spring-loaded, off-center pull latch.

[0294] Clause 33. The towing system of any of clauses 1-32, wherein the lever comprises a handle protruding at a rear end.

[0295] Clause 34. The traction system of any one of clauses 1-33, wherein the chassis defines an integral side clip that extends around opposing sides of the mobility support device and over a top side of the mobility support device when the chassis is coupled to the mobility support device.

[0296] Clause 35. The traction system of any one of clauses 1-34, wherein the mobility support device is one of a prosthetic foot piece or a crutch.

[0297] Clause 36. A traction system for a mobility support device, in particular the traction system according to any one of the preceding clauses, the traction system comprising: a chassis couplable to a distal end of the mobility support device to extend under a bottom side of the mobility support device; an attachment system comprising a threaded post extending from the chassis and a knob securable to an end of the threaded post; wherein the mobility support device defines a through-hole extending through the mobility support device from the bottom side to a top side of the mobility support device; and wherein the threaded post extends through the through-hole when the chassis is coupled to the distal end of the mobility support device, and the chassis is held against the bottom side of the mobility support device when the knob is secured to the threaded post.

[0298] Clause 37. The traction system of clause 36, further comprising: a tether secured to the knob and securable to the top side of the mobility support device to secure the knob to the mobility support device.

[0299] Clause 38. The traction system of clause 36, further comprising: a boss extending from the top side of the mobility support device; and wherein the through-hole extends through the boss, a longitudinal axis of the through-hole being at an acute angle to the top side of the mobility support device.

[0300] Clause 39. The traction system of clause 36, further comprising: a boss extending from the top side of the mobility support device; wherein the through-hole extends through the boss; and wherein the knob has a flange larger than a knob opening of the boss such that the knob is held by the boss regardless of whether the knob is secured to the end of the threaded post.

[0301] Clause 40. A traction system for a mobility support device, in particular the traction system according to any one of the preceding clauses, the traction system comprising: a latching assembly operable to latch a chassis to a distal end of the mobility support device, the latching assembly comprising: a latching base securable to a top side of the mobility support device; wherein the latching base comprises a plate portion, an anchor portion, and a hinge portion flexibly connecting the plate portion and the anchor portion; and wherein the anchor portion is securable relative to the top side of the mobility support device, and the hinge portion is disposed above the top side of the mobility support device and is not secured to the top side of the mobility support device when the latching base is secured to the mobility support device.

[0302] Clause 41. The traction system of clause 40, further comprising: a compressible layer disposed between the plate portion and the top side of the mobile support device when the latch base is secured to the mobile support device.

[0303] Clause 42. The traction system of clause 40 or 41, further comprising: a front catch and a rear catch, both secured to the plate portion of the latch base, the front catch being closer to the distal end of the mobile support device than the rear catch; and a lever having a front end and a rear end, the front end releasably latched to the front catch, the rear end releasably latched to the rear catch when the lever is pivoted about the front end of the latch.

[0304] To aid and illustrate the description of the various embodiments, various terms are defined herein. The following definitions apply to all the embodiments (including the claims) unless otherwise indicated. In addition, all references mentioned are incorporated herein in their entirety.

[0305] “a,”“an,”“the,”“at least one,” and“one or more” are used interchangeably to indicate that at least one of the items is present. A plurality of such items can be present unless the context explicitly dictates otherwise. All numerical values of parameters (e.g., of quantities or conditions) in this specification, unless otherwise indicated, are to be understood as being modified in all instances by the term“about” whether or not“about” is expressly recited in the numerical value. “About” indicates that the value in question can vary from the stated value by a minor amount. Minor variations can include variations that result from experimental error, measurement technique, variation in the manufacture and / or processing of the materials, and changes in experimental conditions. If the term“about” is not expressly recited in a numerical value, it is understood that the numerical value is not a precise value, but rather an approximation that is understood to be within the scope of the present disclosure. Furthermore, disclosure of a range of values includes disclosure of all values and sub-ranges within the range. All references are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0306] The terms“comprise(s),”“include(s),”“comprising,”“including,” and“have(s)” are inclusive and therefore specify the presence of stated features, steps, operations, elements, or components but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, elements, or components. The order of steps, processes, and operations can be altered when possible, and additional or alternative steps can be employed. The term“or” as used in this description means any one and all of the items that it connects. The term“any” is understood to include any possible combination of the items it modifies, including “any one” of the items. The term“any” is understood to include any possible combination of the referenced claims, including “any one” of the referenced claims.

[0307] For consistency and convenience, directional adjectives are used in the detailed description corresponding to the illustrated embodiments. One of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that terms such as "above," "below," "upward," "downward," "top," "bottom," and the like can be descriptive and used in relation to the drawings, and that the present application is not limited to the orientation of the components as depicted in the figures.

[0308] The term "longitudinal" refers to a direction extending along a length of a component. The terms "forward" or "front" are used to refer to the general direction from a rear portion toward a front portion of a component or system, and the terms "rearward" or "rear" are used to refer to the opposite direction, i.e., the direction from the front portion toward the rear portion. In some cases, a component can be identified with a longitudinal axis and forward and rearward longitudinal directions along that axis. The longitudinal direction or axis can also be referred to as an anterior-posterior direction or axis.

[0309] The term "lateral" refers to a direction extending along a width of a component. For example, the lateral direction of a shoe extends between the lateral side and the medial side of the shoe. The lateral direction or axis can also be referred to as a lateral direction or axis or a mediolateral direction or axis.

[0310] The term "vertical" refers to a direction generally perpendicular to the lateral and longitudinal directions. For example, in the case of a sole lying on the ground, the vertical direction can extend upward from the ground. It will be appreciated that each of these directional adjectives can be applied to individual components of the sole. The term "upward" refers to the vertical direction toward the top of a component. The term "downward" refers to the vertical direction opposite the upward direction, toward the bottom of the component.

[0311] The "medial side" of a component refers to the side or surface of the component that is oriented toward (or will be oriented toward) the interior of the component or assembly that includes the component. The "lateral side" or "exterior" of a component refers to the side or surface of the component that is away from (or will be away from) the interior of the component or assembly that includes the component. In some cases, other components can be located between the medial side of the component and the interior of the assembly. Similarly, other components can be located between the lateral side of the component and the space exterior to the assembly. Further, the term "medial" refers to a direction toward the interior of the component or assembly, and the term "lateral" refers to a direction toward the exterior of the component or assembly. Further, the term "proximal" refers to a direction closer to the body part on which the component or assembly is worn or to which the component is attached. Likewise, the term "distal" refers to the opposite location, further from the body part on which the component is worn or to which the component is attached. Thus, the terms "proximal" and "distal" can be understood to provide generally opposite terms to describe relative spatial locations.

[0312] While various embodiments have been described, this description is intended to be exemplary, rather than limiting, and many variations are possible without departing from the scope of the embodiments. Unless otherwise specifically limited, any feature of any embodiment can be used with any other feature or element of any other embodiment or in the place of any other feature or element. Accordingly, the embodiments are not to be restricted, except in light of the attached claims and their equivalents. Further, various modifications and changes can be made within the scope of the claims.

[0313] While various modes for implementing many aspects of the present teachings have been described in detail, those familiar with the art to which these teachings relate will recognize various alternative aspects for practicing the present teachings within the scope of the appended claims. It is intended that all matter contained in the above description or shown in the accompanying drawings shall be interpreted as illustrative and exemplary of a whole range of alternative embodiments, which will be recognized by those of ordinary skill as being implied by the contained matter, as being structurally and / or functionally equivalent, or otherwise becoming apparent, without being limited to only those expressly delineated and / or described.

Claims

1. A traction system for moving a support device, the traction system comprising: A base plate that can be connected to the far end of the mobile support device to extend below the bottom side of the mobile support device; A latch assembly comprising: A front latch and a rear latch, both of which can be secured to the top side of the movable support device, with the front latch positioned closer to the distal end of the movable support device than the rear latch. It has a front and a rear lever, the front of which can be releasably latched to a front latch, and the rear of which can be releasably latched to a rear latch when the lever pivots about the front of the latch; as well as The straps, which are fixed to the lever and the base plate, are taut when the base plate is connected to the far end of the movable support device and the lever is latched at the front and rear ends. The straps pull the base plate toward the far end and bottom of the movable support device.

2. The traction system according to claim 1, wherein, The strap extends through the lever between the front and rear ends.

3. The traction system according to any one of claims 1-2, further comprising: At least one bottom layer, which is fixed to the bottom side of the base plate and includes a ground-engaging traction surface; and The strap is fixed to the bottom side of the base plate between the base plate and the at least one bottom layer.

4. The traction system according to any one of claims 1-2, wherein, The base plate has a front wall and a toe. When the base plate is connected to a mobile support device, the front wall is located in front of the distal end of the mobile support device, and the toe extends rearward from the front wall above the top side of the mobile support device.

5. The traction system according to any one of claims 1-2, wherein the bottom wall of the base plate has sufficient flexibility to move from a relatively flat state to a relatively curved state when the strap is in a tensioned state, thereby conforming to the curvature of the bottom side of the movable support device.

6. The traction system according to any one of claims 1-2, wherein, The front latch defines a front recess facing the opening of the rear latch, and the rear latch defines a rear recess facing the opening of the front latch; and The front end of the lever includes a front lip edge that is captured in a front recess when the front end is latched to the front latch, and the rear end of the lever includes a rear lip edge that is captured in a rear recess when the rear end is latched to the rear latch.

7. The traction system according to any one of claims 1-2, wherein, The lever includes: The first latch body includes the front end of the lever; A second latch body, which is connected to the first latch body and includes the rear end of a lever; and A biasing member engages with a first latch body and a second latch body, and biases a front end away from a rear end, the front end being movable toward the rear end to release the lever from the rear latch under the action of a force opposite to the force of the biasing member.

8. The traction system according to claim 7, wherein, The first latch body includes a middle wall disposed behind the front end, the second latch body includes a protrusion disposed between the front end and the middle wall, and the biasing member is disposed between the rear end and the middle wall and forces the middle wall against the protrusion.

9. The traction system according to claim 8, wherein: The first latch body includes a sidewall; The second latch body includes a sidewall disposed adjacent to the sidewall of the first latch body; and The sidewall of one of the first latch body and the second latch body includes a flange, while the sidewall of the other of the first latch body and the second latch body includes a groove, and the flange is fitted into the groove.

10. The traction system according to any one of claims 1-2, wherein: The lever has opposing sidewalls, each having a hole disposed between the front end and the rear end; and The strap extends through the lever at the hole.

11. The traction system according to any one of claims 1-2, further comprising: An adjusting screw that extends longitudinally within the lever and engages with the strap; and The position of the adjusting screw is adjustable to adjust the tension in the strap when the lever latch is locked at the front and rear ends.

12. The traction system according to any one of claims 1-2, wherein: The latch assembly further includes a mounting plate that can be secured to the top side of the movable support device; and The front and rear latches are secured to the mounting plate.

13. The traction system according to claim 12, wherein, A portion of the mounting plate extends along the top side of the movable support device to the front of the front latch.

14. The traction system according to any one of claims 1-2, wherein: The latch assembly further includes a latch base that can be fixed to the top side of the movable support device; and The front and rear latches are fixed to the latch base.

15. The traction system according to claim 14, wherein, A portion of the latch base extends along the top side of the movable support device to the front of the front latch.

16. The traction system according to claim 14, wherein: The latch base includes a plate portion, an anchor portion, and a hinge portion that flexibly connects the plate portion and the anchor portion; The front and rear latches are fixed to the plate portion; When the latch base is fixed to the movable support device, the anchoring part is fixed relative to the top side of the movable support device, while the hinge part is not fixed to the top side of the movable support device.

17. The traction system according to claim 16, wherein: When the movable support device is in a relatively unloaded state, the hinge portion is at least partially spaced from the top side of the movable support device.

18. The traction system according to claim 16, wherein, When the movable support device is bent in a relatively unloaded state, the hinge portion contacts the top side of the movable support device.

19. The traction system according to claim 16, wherein, When the latch base is fixed to the movable support device, the hinge portion extends rearward from the plate portion above the top side of the movable support device, and the anchoring portion is located behind the hinge portion.

20. The traction system according to claim 16, further comprising: A compressible layer is fixed to the bottom side of the plate portion and disposed on the top side of the movable support when the latch base is fixed to the movable support.

21. The traction system according to claim 20, wherein, The compressible layer comprises a foam material.

22. The traction system according to claim 20, wherein, When the lever is latched, the compressible layer is not fixed to the top side of the movable support device, but is held against the top side of the movable support device by the tension in the straps.

23. The traction system according to claim 20, further comprising: A double-sided adhesive layer is disposed between the compressible layer and the top side of the movable support device, and also secures the latch base to the movable support device.

24. The traction system according to claim 16, wherein, The hinge portion is narrower and thinner than either or both of the plate portion and the anchor portion.

25. The traction system according to claim 16, wherein, The anchoring portion is shorter than the plate portion.

26. The traction system according to claim 16, wherein, The latch base includes at least one of carbon fiber composite material, glass fiber composite material, and carbon-glass fiber composite material.

27. The traction system according to claim 16, wherein, The latch base includes at least one layer of composite sheet at the hinge portion and more layers of composite sheet at the anchor portion and the plate portion.

28. The traction system according to claim 16, wherein, The hinge portion may include a single strap connecting the plate portion and the anchor portion, or may include two or more straps that are laterally spaced from each other and connecting the plate portion and the anchor portion.

29. The traction system according to claim 16, wherein, The anchoring portion includes a through hole and also includes: An adhesive, when the latch base is secured to the movable support, extends between the anchoring portion and the top side of the movable support, through a through-hole, and extends over at least a portion of the top surface of the anchoring portion.

30. The traction system according to claim 16, further comprising: An adhesive extends between the anchoring portion and the top side of the movable support when the latch base is secured to the movable support, and extends around the outer edge of the anchoring portion.

31. The traction system according to claim 16, further comprising: A cover fixed above the anchoring portion.

32. The traction system according to claim 16, wherein, The latch base has a through hole extending through the latch base, and further includes: An adhesive that passes through the through-hole and extends on at least a portion of the top surface of the latch base when the latch base is secured to the movable support device.

33. The traction system according to claim 32, wherein, At least some of the through holes are arranged in front of the front latch and / or at least some of the through holes are arranged behind the rear latch.

34. The traction system according to claim 16, further comprising: An adhesive that extends along the front edge of the latch base in front of the front latch and / or along the rear edge of the latch base behind the rear latch when the latch base is secured to the movable support device.

35. The traction system according to claim 16, wherein, The latch base includes a front section and a rear section, with the rear edge of the front section separated from the front edge of the rear section.

36. The traction system according to any one of claims 1-2, wherein, The latch assembly is a spring-loaded eccentric pull latch.

37. The traction system according to any one of claims 1-2, wherein, The lever includes a handle protruding at the rear end.

38. The traction system according to any one of claims 1-2, wherein, The base plate defines an integral side clamp that, when the base plate is attached to the litigation mobile support device, extends around the opposite side of the litigation mobile support device and extends above the top side of the mobile support device.

39. The traction system according to any one of claims 1-2, further comprising: A ring, which is fixed to the lever behind the front end, and The straps extend through the loop.

40. The traction system according to any one of claims 1-2, wherein, The mobile support device is either a prosthetic foot or a crutch.

41. A traction system for moving a support device, the traction system comprising: A latching assembly operable to latch a base plate to a distal end of a movable support device, the latching assembly comprising: A latching base that can be fixed to the top side of a movable support device; wherein the latching base includes a plate portion, an anchoring portion, a flexible connecting plate portion, and a hinge portion of the anchoring portion; and When the latch base is fixed to the movable support device, the anchoring part is fixed relative to the top side of the movable support device, and the hinge part is located above the top side of the movable support device and is not fixed to the top side of the movable support device. A front latch and a rear latch, both fixed to the plate portion of the latch base, with the front latch positioned closer to the distal end of the movable support device than the rear latch. It has a front and a rear lever, the front of which is releasably latched to a front latch, and the rear of which is releasably latched to a rear latch when the lever pivots about the front of the latch.

42. The traction system according to claim 41, further comprising: A compressible layer is disposed between the plate portion and the top side of the movable support when the latch base is fixed to the movable support device.

Images