prosthetic foot insert

Abstract

The present invention relates to a prosthetic foot insert (10) having a proximal fixation device (20) for securing the proximal foot insert (10) to a proximal component (2), a retainer (30) disposed distally relative to and coupled to the fixation device (20), an elastic heel element (50), and a main spring (40) disposed on the retainer (30), the main spring extending into the forefoot region and coupled to the retainer (30), wherein the main spring (40) is supported on the heel element (50) between the proximal heel component (51) and the distal heel component (52).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a prosthetic foot insert having a proximal fixation device for securing the proximal foot insert to a proximal component, a retainer disposed distally relative to and coupled to the fixation device, an elastic heel element and a main spring, the heel element being disposed on the retainer, and the main spring extending into the forefoot region and coupled to the retainer. Background Technology

[0002] A prosthetic foot insert is a component of a prosthetic service device, for example, in the case of a lower leg amputee. The prosthetic foot insert may have a cover or prosthetic trim to achieve the most natural appearance possible and to provide additional functionality; the prosthetic trim may be made of plastic. The prosthetic foot insert may be fixed to an ankle hinge or hingeless to a lower leg tube or calf socket. The fixation device is typically constructed as a so-called pyramid adapter, through which multiple settings and orientations of the prosthetic foot insert relative to the proximal component, i.e., the lower leg tube, prosthetic socket, or ankle hinge, can be adjusted and fixed. The fixation device is fixed to a retainer, on which a spring extending in the forefoot direction, such as a forefoot spring or top spring, may be arranged. A resilient heel element is provided to dampen vibrations when the heel strikes the ground; this heel element is, if necessary, fixed to the retainer via an insert. Examples of prosthetic inserts are described in EP 2 420 212 A1, EP 1 976 463A1, US2005 / 0038525 A1 or EP2 688 522B1.

[0003] Problems with existing prosthetic foot inserts include the potential for structural space, unsatisfactory sinking, uneven rolling characteristics, and difficulty in compensating for unevenness. Furthermore, they require complex molding processes, which increase manufacturing costs and create difficulties in achieving optimal material utilization. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Therefore, the objective of this invention is to provide a pseudofoot insert that achieves optimal material utilization in a simple structure within a small structural space.

[0005] According to the invention, this task is solved by a pseudofoot insert having the features of the independent claim. Advantageous configurations and further embodiments of the invention are disclosed in the dependent claims, the description, and the drawings.

[0006] The prosthetic foot insert has a proximal fixation device for securing the prosthetic foot insert to a proximal component, a retainer disposed distally relative to and coupled to the fixation device, an elastic heel element, and a main spring. The heel element is disposed, particularly fixed to, the retainer. The main spring extends into the forefoot region and is coupled to the retainer. The prosthetic foot insert is arranged such that the main spring is supported on the heel element between the proximal and distal heel components. The retainer and fixation device can be integrally constructed together or fixed as separate components, for example, by screwing, bonding, locking, or welding to each other. The heel element is disposed or fixed to the retainer, particularly by screwing, bonding, inserting, locking, welding, or otherwise transmitting force and / or torque. The heel element is thus divided into two parts, wherein the distal heel component functions on the underside or distal end of the main spring, while the upper proximal heel component functions towards the retainer. This allows for the two heel components to be connected in series under heel load, thus enabling both components to function. This provides comfortable damping of impact loads when the heel strikes the ground. During walking or standing, the two heel components interact under the shared pressure load of the heel elements. Under forefoot load, the main spring works in conjunction with the distal heel component, thus achieving a dual function and improved material utilization. The prosthetic foot insert can serve as a foundation for other structures, such as mechatronic joints, ML adapters, adapters for adjusting heel height, hydraulic joint units, or similar applications.

[0007] In one variant of the invention, the distal heel component can be rigidly constructed, wherein the proximal heel component is fixed to the retainer and the main spring. The proximal heel component is fixed to the retainer and the main spring in a pressure-transmitting and tension-transmitting manner, for example, by fixed bonding, welding, injection molding, casting, additive manufacturing onto the retainer and the main spring, or by form-fitting coupling to the retainer and the main spring, for example, via bolts, pins, clips, bayonet joints, dovetail guides, angle rails, or other fixing elements, thereby enabling particularly reversible fixing to the retainer and the main spring and achieving replaceability. The distal heel component here functions not only under forefoot load but also under heel load.

[0008] Advantageously, the heel components are constructed identically, allowing them to be replaced. This makes it possible to achieve different spring characteristics under forefoot load using the same heel component by swapping the two components. The distal heel component can be constructed stiffer than the proximal heel component, allowing for different compression characteristics under forefoot and heel loads. Under heel load, the two heel components arranged in series function, while under forefoot load, the distal heel component functions only or primarily.

[0009] In one configuration of the invention, the main spring is embedded between the proximal heel component and the distal heel component, advantageously separating the proximal and distal heel components. The main spring is located between the two heel components and can be integrally constructed with or inseparably connected to both heel components. Similarly, in a further embodiment, this can be achieved by fixing or additively molding, integrally constructing on the main spring, or by achieving another permanent connection between the heel components and the main spring. If the heel components are coupled to each other only in the pressure direction, there is a possibility that only the distal heel component interacts with the main spring under forefoot load. If, for example, the two heel components are coupled to the main spring in a way that transmits both tension and pressure, such as by form-fit locking, adhesive bonding, or similar means, different matching of spring damping characteristics under forefoot load and under heel load can be achieved through different strain characteristics under tensile and compressive loads. The proximal heel component is preferably fixed immutably to the retainer, advantageously releasably fixed to the retainer, so as to be compatible with different users or different usage conditions. Similarly, the distal heel element is preferably alternatively arranged on the main spring or preloaded relative to the main spring, so that the distal heel element is always held on the underside surface of the main spring.

[0010] Preferably, the distal heel component is stiffer than the proximal heel component, thereby achieving a soft heel strike under heel load through a relatively stiff spring composed of the main spring and the distal heel component. This allows for high energy recycling of rolling motion and simultaneously high controllability during the end-stage standing phase. The main spring interacts with the distal heel component under forefoot load, while the two heel components of the elastic heel element primarily function under heel load, resulting in a soft heel during standing and heel strike. This enables rapid plantar flexion, particularly in the case of articulated prosthetic feet, thereby achieving improved knee stability after full foot contact.

[0011] In one configuration of the invention, the main spring is coupled to the proximal heel component without transmitting tension, so that the heel component only needs to be subjected to pressure. This increases the durability of the heel component, which can be constructed, in particular, as a foam element or made of an elastomer.

[0012] In one configuration of the invention, the main spring is constructed as a leaf spring, particularly a straight leaf spring, arranged between the two heel components, advantageously separating the two heel components from each other. An advantage of the straight leaf spring configuration is that its manufacture is very simple, especially when the main spring is made of fiber-reinforced plastic. The spring can be manufactured by embedding glass fiber, carbon fiber, aramid, Kevlar, Dyneema, or combinations thereof into a matrix. The main spring can be constructed relatively rigidly, thereby increasing durability, because the spring configuration, which compensates for the rigidity of the main spring under forefoot load by the distal heel component, also achieves sufficient flexibility under forefoot load.

[0013] In a further embodiment of the invention, the retainer has a protrusion extending from the fixing element toward the forefoot region, the protrusion being supported on the main spring. This support need not be directly on the main spring; an intermediate element, one or more hinges, one or more elastomeric elements, or similar components can be positioned between the retainer and the main spring. The protrusion allows for a change in the position of force transmission. During walking, rolling, or standing, when the force vector passes the fixing element before the vertical line, the force is transmitted from the retainer to the main spring. The main spring is also supported on the bottom in the forefoot region, thus allowing the flexural load of the main spring to be transferred to the intermediate foot region via force transmission through the protrusion.

[0014] In a further embodiment, the retainer is supported directly, or via an intermediate spring, intermediate plate, or clip, at two points spaced apart from each other along the longitudinal extension of the main spring, preferably at these two points. The support of the intermediate spring or intermediate plate on the main spring can be achieved, for example, through two adhesive points or similar points. If force transmission occurs through two points between the heel components and a front support point or front bearing point on the bottom, for example, through the displacement of the intermediate spring or intermediate plate at two points on the main spring, four-point flexing occurs when forefoot load is present, thereby substantially reducing the maximum flexural moment in the main spring. In one embodiment, the intermediate spring is constructed as a straight leaf spring supported on two support elements on the main spring, so that when force is transmitted through the retainer, for example, centrally to the intermediate spring, the force is transmitted to the main spring at two locations. Unlike the intermediate spring, the intermediate plate is constructed to be essentially inflexible or rigidly bent. When the intermediate spring is mentioned below, unless otherwise specified regarding elastic properties, it is also understood to be a rigid or substantially rigid plate.

[0015] A guide element can be fixed to the heel element, which is supported on the main spring. The guide element can be hingedly supported on the main spring, for example, in the front region of the main spring. Alternatively, the guide element can be constructed as a straight leaf spring, for example, made of a fiber composite material. A leaf spring-shaped guide element can be connected to the main spring, for example, on the sole side and in the toe region, and coupled to the heel element at the rear end. The distal heel component can be directly fixed to the guide element; alternatively, a receiving portion can be arranged on the guide element, through which the distal heel component is coupled to the guide element. In the configuration where the guide element is a leaf spring, the guide element should also exert little or no spring force. For this purpose, the guide element is constructed very thin, wherein, in the original assembled state, the spring force of the guide element exerts little or no compression on the heel element. The fixing and construction of the guide element prevents or restricts medial and lateral movement of the heel element during use of the prosthetic foot insert, thereby stabilizing the orientation and positioning of the heel element relative to the retainer and the main spring. Furthermore, the guide element ensures the orientation of the heel element relative to the main spring and the retaining element, which is also advantageous when using a foot cover. The guide element allows for compression and expansion of the heel element, with only a small or even no restoring force applied by the guide element in the proximal-distal direction.

[0016] In one configuration of the invention, the heel element is coupled to the retainer via at least one tensioning element. The tensioning element can be constructed to be both tensile and flexible, and can also be constructed as an elastic and flexible element, such as a belt or band, a flexible element, or an elastomer element. Particularly when the tensioning element is guided along the outer side of the heel component on both the inner and outer sides, the tensioning element on the heel side can stabilize the heel component and resist lateral displacement. Pre-compression of the heel component or a common heel element can be achieved by the tensioning element, thereby achieving the preload required to maintain balance in the anteroposterior direction. The tensioning element can be adjustablely, particularly shortenable or lengthenable, supported on or arranged on the retainer and heel component, or configured on a receiving part of the retainer and heel component. Alternatively, the preload can be varied by an internal component or spacer. The tensioning element can be constructed as a closed loop, bar, rope connector, strap connector, or buckle. Changes in preload can be achieved by replacing the ring, belt, rope, strip, or buckle, and by inserting additional tensioning elements with different circumferences, lengths, or tension capacities. A receiving portion or groove can be constructed on the retainer into which the tensioning element is inserted. To prevent unintentional separation of the tensioning element from the retainer, a mechanical stop can be arranged on the groove; this mechanical stop can be, for example, part of a fixing element. Changes in preload can also be achieved using pads or built-in elements arranged between the tensioning element and the heel element and / or retainer. Particularly in configurations where the tensioning element is a belt, reduced wear can be achieved through one or more built-in elements or spacers, as direct contact with the rigid retainer is avoided. The tensioning element holds the heel element in its unloaded initial position in a compressed state. If a high heel load is applied, the tensioning element can be secured to the retainer and / or heel element without tension. If a forefoot load is applied, the tensioning element constitutes a support for the main spring and the distal heel component. Under forefoot or toe load, the distal heel component is tensioned relative to the main spring and force is applied, thereby pressing the distal heel component against the spring. The tensile-rigid material is one that does not allow or only allows small elongation, i.e., a material with high elongation stiffness. The modulus of elasticity is greater than 5,000 Newtons per square millimeter. The tensioning element may also have a certain degree of elasticity and be constructed as a band or a differently shaped elastomeric element.

[0017] The preload of this or these tensioning elements is adjustable, particularly to clearly distinguish between walking with pulsating loads and standing with static loads. During walking, especially during heel strike and also during rolling motion, damping should be provided by corresponding displacement of the components relative to each other. When standing, the user should experience a sense of stability, achieved through preload on the retainer relative to the elastic elements or components. This preload is preferably between 5% and 60% of the user's body weight, and the preload force is particularly between 5% and 40% of the user's body weight, especially preferably between 10% and 25%. In the latter case, the preload force on the retainer through the spring action of this or these tensioning elements relative to the heel element or these heel components, and if necessary relative to the main spring or other elastic elements or components, is between 10 kg and 25 kg in the case of a user with a body weight of 100 kg, which corresponds to a force between approximately 98.1 N and 245.25 N.

[0018] In one configuration of the invention, the tensioning element is guided at the distal end of the distal heel component to allow the support to bend against compression via the main spring under forefoot load. The tensioning element may be fixed distally, for example, to a guide element or surround a guide element distally. In an open configuration of the tensioning element or in a configuration with two tensioning elements, i.e., one tensioning element extending to the heel component on the inner side and one on the outer side, these tensioning elements or this tensioning element may be individually fixed to the underside or distal end of the distal heel component.

[0019] A plantar element may be disposed on the distal heel component or on the guide element, the plantar element forming a heel profile. The plantar element constitutes the distal end of the heel element and may be disposed at the distal end of the guide element and on the guide element. The plantar element may receive the guide element, for example, in a slot or groove. The guide element may be fixed, for example, screwed in, injected, or bonded, or similarly, or simply inserted into the plantar element. The plantar element may have a distal profile that matches or can match the corresponding user. For patients with femoral artery amputations, a different profile may be required compared to patients with standard transtibial amputations. Tensioning elements may be injected into or integrated into the plantar element to reduce wear. The plantar element does not necessarily extend along the entire length of the prosthetic foot insert; advantageously, the plantar element is located only in the heel region so as not to impair other components, such as retainers, main springs, intermediate springs, or intermediate plates, and the mechanical action of the heel element. The plantar element may be bonded or provided with form-fitting elements and clamped to or otherwise secured to the guide element. Shape-fitting elements can be constructed on the sole element to receive and mechanically secure the distal heel component. Receiving or securing elements can be disposed distally on the sole element to accommodate contour elements, allowing the contour of the sole element to match different users. Protrusions or securing devices can be disposed on the outer side of the sole element, which engage with protrusions or concave shapes in the foot ornament.

[0020] In one configuration, the retainer is coupled to the main spring, intermediate spring, or intermediate plate via a hinge, which can be configured as a hinge or spring, such as a leaf spring. The hinge is advantageously located centrally, i.e., in the central region of the longitudinal extension of the main spring. The hinge or spring plate is fixed to the retainer, which is advantageously constructed with a stable shape. Advantageously, the hinge is torsionally fixed not only to the retainer but also to the intermediate spring, intermediate plate, or main spring. The fixing of the hinge to the retainer and the intermediate spring or intermediate plate prevents movement of the retainer relative to the main spring. Furthermore, small rotations or turns on the frontal plane, such as those occurring under forefoot load, are achieved via the spring plate or hinge. The hinge configuration as a spring plate distributes force transmission over a large support surface under forefoot load, thereby avoiding surface pressure. This protects the intermediate spring or main spring from high pressure loads, thus increasing the durability of the corresponding spring. Furthermore, the connection of the retainer via the spring plate or hinge ensures a permanent and displacement-free connection between the retainer and the main spring. The arrangement of the hinges or the force transmission through the spring plate in the middle foot area helps to optimally utilize the spring characteristics of the main spring and, if present, the intermediate spring.

[0021] Toe springs or toe elements can be arranged on the front end of the main spring, thereby easily accommodating different foot sizes by means of the toe springs or toe elements, particularly by screwing them onto the front end of the main spring. Furthermore, by variably fixing the toe springs or toe elements to the main spring, they can be matched with right or left prosthetic foot inserts. This increases the number of similar components that can be used for right or left side connections of prosthetic foot inserts. Thus, the same type of center leaf spring as the main spring and the corresponding heel element can be used not only for right prosthetic foot inserts but also for prosthetic foot inserts, allowing for matching with different foot sizes or right or left applications via toe elements or toe springs. Alternatively, a non-releasable connection can be achieved, for example, by adhesive bonding. Non-releasable means that the same components cannot be reconnected. Furthermore, it is possible to influence the contours of the foot side and regulate energy management after maximum forefoot load by using toe springs or toe elements. Further matching with the corresponding prosthetic foot user can be achieved through the characteristics of the toe springs or toe elements. The toe element can be configured to flip or swing relative to the main spring or be arranged on the prosthetic foot insert.

[0022] The heel component is advantageously constructed from at least one foam material, a hollow body, an elastomer element, a carbon element, an elastomer element serving as a cavity for a pump, and / or a helical spring element. At least one pump device or pump element may be arranged in the heel component or between relatively displaced components of the prosthetic foot insert, for example, to generate negative pressure in the proximal prosthetic component. The pump may be integrated into the heel component or arranged as a separate component or assembly between the retainer and the main spring, between the main spring and the guide element, and / or between the retainer and the guide element, and driven by corresponding relative displacement. A return spring may be arranged parallel to the pump, the return spring being designed to be stronger than the vacuum to be generated in order to achieve return to the initial state.

[0023] Springs, especially the main spring and intermediate springs, are advantageously constructed as straight leaf springs, which allows for cost-effective manufacturing and optimal utilization of material properties.

[0024] A further embodiment of the invention involves arranging a damper or actuator between the retainer and the main spring. The damper can additionally influence the relative movement of the retainer relative to the main spring and provides further possibilities for matching and adjusting to different walking conditions, walking speeds, application areas, and / or patient conditions. Instead of a damper configuration, particularly a hydraulic or pneumatic damper, an actuator can be arranged between the retainer and the main spring, by which the relative position of the retainer relative to the main spring can be adjusted. This allows, for example, matching to different heel heights for single or continuous adjustment during walking to different walking speeds, loads, or walking conditions. The actuator is particularly constructed as a motor and can also be used as a damper in generator operation. The damper can also be coupled to an adjustment device to adjust, for example, lock or open a valve within the damper to change the damping. The damping is preferably changed by a motor, for which the adjustment device is equipped with a motor that provides data during walking via a control unit and sensor assembly and is processed by a processor within the control unit. Then, based on the sensor data, the control device sends a control signal to the motor for corresponding adjustments. The control device may also have a corresponding data processing program, memory, and power supply device.

[0025] The damper can be constructed to lock, for example, to fix a previously found position after a load is applied or after a defined sinking or extending of the damper, until it should occupy a new position. This can be achieved by opening and closing the valve or by a mechanical locking device.

[0026] In a further embodiment of the invention, the damper is configured with a sequence valve, or the damper includes a sequence valve that opens only when a predetermined force or torque is exceeded, thereby actuating the damper. The triggering force or torque can be adjusted by a motor or manually via a control device. In addition to a data processing device, a data storage device, and, if necessary, an energy storage device, the control device also includes an actuator for adjusting the sequence valve. The triggering torque can be adjusted based on sensor data processed in the processor of the control device.

[0027] In a further embodiment of the invention, the retainer is configured to be adjustable to adjust the proximal-to-distal distance between the fixing device and the main spring. The retainer allows for variation of its adjustable proximal-to-distal distance, wherein the retainer is preferably constructed in multiple parts and has a locking device by which it can be secured in a corresponding position. The retainer may, for example, be constructed in two parts with arms that can swing relative to each other, wherein the fixing device is arranged or fixed on the upper, proximal arm. Adjustable displacement allows for matching to different heel heights or for altering the orientation of the fixing device and thus the proximal component to change the entire prosthesis structure.

[0028] In a further embodiment of the invention, the fixing device is movably, hingedly, or rotatably supported on the retainer. The movable, hinged, or rotatably supported fixing device in the retainer allows for matching with different heel heights or orientations. The fixing device is preferably secured in a corresponding position relative to the retainer, for example by clamping bolts, pins, teeth, or similar components. Attached Figure Description

[0029] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings:

[0030] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the prosthetic foot insert is shown;

[0031] Figure 2 The three loading phases of the prosthetic foot insert in the foot shell are shown;

[0032] Figure 3 A side view of the unloaded prosthetic foot insert is shown;

[0033] Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of the pseudofoot insert is shown;

[0034] Figure 5 Showing the prosthetic foot insert when the heel strikes the ground;

[0035] Figure 6 The prosthetic foot insert is shown in the middle standing phase;

[0036] Figure 7 The dummy foot insert is shown as it rolls over; and

[0037] Figure 8 The prosthetic foot insert is shown in the final standing stage;

[0038] Figure 9 Show Figure 4 A variant with a damper;

[0039] Figure 10 Show Figure 4 A variant with an adjustable retaining element;

[0040] Figure 11 A variant with a movable fixing device is shown;

[0041] Figure 12 A three-dimensional view of the pseudofoot insert is shown;

[0042] Figure 13 Showing according to Figure 12 Exploded view of the pseudofoot insert; and

[0043] Figure 14 Showing according to Figure 12A false foot insert with decorative elements. Detailed Implementation

[0044] Figure 1 A prosthetic foot insert 10 with a proximal fixation device 20 is illustrated schematically. The proximal fixation device 20 can be configured, for example, as a pyramid adapter. The proximal fixation device 20 can be integrally constructed with a retainer 30; alternatively, the fixation device 20 can be releasably fixed to the retainer 30. The retainer 30 is made of a shape-stable material, such as a light metal, a plastic, or a composite material with fibers embedded in the plastic, or of plastic or another material suitable for bearing and distributing forces and / or torques transmitted to the prosthetic foot insert 10 by a proximal component (not shown) through the proximal fixation device 20. The retainer 30 extends distally from the proximal fixation device 20, i.e., downwardly, and forwardly, i.e., in the walking direction. In the illustrated embodiment, a protrusion 34 is arranged or constructed on the front end of the retainer 30, the retainer having a section oriented distally forward, the protrusion projecting forward from the fixation device 20. Also in the illustrated embodiment, a carrier in the form of a leaf spring 111 is fixed to the retainer 30 by two bolts, the leaf spring protruding from the front end of the retainer 30. The leaf spring 111 is coupled to the intermediate spring 60 by additional bolts and forms a hinge 110 between the intermediate spring 60 and the retainer 30, thereby allowing the retainer 30 to roll or rotate on the leaf spring 111 and thus on the intermediate spring 60 with its rounded front end.

[0045] The intermediate spring 60 is supported on the main spring 40 in two spaced-apart regions 71, 72 along the longitudinal extension of the main spring 40, separated by two blocks or intermediate members. For example, when the intermediate spring 60 is arcuately constructed, it can also be directly supported on the main spring 40 in principle in two spaced-apart regions 71, 72. The retaining member 30 can also be hinged or pivotally connected to the intermediate spring 60 in other ways and methods.

[0046] In the illustrated embodiment, the intermediate spring 60, together with the intermediate member, is secured to the main spring 40 by straps or clips 61, 62. Instead of securing it by straps or clips 61, 62, which circumferentially surround the intermediate spring 60, the intermediate member, and the main spring 40, the intermediate spring 60 can be secured to the main spring by bolts or adhesive. Advantageously, the intermediate spring 60 can be reversibly secured to the main spring 40 by the intermediate member if necessary, so as to accommodate a particular patient or altered intended use.

[0047] The main spring 40 extends from the rear end of the retainer 30 into the forefoot region of the prosthetic foot insert 10 and may extend to the forefoot end. In the illustrated embodiment, a separate toe spring 120 with a curved profile is arranged on the forefoot end of the main spring 40, the toe spring being reversibly secured to the main spring 40 by screwing. The replaceable toe spring 120 allows for matching to different shoe or foot sizes and to the corresponding patient needs regarding rolling characteristics, particularly in the final standing phase. The rigid configuration of the toe spring 120 increases the effective foot length of the prosthetic foot insert 10, while a relatively soft toe spring 120 results in a shorter effective foot length. In addition to... Figure 1 In addition to the bolted connection shown, the toe spring 120 can be fixed to the main spring 40 by a plug-in connection, clamping connection, adhesive connection, or connection via an additional locking element. In principle, a rigid or substantially rigid toe element can be used instead of the toe spring 120 and fixed to the main spring 40. The toe element 120 can be arranged on the main spring 40 in a flip-up manner, for example, by means of a hinge.

[0048] A guide element 80 is fixed to the distal end of the main spring 40, at the front end of the main spring 40. This fixing can be reversibly performed, for example, in conjunction with the fixing of the toe spring 120. Alternatively, the guide element 80 can be reversibly or shape-fitted or material-fitted, for example, by adhesive or welding, directly fixed to the main spring 40. In another embodiment, the guide element 80 can be fixed to the main spring 40 via the toe spring 120. In another embodiment, the guide element 80 and the main spring 40 are rigidly connected to each other by bending, so that the guide element 80 can also function as a spring. The guide element 80 is substantially thinner than the main spring 40, for example, only half the thickness of the main spring 40 or less. Similarly, as the main spring 40 and the intermediate spring 60 are constructed as leaf springs, the guide element 80 can be constructed as a leaf spring. All three leaf springs shown in the illustrated embodiments are constructed as straight leaf springs, which is advantageous in terms of manufacture, assembly, support, and durability. In the illustrated embodiment, guide element 80 does not primarily serve to provide a springing effect; rather, guide element 80 is used to guide the heel element 50, which is arranged on the rear end of guide element 80, in a medial-lateral manner. Guide element 80 can lock displacement in the medial-lateral direction and is constructed flexibly or freely in the proximal-distal direction, i.e., allowing the rear end of guide element 80 to move without resistance or with only minimal resistance. A hinge can be constructed on guide element 80, for example in the region fixed to the front end of main spring 40. The hinge can be constructed as a membrane hinge or a hinge with a fixed hinge axis. Fixing of guide element 80 can also be performed, for example, in the middle or at any position. The primary function of the guide element is to ensure the positioning of heel element 50.

[0049] A foot element 100 is arranged on the rear end of the guide element 80. The foot element has a rounded shape facing downwards and allows the rear portion of the guide element 80 to touch the ground and roll. The foot element 100 is reversibly arranged on the guide element 80. For this purpose, form-fitting elements, such as protrusions, leaf spring lugs, bolts and threads, pins, bayonet connectors, or similar elements, are provided to secure the guide element 80 to the foot element 100. Alternatively or supplementarily, the guide element 80 and the foot element 100 may be coupled to each other in a material-fitting manner, for example, by adhesive bonding.

[0050] The distal heel component 52 is disposed in the gap between the main spring 40 and the guide element 80. The proximal heel component 51 is disposed between the main spring 40 and the retainer 30. The two heel components 51 and 52 are part of the heel element 50, which elastically supports the prosthetic foot insert 10 in the heel region. In the illustrated embodiment, the elastic heel element 50 is composed of two heel components 51 and 52, wherein the distal heel component 52 may be combined with the plantar element 100, or a single assembly may consist of the two components. The plantar element 100 may be part of the heel element 50 and has two protrusions facing proximally, which may also be configured as annular protrusions or frames, wherein the frames are configured to allow the distal heel component 52 to be placed within the frames or between the two protrusions. Thus, the distal heel component 52 is oriented toward the guide element 80 or the plantar element 100 and is prevented from moving in the forward direction, in the rearward direction, and, if necessary, in the medial-lateral direction. The distal heel component 52 is clamped under preload by a tensioning element 90 between the main spring 40 and the guide element 80. The tensioning element 90 extends medially and laterally to the proximal heel component 51, thereby preventing lateral displacement of the heel component 52 in the medial-lateral direction. In the illustrated embodiment, the tensioning element 90 is configured to pull rigidly, flexibly, in the form of a belt, such as a fabric band, arranged in a loop. The tensioning element 90 is arranged on the retainer 30, and in the illustrated embodiment, is guided in a groove at the proximal end of the retainer 30 and secured to the proximal end by a disc or fixing element above the tensioning element 90. Alternatively, the tensioning element 90 may be secured to the retainer 30 medially and laterally by bolts, pins, hooks, or similar fixing elements. Preferably, the tensioning element 90 is reversibly secured to the retainer 30.

[0051] The tensioning element 90 can be guided on both the inner and outer sides next to the main spring 40 and the guide element 80. Alternatively, a slot may be constructed in the main spring 40 through which the tensioning element 90 is guided toward the guide element 80. The tensioning element 90 can be guided below the guide element 80 through the foot element 100. Alternatively, the tensioning element 90 can be fixed to the guide element 80 or the foot element 100, such that one end of the tensioning element 90 is fixed to the retainer 30 and the other end is fixed to the guide element 80 or the foot element 100. Preferably, two tensioning elements 90 are arranged on the prosthetic foot insert 10, one on the inner side and the other on the outer side.

[0052] Tensioning element 90 according to Figure 1In the unloaded state shown, the heel element 50 is held in a compressed position, and preload can be adjusted by changing the length of the tensioning element 90. Furthermore, the tensioning element 90 defines the maximum distance between the guide element 80 or the plantar element 100 and the retainer 30. When tension is applied to the tensioning element 90, for example under forefoot load, the tensioning element 90 does not slacken or is substantially non-slackened. If the tensioning element 90 should be lengthened, it is not intended to be lengthened so much that compression of the distal heel component 52 between the main spring 40 and the guide element 80 is canceled. Instead of a loop configuration, the tensioning element 90 can also be constructed as a centrally located belt, a centrally located rope, or also as a flexible strip supported on or passing through the heel components 51, 52, thereby similarly providing a relative configuration of the components and preventing or reducing medial and / or lateral displacement.

[0053] The heel components 51 and 52 are made of elastic materials, especially elastic foam materials.

[0054] The working principle of the prosthetic foot insert is based on Figure 2 The load conditions shown are used to describe this. Figure 2 The image shows three load states of the prosthetic foot insert 10 in the foot shell 5. Figure 2 The upper right center view shows the prosthetic foot insert 10 in a no-load state, the lower right view shows the prosthetic foot insert 10 with heel strike, the so-called heel strike, and the upper left view shows the prosthetic foot insert 10 with forefoot load at the end of the standing phase. The foot shell 5 is correspondingly shown unchanged in the initial position in the center, and the prosthetic foot insert 10 in the initial position is also shown in the upper left and lower right views. Figure 2 The upper right middle view corresponds to the Figure 1 The view is provided, but it does not show the leaf spring 111 with hinge 110, metal strip, or similar element as a load-bearing component, nor does it show a detailed view of the intermediate spring 60 being fixed to the main spring 40. The intermediate spring 60 may be fixed at its rear and front ends, for example, by means of rolling elements or pad elements, or for example, fixedly bonded to the main spring 40. A pad element may be arranged on the underside of the main spring 40 to prevent the guide element 80 from directly abutting against the underside of the main spring 40, which would cause friction and wear to the leaf spring, which is typically made of fiber composite material.

[0055] exist Figure 2The lower right view shows the load situation during heel strike or heel strike, where the retainer 30 rotates in the forward direction around the support point on the intermediate spring 60. Not only the upper, proximal heel component 51 but also the lower, distal heel component 52 is compressed, the tensioning element 90 is unloaded, and the gap between the main spring 40 and the guide element 80 is reduced. The proximal end of the main spring 40 moves toward the plantar element 100 or toward the ground, and the rear end of the retainer 30 also moves toward the main spring 40, so that the retainer 30 is almost in contact with the main spring 40. The load during heel strike is mainly distributed in the rear portion through the heel element 50 and the plantar element 100, so the intermediate spring 60 is essentially unloaded, just like the main spring 40 and the guide element 80. The same applies to the toe spring 120, whose front end is inserted into a groove in the foot shell 5 and is form-fittedly held in the groove.

[0056] Rolling Or during standing, as for example in Figure 2 As shown in the upper right center view, the same vertical load is applied through the heel element 50 and retainer 30, through the intermediate spring 60, the intermediate or spacer element, the main spring 40, and the toe spring 120.

[0057] The load at the end of the standing phase is shown in the upper left view. The foot element 100 is lifted from the ground, and the maximum load is generated at the contact point of the toe spring 120 on the ground. The ground force is transmitted to the main spring 40, and the retainer 30 swings about the support portion on the intermediate spring 60. This is achieved by supporting the intermediate spring 60 at a distance from each other in the front and rear support regions 72, 71, on the main spring. Other forces transmitted to a single point on the main spring 40 via the front protrusion 34 are distributed through the supported retainer 30 to two points or regions spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal extension of the main spring 40, thereby achieving the same or uniform force transmission to the main spring 40 at both locations. The retainer 30 is coupled to the foot element 100 or the guide element 80 via the tensioning element 90. By rotating counterclockwise, the distal heel component 52 is compressed relative to the main spring 40 via the tensioning element 90 and the guide element 80. The proximal heel component, fixed to the retainer 30, is lifted from the main spring 40 and decompressed. This causes bending between the front support point of the main spring 40 and the point of action or area of ​​action of the distal heel component 52 on the main spring 40. Unlike heel strike, when the heel strikes, the main spring 40 does not bend, and the overall spring action and damping action are performed through the interaction of the heel element 50 with the two heel components 51, 52 and, if necessary, through the foot element 100 with the foot shell 5, the main spring 40 is engaged when the foot rolls and the forefoot is loaded. Once the force transmission vector shifts to the retainer 20, pressure is applied to the main spring 40 through the intermediate spring 60 via the front end of the retainer 30, which causes the tensioning element 90 to tension and not only the main spring 40 to bend, but also the guide element 80 to bend and the distal heel component 52 to be compressed.

[0058] Figure 3 Showing according to Figure 1 A variant of the false foot insert 10 of type 2. The basic structure of the retainer 30 remains the same, with its front end supported by a middle spring 60 via two intermediate members in regions 71 and 72, the middle spring being connected to a guide element 80 in its front region, the guide element guiding the heel element 50 in its rear region, the heel element being kept compressed by a tensioning element 90.

[0059] exist Figure 3 The figure shows a side view of the unloaded prosthetic foot insert 10, and also shows a proximal component 2 in the form of a calf tube, which can be reversibly secured to the fixation device 20 by a conventional pyramid adapter. According to... Figure 3In one embodiment, instead of plate 111 or leaf spring 111, a hinge 110 with a defined hinge axis is constructed as a load-bearing member hingedly supported on intermediate spring 60 at the front end of retainer 30. The hinge axis is fixed to intermediate spring 60 by a fixing element, such as a clamping adapter. This axis can be fixed or constructed on the front end of retainer 30, for example as a shaft end that is pivotally fixed to intermediate spring 60 in two recesses on the inner and outer sides of retainer 30.

[0060] The main spring 40 is convexly curved when viewed from below in its front region, allowing for easier rolling under forefoot load. The guide element 80 is connected to the guide element 80 via a connecting device 48, such as an adhesive connection or a form-fit connection. The guide element 80 has a wavy shape, which is convex in the forefoot region, concave in the midfoot region, and straight or similarly convex in the heel region when viewed from below. The guide element 80 tapers gradually in the midfoot region as it extends from front to back; however, it can also have the same material thickness, which is substantially less than that of the main spring 40.

[0061] The foot element 100 has a groove 109 for guiding the tensioning element 90. Correspondingly, a groove 39 is constructed in the heel portion retainer 35, in which the tensioning element 90 is guided so that it cannot move in the fore-and-aft direction in an unloaded state. The heel portion retainer 35 can be interchangeably arranged, for example, inserted into the retainer 30 and constructed to be locked by a form-fitting snap connection. It is also possible that the heel portion retainer 35 is permanently and irreversibly fixed, for example, by welding or bonding to the retainer 30. The heel portion retainer 35 is part of the retainer 30.

[0062] Figure 4 The cross-sectional view shows the results based on Figure 3 The pseudo-foot insert 10 shows the polygonal profile of the grooves 39 and 109 for receiving the strip-shaped, tensile, yet flexible tensioning element 90, and also shows the substantially straight configuration of the main spring 40 and the intermediate spring 60. The hinge 110 has a pin 112 at the front end of the retainer 30, which is oscillatingly received on a pin receiving portion 113. In the illustrated embodiment, the intermediate material for fixing the intermediate spring 60 to the main spring 40 at intervals is bonded to both the intermediate spring 60 and the main spring 40.

[0063] Figure 5 Showing according to Figure 3The prosthetic foot insert is used during heel strike or heel strike. The proximal heel component 51 is maximally compressed, and the heel portion retainer 35 compresses the rear portion of the heel component 51, particularly at the rear end of the retainer 30, as does the distal heel component 52. The retainer 30 swings clockwise about the pin 112, and the tensioning element 90 is sufficiently rigid in the illustrated embodiment to move outward from the groove 39. If the tensioning element 90 is fixed, for example screwed, clamped, or glued, in the area of ​​the groove 39, the tensioning element 90 moves outward both inward and outward due to compression during heel strike. Bending of the main spring 40 does not occur. Due to compression of the distal heel component 52, the guide element 80 approaches the underside of the main spring in the middle foot region.

[0064] Figure 6 Shown in accordance with Figure 5 Following heel strike, the foot continues to move, during which the forefoot region descends and the proximal component 2 of the prosthesis (not shown) swings counterclockwise forward in the walking direction. This increases the pressure on the front end of the retainer 30, thereby applying pressure centrally to the intermediate spring 60 via hinge 110. The intermediate spring then transmits the pressure longitudinally to the main spring 40 through two support assemblies at intervals. The main spring 40 thus bends between the front support point and the rear end and approaches the guide element 80 in the middle foot region. The tensioning element 90 moves towards the heel portion retainer 35 as the elastic heel element 50 increasingly releases pressure.

[0065] Figure 7 The prosthetic foot insert 10 is shown under increasing forefoot load, with the force transmission point continuing to move forward, and the two heel components 51, 52 are almost completely unloaded. The proximal heel component 51 rests with its upper side against the underside of the retainer 30 or the heel portion retainer 35, and tension is transmitted from the retainer 30 through the heel portion retainer 35 to the plantar element 100 and thus the guide element 80 via the tensioning element 90. The distal heel component 52 is thus compressed against the main spring 40, thereby providing a restoring force on the resilient distal heel component 52 by transmitting pressure at intervals to the two regions 71, 72, in addition to bending by the main spring 40. Besides the spring characteristics of the intermediate spring 60 and the main spring 40, an additional resilient component is provided on the distal heel component 52, by which the spring characteristics and rebound characteristics of the prosthetic foot insert 10 can be additionally adjusted.

[0066] As the prosthetic foot continues to roll, the forefoot load continues to increase, the guide element 80 continues to approach the underside of the main spring 40, and the distal heel component 52 continues to be compressed. In the illustrated embodiment, the proximal heel component 51 is fixed to the main spring 40, thereby separating the retainer 30 or, in the case of a heel portion retainer 35, the heel portion retainer 35 from the proximal heel component 51. Under forefoot load, when the force transmission vector from the proximal component 2 causes counterclockwise oscillation about the hinge 110, the proximal heel component 51 no longer has a spring function.

[0067] The spring characteristics of the prosthetic foot insert 10 can be individually adjusted by varying the load conditions of the corresponding heel components 51 and 52. Therefore, the distal heel component 52 can be constructed, for example, to be stiffer than the proximal heel component 51. A stiffer distal heel component 52 means providing greater resistance to deformation than the proximal heel component 51. This allows for a relatively soft heel strike initially for the patient via the proximal heel component 51. Furthermore, it is possible to determine the soft compression stroke by adjusting the dimensions of the proximal heel component 51. The determined compression and deformation of the proximal heel component 51 additionally act on the distal heel component 52. The greater spring stiffness of the distal heel component 52 results in rapid plantar flexion and a safe stance when the distal heel component is in action. Even though the distal heel component has a smaller circumference compared to the distal heel component 51, the distal heel component 52 continues to deform under additional heel load.

[0068] When the forefoot is under load, the force transmitted from the retainer 30 to the main spring 40 is transmitted in the same way through the supports at two spaced-apart locations or regions 71, 72, thus allowing the spring characteristics of the main spring 40, constructed as a leaf spring, to be optimally utilized. Consequently, the main spring 40 can be constructed relatively thinner and lighter than point-type force transmission, yet it can have higher durability in the same configuration. The intermediate spring 60 can be interchangeably constructed and matched to the corresponding patient or the applied load.

[0069] The proximal heel component 51 is secured to the retainer 30 or the main spring 40 on only one side without transmitting tension through the proximal heel component 51, which is for the durability of the proximal heel component 51, which is preferably made of foam material. The distal heel component 52 is preferably permanently positioned between the main spring 40 and the guide element 80 or the foot element 100 in a preloaded state.

[0070] Hinge 110 is preferably located in the middle foot region, particularly preferably in the middle of the main spring 40, so that when regions 71, 72 are evenly arranged relative to hinge 110 along the longitudinal extension of the pseudo-foot insert 10, force can be optimally distributed from the retainer 30 to the main spring 40. Different spring characteristics of the main spring 40 can be achieved by moving regions 71, 72 or by unevenly spacing them from hinge 110.

[0071] exist Figure 9 The middle shows Figure 4 In one variant, a damper 200 is arranged between the main spring 4 and the retainer 30. In the illustrated embodiment, the damper 200 is supported between the upper and lower arms of the retainer 30 at its proximal end, the lower arm being supported on the intermediate spring 60 on the main spring 40 and the proximal heel component 51. The distal arm is oscillatingly supported about the swing axis of the hinge 110, thereby enabling the fixing device 20 and the proximal component 2 to also swing relative to the main spring 40. The damper 200 can be configured as a pneumatic and / or hydraulic damper; alternatively, the damper 200 can be configured as an actuator capable of operating in a drive mode and / or a damping mode. In the actuator configuration, the distance between the two arms and thus the distance between the fixing device 20 and the main spring 40 can be actively changed. The actuator allows for motor-driven adjustment of the tilt angle based on the swing of the proximal arm and the fixing device 20 arranged on the proximal arm relative to the main spring 40, thereby enabling matching, for example, to different heel heights. In a configuration as a pure damper, a constant force or torque around hinge 110 can, for example, cause descent or forward tilting. Slow descent or tilting allows for precise adjustment of the desired heel height, for example, by closing a valve inside damper 200 when the desired position is reached. In a configuration as an actuator, the drive can also be stopped and locked when the desired orientation or desired spacing and / or angle of the anchor 20 relative to the main spring 40 or the ground is reached. It is also possible, in principle, that the damping is altered by a motor when an actuator or motor is provided for this purpose. The motor or drive can then be adjusted during walking via control devices and sensor assemblies to match different walking speeds, loads, or walking conditions. In a configuration where damper 200 is a hydraulic and / or pneumatic damper, the damper can be equipped with a sequence valve that releases movement only when a predetermined torque or force is exceeded, thereby acting as overload protection. Furthermore, the sequence valve can be used to adjust when the critical force is exceeded and to remain locked in the desired position after the corresponding high adjustment force is removed.

[0072] Figure 10 This illustrates another variant of the pseudofoot insert, whose structural configuration essentially corresponds to... Figure 9The structural configuration is as follows. The retainer 30 is also divided into two parts and has a proximal arm capable of displacement relative to the distal arm about hinge 110 and a swing axis. A locking device 210 is arranged in the rear region of the proximal arm, which can be adjusted and fixed in the corresponding position relative to the distal arm in discrete steps or steplessly. Adjustment of the two arms relative to each other can also be performed by a motor. The motor or drive unit can be activated and deactivated during walking via a control device or sensor assembly.

[0073] Figure 11 A further variation of the prosthetic foot insert is shown, featuring a fixing device 20 that is displaceably arranged on the retainer 30. The fixing device 20, for example, has a distal ball component 220 that fits into a corresponding groove within the retainer 30. Alternative support methods, such as universal joints or single-axis or multi-axis oscillation, are possible. The fixing device 20 is oscillated, rotated, or moved relative to the retainer 30 via the support device. If the target position of the fixing device 20 is reached, for example, within a frame that matches the heel height, the fixing device 20 is secured to the retainer 30, for example, by clamping elements, bolts, form-fitting elements, or by interrupting the drive of a self-locking mechanism, such as a pivot. According to... Figure 11 The movable fixing device 20 can also be set according to Figure 9 and 10 In the multi-piece configuration of the retainer 30, this is particularly true when heel height matching is achieved by changing the distance between the distal and proximal ends of the retaining device 20 relative to the main spring 40. Besides... Figure 10 In addition to the locking device 210 shown, other locking devices or fixing elements may be provided to fix the position of the retainer 30 and the position of the fixing device 20 relative to the retainer 30, for example by spacer elements, stops, adjusting bolts, clamping bolts or the like.

[0074] exist Figure 12The following is a three-dimensional overall view of the prosthetic foot insert 10, a further variant of the invention. A fixing device 20 is constructed as a pyramid adapter on the retainer 30 and is used for attachment to a proximal prosthetic component (not shown), such as a calf tube or calf socket. The retainer 30 is made of a shape-stable material and has a hole at its front end through which a pivot pin 112 is guided to construct a hinge 110 between the retainer 30 and the carrier 600. The carrier 600 corresponds to the intermediate spring or intermediate element of the aforementioned embodiments, but does not have significant spring characteristics. Lateral protrusions are arranged at the front and rear ends of the carrier 600, which are substantially spaced apart from each other across the width of the main spring 40, so that the main spring 40 can be received between the protrusions. The carrier 600 is supported on the main spring 40 by an intermediate member, only the front intermediate member is seen in this view. The main spring 40 can be connected to the carrier 600 by adhesive connection, clamping connection, and / or form-fit connection. Similarly, the carrier may have a lateral protrusion at the lower end of the protrusion, thereby forming a C-shaped or slot-shaped receiving portion for the main spring 40. The main spring 40 can then be pushed into the receiving portion. The main spring 40 can also be secured to the carrier 600 by an intermediate member, a form-fitting element, a clamping connection, and / or an adhesive connection.

[0075] The front end of the main spring 40 is form-fittedly supported on the guide element 80 or the base spring. For this purpose, a front receiving portion 84 or pocket is constructed on the front end of the guide element 80, into which the main spring 40 is inserted. Additional fixation can be achieved by nails, pins, hooks, bolts, clips, Velcro, other form-fit connections and / or clamping connections and / or material-fit connections. Preferably, the main spring 40 is releasably and replaceably supported on the front end of the guide element 80, thereby allowing for non-damaging removal of the main spring 40 or replacement of the guide element 80 for repair, matching, or adjustment purposes. The front receiving portion 84 can be constructed as an integrated component of the guide element 80. Alternatively, the front receiving portion 84 can be manufactured as a separate element and permanently fixed, for example, by welding, bonding, or by fastening elements to the guide element 80.

[0076] A rear receiving portion 85 for the heel component 50 is arranged or constructed on the rear end of the guide element 80. Corresponding to the front receiving portion 84, the rear receiving portion 85 may also be integrally constructed as a component of the guide element 80 or manufactured separately and fixed to the guide element 80. The rear receiving portion 85 has protruding regions on all sides, which are oriented in the proximal direction so that the distal heel component 52 can be inserted into these regions. The rear receiving portion 85 ensures that the distal heel component 52 cannot perform lateral or directional movements along or opposite to the walking direction. It also prevents the distal heel component 52 from rotating. The distal heel component 52 is mounted on the guide element 80.

[0077] The main spring 40 is located above the distal heel component 52, and a cover 45 is pushed onto or placed on the rear end of the main spring, the cover forming a lateral and rearward frame-shaped protrusion. This prevents the upper end of the distal heel component 52 from moving laterally or rearward. The lateral and rearward protrusions of the cover 45 also extend proximally away from the upper side of the main spring 40 and thus serve as a receiving and guiding device for the proximal heel component 51. The proximal heel component 51 rests against the underside of the retainer 30 directly or via an intermediate member or other retainer with its proximal upper side.

[0078] The belt, serving as the tensioning element 90, passes over the upper side of the retainer 30 and is guided inside and outside the two heel parts 51, 52 of the main spring 40. The belt 90 is guided below the rear receiving portion 85 below the guide element 80 on the lower side, so that the main spring 40 is supported between the two heel parts 51, 52 and clamped between the retainer 30 and the guide element 80.

[0079] In the unloaded state of the illustrated prosthetic foot insert 10, the tensioning element 90 is slightly preloaded, thereby holding the two heel components 51, 52 clamped between the retainer 30, the main spring 40, and the guide element 80. Upon heel strike, at least one of the heel components 51, 52 is compressed, and the strap 90 is unloaded. To prevent the strap 90 from detaching from the retainer 30 and / or the guide element 80, the strap 90 may be secured there. Grooves or slots are machined in the retainer 30 and the rear receiver 85 for better guidance and protection from external influences, and the strap 90 is guided within these grooves or slots.

[0080] exist Figure 13The exploded view shows the various components of the prosthetic foot insert 10. The fixing device 20 is constructed as a screw-in pyramid adapter that can be screwed into the threads inside the retainer 30. A groove-shaped recess 39 is machined in the retainer 30 after the fixing device 20 in the traveling direction, in which the belt 90 is guided. An eccentric wheel 300 is supported in the retainer 30 to change the belt tension. The eccentric wheel 300 is accessible from the back of the retainer 30 and changes the belt tension by rotating from its initial position.

[0081] The cover 45 is constructed as a frame that projects from the proximal and distal ends of the support on the inner and outer sides and on the dorsal side to provide guidance for the heel components 51, 52. Inside the frame, a plate serving as a support, an inwardly projecting frame, multiple decorative elements, or slots can be constructed. Thus, it is possible for the cover 45 to be mounted on the main spring 40, or for the rear end of the main spring 40 to be inserted into a slot in the cover 45. The fixation of the cover 45 to the rear end of the main spring 40 can be achieved through force fit, form fit, and / or material fit.

[0082] A hole for receiving the shaft pin 112 is visible at the front end of the support member 600, the shaft pin being supported within the hole in the support member 600 in the sleeve 114. The support member 600 is bridge-shaped and has two support areas, thereby achieving contact between the support member 600 and the main spring 40 through two intermediate members spaced apart from each other. Under pressure load, the force transmission to the main spring 40 thus occurs spaced apart along the longitudinal extension of the main spring 40, thereby supporting the retainer 30 on the main spring 40 through the support member 600 and the intermediate members via two-point support.

[0083] The support points of the main spring 40, spaced apart relative to the intermediate member in the longitudinal extension, are located on the front and rear ends of the main spring, on the guide element 80 and the distal heel member 52, thus generally forming a four-point support for the main spring 40.

[0084] The two heel components 51, 52 are preferably constructed as foam elements or foam assemblies and may have different elastic and damping characteristics. The heel components 51, 52 can be replaced, and in particular, replaced without damage, within the prosthetic foot insert 10. After the tensioning element 90 is removed, the retainer 30 can be flipped upwards, for example, around the hinge 110, and the proximal heel component 51 can be removed. This is done correspondingly for the distal heel component 52.

[0085] exist Figure 14 In China, according to Figure 12The assembled prosthetic foot insert 10 is provided with a foot shell 5, which mimics the shape of a natural foot. The foot shell 5 is specifically used to protect the mechanical components of the prosthetic foot insert 10 from external influences, and to protect the shoe supporting the prosthetic foot insert 10 and its surroundings. Thus, damage or injury does not occur due to sharp or hard parts of the prosthetic foot insert 10. The prosthetic insert is advantageously constructed of soft, flexible materials, such as polyurethane, polyethylene, or silicone, or a combination of these materials.

Claims

1. A prosthetic foot insert (10) comprising a proximal fixation device (20) for securing the proximal foot insert (10) to a proximal component (2), a retainer (30) disposed distally relative to and coupled to the proximal fixation device (20), an elastic heel element (50), and a main spring (40), the heel element being disposed on the retainer (30), the main spring extending into and coupled to the retainer (30) in the forefoot region, wherein, The main spring (40) is supported on the heel element (50) between the proximal heel component (51) and the distal heel component (52), characterized in that the retainer (30) has a protrusion (34) protruding from the proximal fixation device (20) in the direction toward the forefoot region, the protrusion being supported on the main spring (40), the retainer (30) being supported on the main spring (40) by an intermediate element, the retainer (30) and the intermediate element being supported on the main spring (40) in two regions (71, 72) spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal extension of the main spring (40), and the intermediate element being fixed to the main spring by fasteners such that the intermediate element remains stationary relative to the main spring, wherein the heel element (50) is coupled to the retainer (30) by at least one tensioning element (90).

2. The prosthetic foot insert according to claim 1, characterized in that, The distal heel component (52) is rigidly constructed, and the proximal heel component (51) is fixed to the retainer (30) and the main spring (40).

3. The prosthetic foot insert according to claim 1, characterized in that, The main spring (40) is coupled to the proximal heel component (51) without transmitting tension.

4. The prosthetic foot insert according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The distal heel component (52) is harder than the proximal heel component (51).

5. The prosthetic foot insert according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The main spring (40) is embedded between the proximal heel component (51) and the distal heel component (52).

6. The prosthetic foot insert according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The main spring (40) is constructed as a leaf spring.

7. The prosthetic foot insert according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The retainer (30) is supported on the main spring (40) by an intermediate spring (60) or an intermediate plate.

8. The prosthetic foot insert according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, A guide element (80) is fixed on the heel element (50), and the guide element is supported on the main spring (40).

9. The prosthetic foot insert according to claim 8, characterized in that, The guide element (80) is fixed to the front end of the main spring (40).

10. The prosthetic foot insert according to claim 8, characterized in that, The guide element (80) reduces or prevents the heel element (50) from shifting in the medial-lateral direction and allows the heel element (50) to compress or expand.

11. The prosthetic foot insert according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The tensioning element holds the heel element (50) in an unloaded initial position in a compressed state.

12. The prosthetic foot insert according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The tensioning element (90) is guided at the distal end of the distal heel component (52).

13. The prosthetic foot insert according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The tensioning element (90) tensions the distal heel component (52) relative to the main spring (40) when the forefoot is under load.

14. The prosthetic foot insert according to claim 10, characterized in that, A foot element (100) is arranged on the distal heel component (52) or on the guide element (80).

15. The prosthetic foot insert according to claim 9, characterized in that, The retainer (30) is coupled to the main spring (40), intermediate spring (60) or intermediate plate via a hinge (110).

16. The prosthetic foot insert according to claim 15, characterized in that, The hinge (110) is arranged in the middle foot region.

17. The prosthetic foot insert according to claim 7, characterized in that, A toe element is fixed to the front end of the main spring (40).

18. The prosthetic foot insert according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The heel components (51, 52) are composed of foam material, hollow body, carbon element and / or coil spring element.

19. The prosthetic foot insert according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The heel components (51, 52) are composed of elastomeric elements.

20. The prosthetic foot insert according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The heel components (51, 52) are composed of an elastomeric element having a cavity that serves as a pump chamber.

21. The prosthetic foot insert according to claim 17, characterized in that, The main spring (40), the intermediate spring (60), and the toe element are constructed as straight leaf springs.

22. The prosthetic foot insert according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, A damper (200) or actuator is arranged between the retainer (30) and the main spring (40).

23. The prosthetic foot insert according to claim 22, characterized in that, The damper (200) is lockable.

24. The prosthetic foot insert according to claim 22, characterized in that, The damper (200) includes a sequence valve.

25. The prosthetic foot insert according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The retainer (30) is configured to be adjustable so as to adjust the proximal-to-distal distance between the fixing device (20) and the main spring (40).

26. The prosthetic foot insert according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The fixing device (20) is movably supported on the retainer (30).

27. The prosthetic foot insert according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The fixing device (20) can be hinged or rotatably supported on the retainer (30).

Images