Prosthetic annular coupling socket adaptor with adjustable clamp

Abstract

A method for custom fitting prosthetic devices, comprising the steps of: (a) providing a unitary prosthetic coupling device adapted to couple a prosthetic pylon to a second prosthetic limb component, the coupling device having a cylindrical sheath extending from a cavity adapted to receive at least a portion of the second prosthetic limb component therein, the cylindrical sheath adapted to interface with a prosthetic pylon, the cylindrical sheath accommodating various depths of pylon insertion to provide height adjustability with the second prosthetic limb component, the coupling device further being designed for day-to-day use; and (b) mounting the second prosthetic limb component to the prosthetic coupling device and mounting the prosthetic pylon to an interior surface of the cylindrical sheath so as to provide a secure coupling between the prosthetic pylon and the second prosthetic limb component enabling day-to-day use.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION [0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. Nonprovisional patent application Ser. No. 10 / 377,289, entitled “PROSTHETIC ANNULAR COUPLING SOCKET ADAPTOR WITH ADJUSTABLE CLAMP,” filed on Feb. 28, 2003, now U.S. Pat. No. ______, which claimed the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60 / 361,427, entitled, “PROSTHETIC ANNULAR COUPLING SOCKET ADAPTOR WITH ADJUSTABLE CLAMP”, filed on Feb. 28, 2002, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference.BACKGROUND [0002] 1. Field of the Invention [0003] The present invention relates to prosthetic devices, and more particularly, to prosthetic couplings having annular coupling socket adapters (aka, “pyramid receivers”) with adjustable height tube clamps. [0004] 2. Description of the Related Art [0005] As shown in FIG. 1, an example of an above-knee (“AK”) prosthetic limb 2 for a patient may include a prosthetic limb socket 4 for receiving the wearer's residual limb, a knee...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

"The present invention provides an adjustable prosthetic coupling that allows for height adjustability between a coupling and a prosthetic pylon. This is achieved through a diametrically restrictable tube that can accommodate more than the minimum length of the pylon required for proper securing. The coupling has an inner ring for captively engaging the pylon and a prosthetic component interface end for engaging and securing a prosthetic component thereto. The coupling can be used with various prosthetic components and is designed for day-to-day use. The invention also provides a method for custom fitting prosthetic devices by mounting a second prosthetic limb component to the coupling and mounting the prosthetic pylon to the interior surface of the cylindrical sheath. The technical effects of the invention include improved adjustability, reduced material costs, and easier measurement and adjustment of the proper pylon depth."

Problems solved by technology

Problems sometimes arise when the pylon is ground down or cut, thereby shortening its length beyond that which is required.

Alternatively, if the original pylon is too short, the current state of the art provides no alternative for the prosthetist other than procuring another pylon having a greater length.

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