Prosthetic sockets and prosthetic limbs

Abstract

Provided is a prosthesis socket comprising: an inner shell that is substantially bowl-shaped and that adaptively accommodates a prescribed amputation site; and an outer shell that has a shape which is independent from the inner shell and that extends so as to encompass a portion or the entirety of the inner shell from the edge of the bowl-shaped opening of the inner shell.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a prosthetic socket or prosthesis worn on the stump of the body.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, in manufacturing a prosthetic socket that fits onto the stump of a thigh or the like, in order to achieve both lightness and strength, fiber-reinforced resin (FRP: Fiber Reinforced Plastic) or the like in which a fiber material is compounded with resin to improve strength has been used.

[0003] This type of prosthetic socket has been manufactured by vacuum molding a single-plate material. Therefore, due to the requirements of its manufacturing method, this type of prosthetic socket has a structure with a substantially uniform cross-sectional thickness (hereinafter referred to as an offset structure). For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a prosthetic socket having a substantially uniform thickness using fiber-reinforced resin.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] By the way, in order to properly fit a prosthetic socket to the stump of the wearer, various shapes are imparted to the prosthetic socket. For example, when fitting the stump of the thigh to a prosthetic socket for a prosthetic leg, the prosthetic socket for the prosthetic leg may be imparted with a somewhat rounded shape that supports the body weight without damaging the stump.

[0006] However, if there are areas with a small radius of curvature, i.e., areas with a sharp radius, within the shape of a prosthetic socket with an offset structure, stress concentration may occur at those areas, potentially causing the prosthetic socket to break.

[0007] Furthermore, modifying the internal shape of a prosthetic socket with an offset structure in order to properly fit it to the stump could result in an unnatural appearance, as the external shape would also change as a result of the modification.

[0008] This invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned technical background, and its purpose is to provide a prosthetic socket or the like that achieves high fit to the stump and high strength. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] The technical challenges described above can be solved by prosthetic sockets, etc., having the following configuration.

[0010] In other words, the prosthetic socket according to the present invention comprises a substantially bowl-shaped inner shell that appropriately accommodates a predetermined stump, and an outer shell that extends from the bowl-shaped opening edge of the inner shell so as to encompass a part or all of the inner shell, and has a shape independent of the inner shell.

[0011] With this configuration, the inner shell appropriately accommodates the predetermined stump, thus achieving high fit to the stump within the inner shell. Furthermore, the double-layered structure formed by the inner and outer shells provides high strength for the entire prosthetic socket. In addition, since the outer shell extends from the opening edge of the inner shell, the strength of the opening edge, which is prone to stress, can be improved. In other words, high strength can be achieved as a prosthetic socket while maintaining high fit to the stump within the inner shell. Moreover, since the outer shell can be made into a shape independent of the inner shell, a natural appearance can be achieved.

[0012] The outer shell may have the external shape of the healthy portion corresponding to the stump, or a shape similar to the external shape.

[0013] This configuration makes it possible to create a prosthetic socket that has a natural appearance while achieving a high degree of fit to the stump.

[0014] The shape of the outer shell may be generated based on three-dimensional shape data obtained by scanning the healthy portion corresponding to the stump using a three-dimensional scanner.

[0015] With this configuration, the 3D shape can be quantitatively and accurately captured using a 3D scanner, making it possible to provide a prosthetic socket with a more natural appearance. The 3D shape data acquired as the shape of the outer shell may be used directly, or a shape edited using 3D CAD or similar software based on the 3D shape data may be used.

[0016] The shape of the outer shell may be generated based on three-dimensional shape data obtained by tracing data obtained by capturing an external photograph of a healthy portion corresponding to the stump.

[0017] With this configuration, the contour lines of the leg and other features are traced in the data obtained from capturing external photographs, making it possible to provide a prosthetic socket with a more natural appearance.

[0018] The shape of the outer shell and / or the inner shell may be automatically generated based on the physical information of the wearer of the prosthetic socket.

[0019] With this configuration, the appropriate shape of the outer and / or inner shell can be easily determined according to the body information.

[0020] The shape of the outer housing and / or the inner housing is obtained by inputting the body information of the wearer of the prosthetic socket into a learned model obtained by machine learning the relationship between the body information and the appropriate shape of the outer housing and / or the inner housing corresponding to the body information. The prosthetic socket according to claim 5.

[0021] According to such a configuration, by using machine learning technology, an appropriate shape of the outer housing and / or the inner housing can be easily determined.

[0022] It may further include a structural member interposed between the inner housing and the outer housing.

[0023] According to such a configuration, the strength of the prosthetic socket can be further improved by the structural member.

[0024] The structural member may have a lightweight structure.

[0025] According to such a configuration, since the structural member is lightweight, a more user-friendly prosthetic socket can be provided.

[0026] The lightweight structure may be a structure in which unit members are assembled through voids.

[0027] According to such a configuration, high strength can be achieved while suppressing the weight of the prosthetic socket by the voids.

[0028] The lightweight structure may be a structure in which unit members having a cross-sectional corrugated shape are assembled.

[0029] According to such a configuration, high strength can be achieved while suppressing the weight of the prosthetic socket.

[0030] The lightweight structure may be a structure in which element shapes forming a polygon in cross-section are regularly arranged.

[0031] The aforementioned lightweight structure may be a honeycomb structure.

[0032] This configuration allows for a lightweight, high-strength structure, enabling high strength while keeping the weight of the prosthetic socket down.

[0033] The aforementioned lightweight structure may be a structure in which element shapes are arranged regularly in three dimensions.

[0034] This configuration allows for high strength while keeping the weight of the prosthetic socket down.

[0035] The aforementioned lightweight structure may also be a gyroid structure.

[0036] This configuration allows for a lightweight, high-strength structure, enabling high strength while keeping the weight of the prosthetic socket down.

[0037] The aforementioned stump may be the stump of the thigh.

[0038] This configuration allows for high fit to the stump of the foot within the inner shell while achieving high strength as a prosthetic socket. Furthermore, since the outer shell can be made to have a shape independent of the inner shell, a natural appearance can be achieved.

[0039] The opening edge of the inner shell may be given a rounded shape that protrudes radially.

[0040] With this configuration, the ischium or other bones can be placed on the protruding portion of the opening edge of the double-layered prosthetic socket, thereby achieving stable support.

[0041] The R applied to the outer shell may be smaller than the R applied to the inner shell.

[0042] This configuration allows for the precise housing of a predetermined stump by the inner shell, while the naturally rounded outer shell provides a natural appearance, resulting in a prosthetic socket that meets both requirements.

[0043] A connecting structure for connecting the prosthetic socket to other prosthetic components using a metal member may be arranged between the bottom surface of the inner shell and the bottom surface of the outer shell.

[0044] This configuration allows for a compact design because the space created by the double-layer structure can be utilized to position the connecting structure. Furthermore, since the connecting structure for linking is generated using metal components during the 3D printing manufacturing process, the prosthetic socket can be easily connected to other prosthetic components.

[0045] The connecting structure may include bolt holes extending from the bottom surface of the inner shell to the bottom surface of the outer shell.

[0046] This configuration allows the prosthetic limb to be secured to other prosthetic components using bolts.

[0047] The connecting structure may include a space for a connecting device that houses the upper plate, which is part of a connecting device consisting of an upper plate, a lower plate, and a connector that connects the upper plate and the lower plate, and a hole that extends from the bottom surface of the connecting device space to the bottom surface of the outer shell through which the connector is inserted.

[0048] With this configuration, a stable connection can be achieved by sandwiching the portion between the inner and outer shells with the upper and lower plates. In addition, since a space for the connecting device is provided, replacement of the upper plate and other parts can be easily performed.

[0049] The connecting structure may include a recess for press-fitting a connector, formed by recessing the outer shell body to a depth between the bottom surface of the inner shell body and the bottom surface of the outer shell body.

[0050] With this configuration, the connector can be press-fitted into the recess after the prosthetic socket is manufactured, making it easy to replace the connector, etc.

[0051] The aforementioned prosthetic socket may be manufactured by additive manufacturing using a 3D printer.

[0052] This configuration allows for the inexpensive manufacture of prosthetic sockets. Furthermore, it enables the creation of complex shapes and structures.

[0053] The stump may be the stump of a foot, arm, or finger.

[0054] This configuration allows for high fit to the stump of the foot, arm, or finger within the inner shell while achieving high strength as a prosthetic socket. Furthermore, since the outer shell can be shaped independently of the inner shell, a natural appearance of the foot, arm, or finger can be achieved.

[0055] Furthermore, the present invention can also be conceived as a prosthetic limb. That is, the prosthetic limb according to the present invention comprises a substantially bowl-shaped inner shell that appropriately houses a predetermined stump, and an outer shell that extends from the bowl-shaped opening edge of the inner shell so as to encompass a part or all of the inner shell, and has a shape independent of the inner shell. [Effects of the Invention]

[0056] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a prosthetic socket or the like that can achieve high strength while also achieving high fit to the stump in the inner shell. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0057] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is an external perspective view of the prosthetic socket (first embodiment). [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of the prosthetic socket (second embodiment). [Figure 3] Figure 3 is an external perspective view of the prosthetic socket (third embodiment). [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a partial view of the six-view drawing showing the external appearance of the prosthetic socket (third embodiment). [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a vertical cross-sectional view of the prosthetic socket (third embodiment). [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a horizontal cross-sectional view of the prosthetic socket (third embodiment). [Figure 7] Figure 7 is an external perspective view of the prosthetic socket (fourth embodiment). [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a partial view of the six-view drawing showing the external appearance of the prosthetic socket (fourth embodiment). [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a vertical cross-sectional view of the prosthetic socket (fourth embodiment). [Figure 10] Figure 10 is an external perspective view of the prosthetic socket (fifth embodiment). [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a partial view of the six-view drawing showing the external appearance of the prosthetic socket (Fifth Embodiment). [Figure 12] Figure 12 is a vertical cross-sectional view of the prosthetic socket (fifth embodiment). [Figure 13] Figure 13 is an external perspective view of the prosthetic socket (sixth embodiment). [Figure 14] Figure 14 is a partial view of the six-view drawing showing the external appearance of the prosthetic socket (sixth embodiment). [Figure 15] Figure 15 is a vertical cross-sectional view of the prosthetic socket (sixth embodiment). [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0058] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached figures.

[0059] (1. First Embodiment) A first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figure 1. The prosthetic socket 500 according to this embodiment is a prosthetic leg socket applied to the stump of the thigh and is manufactured using resin by additive manufacturing with a 3D printer.

[0060] In this embodiment, the prosthetic limb socket 500 is exemplified as a prosthetic leg socket that forms part of a prosthetic leg, but the present invention is not limited to this configuration. Therefore, for example, the present invention may be applied to a socket applied to the lower leg, or to a socket applied to the stump of an arm or finger (prosthetic arm socket, prosthetic finger socket).

[0061] Figure 1 is an external perspective view of a prosthetic socket 500 according to the first embodiment. As is clear from the figure, the prosthetic socket 500 has a substantially bowl-shaped inner shell 550 having a stump storage space 501 at its center for housing a stump (not shown) of a body stump. The prosthetic socket 500 also has a substantially bowl-shaped outer shell 560 that extends from the upper edge 521 of the inner shell 550 to enclose the inner shell 550. In other words, the prosthetic socket 500 has a double structure in which the inner shell 550 and the outer shell 560 are integrally formed.

[0062] With this configuration, the inner shell 550 and the outer shell 560 form a double structure, thereby achieving high strength for the prosthetic socket 500 as a whole. Furthermore, since the outer shell 560 extends from the opening edge 521 of the inner shell 550, the strength of the opening edge 521, which is prone to load, can be improved.

[0063] The inner shell 550 has an inner circumferential surface and edge 521 that are suitable for fitting the stump appropriately. The edge 521 has a circumferentially wavy shape to fit the stump and also has a guide surface that guides the stump into the storage space 501. In addition, the edge 521 has a shape that protrudes slightly radially and is slightly thicker at the edge so that it can support the weight of the prosthesis wearer via the ischium, etc.

[0064] With this configuration, the inner shell 550 appropriately accommodates a predetermined end portion, thus achieving a high degree of conformity to the end portion within the inner shell 550.

[0065] The outer shell 560 has a shape independent of the inner shell 550. Specifically, the outer shell 560 has a more rounded (R) and smoother shape from the upper end to the lower end compared to the inner shell 550, that is, it has a shape similar to a healthy thigh.

[0066] In this case, the shape of the outer shell 560 may be the shape of the wearer's healthy foot or a similar shape. Furthermore, 3D CAD may be used to generate this shape. That is, the shape of the wearer's healthy foot may be read using a 3D scanner or the like, imported into 3D CAD on a predetermined information processing device to generate 3D data, and the shape of the outer shell 560 may be determined based on this 3D data. Alternatively, the shape of the outer shell 560 may be determined by importing a photograph of the healthy foot into 3D CAD and tracing the photograph.

[0067] Furthermore, the shape of the outer shell 560 may be automatically generated on a predetermined information processing device based on information about the wearer's body. Information about the body may include, for example, information about gender, height, weight, body fat percentage, muscle mass, and the shape of the stump, and the shape of the outer shell 560 may be automatically generated based on any one or a combination of these. Machine learning techniques may also be used in this process. For example, the shape of the stump may be input to a trained model that has learned the relationship between the shape of the stump and the shape of the outer shell 560, and the shape of the outer shell 560 or its underlying shape may be inferred and automatically generated.

[0068] With this configuration, the outer shell 560 has a shape independent of the inner shell 550, allowing for a natural appearance in the outer shell 560 while ensuring compatibility with the stump in the inner shell 550. Furthermore, modeling the shape based on the actual shape of the wearer's healthy foot allows for the creation of a prosthetic socket 500 with an even more natural appearance.

[0069] Similarly, the shape of the inner shell 550 may be automatically generated on a predetermined information processing device based on information about the wearer's body. In this case, machine learning technology may be used. For example, the shape of the stump may be input to a trained model that has learned the relationship between the stump shape and the shape of the inner shell 550, and the shape of the inner shell 550 or its underlying shape may be inferred and automatically generated. Furthermore, the shapes of both the inner shell 550 and the outer shell 560 may be automatically generated simultaneously based on body information, or the shapes of both the inner shell 550 and the outer shell 560 may be automatically generated using machine learning technology.

[0070] The space between the inner shell 550 and the outer shell 560 is filled with structural members (infill) (not shown), which are assembled from unit members that are simultaneously printed by a 3D printer and arranged regularly with voids between them.

[0071] This configuration further reinforces the double-layered structure, improving the strength of the prosthetic socket 500. In particular, the presence of a gap allows for high strength while keeping the weight of the prosthetic socket 500 down.

[0072] Between the roughly bowl-shaped bottom surface of the inner shell 550 and the roughly bowl-shaped bottom surface of the outer shell 560, a connecting structure is arranged for further connecting the prosthetic socket 500 to other prosthetic components, such as joint components.

[0073] More specifically, in the example shown in the figure, the connecting structure includes a roughly rectangular parallelepiped connector housing space 502 positioned in the section between the roughly bowl-shaped bottom surface of the inner shell 550 and the roughly bowl-shaped bottom surface of the outer shell 560, with an opening on the outer surface of the outer shell 560, and four connector insertion holes 507 extending from the bottom surface of the connector housing space 502 to the bottom surface of the outer shell 560.

[0074] In other words, in the example shown in the figure, a metal connecting device consisting of an upper plate, a lower plate, and four connectors connecting them can be applied to the connecting structure. Specifically, the upper plate is inserted into the connector housing space 502 through an opening on the side of the outer shell 560, and the lower plate is placed against the bottom surface of the outer shell 560. The four connectors are then passed through the connector insertion holes 507 to fix the upper and lower plates together, thereby sandwiching the section between the bottom surface of the inner shell 550 and the bottom surface of the outer shell 560. This ensures that the connecting device is stably fixed to the prosthetic socket 500.

[0075] This configuration allows for a compact design because the space created by the double-layer structure can be utilized to arrange the connecting structure. Furthermore, since the connecting structure for linking is generated using metal components during 3D printing, the prosthetic socket 500 can be easily connected to other prosthetic components after manufacturing. In addition, the connecting device housing space 502 makes it easy to replace the connecting device.

[0076] (2. Second Embodiment) A second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figure 2. The prosthetic socket 500' according to this embodiment is also a prosthetic leg socket applied to the stump of the thigh, similar to the embodiment described above, and is manufactured using resin by additive manufacturing with a 3D printer.

[0077] In the first embodiment, the space between the inner shell 550 and the outer shell 560 of the prosthetic socket 500 is filled with a structural member (infill) (not shown), which is an assembly of unit members regularly arranged with gaps between them. In this embodiment, an example of the structural member (infill) 570 will be described.

[0078] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of the prosthetic socket 500' according to this embodiment. The prosthetic socket 500' according to the second embodiment has substantially the same shape as the prosthetic socket 500 of the first embodiment, and is also manufactured using a 3D printer. Figure 2 also shows a horizontal cross-section of the area near the upper end of the prosthetic socket 500'.

[0079] As is clear from the figure, the inner shell 550' and the outer shell 560' are each formed in layers and consist of surfaces having substantially the same predetermined thickness, with a structural member 570' arranged between them, which is made up of a large number of unit members having a corrugated cross-section arranged regularly. Note that the thicknesses of the inner shell 550' and the outer shell 560' do not have to be the same or substantially the same, and they may have different thicknesses.

[0080] With this configuration, the presence of gaps between the wave-shaped elements helps to reduce the weight of the prosthetic socket. Furthermore, the placement of structural member 570' further reinforces the double structure, achieving high strength.

[0081] In this embodiment, a structural member 570' formed by assembling members having a corrugated cross-sectional shape was described as an example, but the shape of the structural member is not limited to this configuration. Therefore, various structures can be adopted to achieve both weight reduction and high strength. For example, a structure in which unit structures with polygonal cross-sectional shapes are arranged regularly (for example, a honeycomb structure in the case of a hexagon) or a structure in which unit structures are arranged regularly in three dimensions (for example, a gyroid structure) may be adopted. In addition, ribs or partitions may be provided to reinforce the space between the inner shell 550' and the outer shell 560'.

[0082] (3. Third Embodiment) A third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 3 to 6. The prosthetic leg socket 100 according to this embodiment is also a prosthetic leg socket applied to the stump of the thigh, similar to the embodiments described above, and is manufactured using resin by additive manufacturing with a 3D printer.

[0083] Figure 3 is an external perspective view of the prosthetic socket 100 according to this embodiment, and Figure 4 is a view of the prosthetic socket 100 according to this embodiment, excluding the front view from the six views showing the external appearance.

[0084] As is clear from the figure, the prosthetic socket 100 has a roughly bowl-shaped inner shell 150 with a stump storage space 101 at its center for housing a stump (not shown) of the stump of a body. The prosthetic socket 100 also has a roughly bowl-shaped outer shell 160 that extends from the upper edge 121 of the inner shell 150 to enclose the inner shell 150. In other words, the prosthetic socket 100 has a double structure in which the inner shell 150 and the outer shell 160 are integrally formed.

[0085] With this configuration, the inner shell 150 and the outer shell 160 form a double structure, thereby achieving high strength for the prosthetic socket 100 as a whole. Furthermore, since the outer shell 160 extends from the opening edge 121 of the inner shell 150, the strength of the opening edge 121, which is prone to load, can be improved.

[0086] The inner shell 150 has a shape suitable for fitting the stump appropriately on its inner circumferential surface and edge 121. The edge 121 has a circumferentially wavy shape to fit the stump and also has a guide surface to guide the stump into the storage space 101. Furthermore, the edge 121 has a shape that protrudes slightly radially and is slightly thicker at the edge so that it can support the weight of the prosthesis wearer via the ischium, etc.

[0087] With this configuration, the inner shell 150 appropriately accommodates a predetermined section, thus achieving a high degree of conformity to the section within the inner shell 150.

[0088] The outer shell 160 has a back 111, left side 112, front 113, and right side 114 corresponding to the front, back, left, and right sides of the wearer. In addition, a connector 109 is provided on the bottom surface 110 of the prosthetic socket 100.

[0089] The back surface 111 is constructed in a planar manner. Furthermore, the left side surface 112, through the front view 113, extends to the right side surface 114, which is constructed in a roughly circular cross-section. In other words, the prosthetic socket 100 is rounded and raised on its roughly front surface, while being planar on its back surface, thus having an appearance similar to that of a human thigh.

[0090] With this configuration, since the outer shell 160 has a shape independent of the inner shell 150, it is possible to achieve a natural appearance for the outer shell 160 while ensuring compatibility with the end portion of the inner shell 150.

[0091] Figures 5 and 6 are cross-sectional views of the prosthetic socket 100. Figure 5 is a longitudinal (vertical) cross-sectional view of the prosthetic socket 100. Figure 5(a) is the AA cross-sectional view shown in Figure 4, and Figure 5(b) is the BB cross-sectional view shown in Figure 4. Figure 6 is a transverse (horizontal) cross-sectional view of the prosthetic socket 100, observed from the bottom side after horizontally cutting near the center.

[0092] As is clear from the figure, the space between the inner shell 150 and the outer shell 160 is filled with structural members (infill) (not shown), which are assembled from unit members that are simultaneously printed by a 3D printer and arranged regularly with voids between them.

[0093] This configuration further reinforces the double-layered structure, improving the strength of the prosthetic socket 100. In particular, the presence of a gap allows for high strength while keeping the weight of the prosthetic socket 100 down.

[0094] Furthermore, a connecting structure is positioned between the roughly bowl-shaped bottom surface of the inner shell 150 and the roughly bowl-shaped bottom surface of the outer shell 160 for further connecting the prosthetic socket 100 to other prosthetic components, such as joint components.

[0095] More specifically, in the example shown in the figure, the connecting structure includes a roughly rectangular parallelepiped connector housing space 102 positioned in the section between the roughly bowl-shaped bottom surface of the inner shell 150 and the roughly bowl-shaped bottom surface of the outer shell 160, which is continuous from the lower end of the end section housing space 101, and four connector insertion holes 103 extending from the bottom surface of the connector housing space 102 to the bottom surface 110 of the outer shell 160.

[0096] In other words, in the example shown in the figure, a metal connecting device consisting of an upper plate 106, a lower plate 108, and four connecting members (nuts 105, bolts 107) connecting them can be applied to the connecting structure. Specifically, the upper plate 106 is inserted into the connecting member housing space 102 through the opening of the prosthetic socket 100, and the flat portion 108 of the base of the connecting member 109 is placed against the bottom surface of the outer shell 160. Then, the four bolts 107 are inserted through the four holes provided in the flat portion 108, the connecting member insertion holes 103, and the tips of the bolts 107 are fixed with nuts 105 to secure the upper plate 106 and the connecting member 109. As a result, the upper plate 106 and the connecting member 109 can sandwich the section between the bottom surface of the connecting member housing section 102 and the bottom surface of the outer shell 160, and the connecting device is stably fixed to the prosthetic socket 100.

[0097] This configuration allows for a compact design because the space created by the double-layered structure can be utilized to arrange the connecting structure. Furthermore, since the connecting structure for linking is generated using metal components during 3D printing, the prosthetic socket 100 can be easily connected to other prosthetic components after manufacturing. In addition, the connecting device housing space 102 makes it easy to replace the connecting device.

[0098] (4. Fourth Embodiment) A fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 7 to 9. The prosthetic leg socket 200 according to this embodiment is also a prosthetic leg socket applied to the stump of the thigh, similar to the embodiments described above, and is manufactured using resin by additive manufacturing with a 3D printer.

[0099] Figure 7 is an external perspective view of the prosthetic socket 200 according to this embodiment, and Figure 8 is a view of the prosthetic socket 200 according to this embodiment, excluding the front view from the six views showing its external appearance.

[0100] As is clear from the figure, the prosthetic socket 200 has a roughly bowl-shaped inner shell 250 with a stump storage space 201 at its center for housing a stump (not shown) of the body. The prosthetic socket 200 also has a roughly bowl-shaped outer shell 260 that extends from the upper edge 221 of the inner shell 250 to enclose the inner shell 250. In other words, the prosthetic socket 200 has a double structure in which the inner shell 250 and the outer shell 260 are integrally formed.

[0101] With this configuration, the inner shell 250 and the outer shell 260 form a double structure, thereby achieving high strength for the prosthetic socket 200 as a whole. Furthermore, since the outer shell 260 extends from the opening edge 221 of the inner shell 250, the strength of the opening edge 221, which is prone to load, can be improved.

[0102] The inner shell 250 has an inner circumferential surface and edge 221 that are suitable for fitting the stump appropriately. The edge 221 has a circumferentially wavy shape to fit the stump and also has a guide surface that guides the stump into the storage space 201. In addition, the edge 221 has a shape that protrudes slightly radially and is slightly thicker at the edge so that it can support the weight of the prosthesis wearer via the ischium, etc.

[0103] With this configuration, the inner shell 250 appropriately accommodates a predetermined section, thus achieving a high degree of conformity to the section within the inner shell 250.

[0104] The outer shell 260 has a back 211, left side 212, front 213, and right side 214 corresponding to the front, back, left, and right sides of the wearer. In addition, a connector 209 is provided on the bottom surface 210 of the prosthetic socket 200.

[0105] The back surface 211 is planar. Furthermore, the left side surface 212, through the front view 213, extends to the right side surface 214, which has a roughly circular cross-section. In other words, the prosthetic socket 200 is rounded and raised on its roughly front surface, while being planar on its back surface, thus having an appearance similar to that of a human thigh.

[0106] With this configuration, since the outer shell 260 has a shape independent of the inner shell 250, it is possible to achieve a natural appearance for the outer shell 260 while ensuring compatibility with the stump in the inner shell 250.

[0107] Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view of the prosthetic socket 200. Figure 9 is a longitudinal (vertical) cross-sectional view of the prosthetic socket 200. Figure 9(a) is the AA cross-sectional view shown in Figure 8, and Figure 9(b) is the BB cross-sectional view shown in Figure 8.

[0108] As is clear from the figure, the space between the inner shell 250 and the outer shell 260 is filled with structural members (infill) not shown, which are assembled from unit members that are simultaneously printed by a 3D printer and arranged regularly with voids between them.

[0109] This configuration further reinforces the double-layered structure, improving the strength of the prosthetic socket 200. In particular, the presence of a gap allows for high strength while keeping the weight of the prosthetic socket 200 down.

[0110] Furthermore, a connecting structure is positioned between the roughly bowl-shaped bottom surface of the inner shell 250 and the roughly bowl-shaped bottom surface of the outer shell 260 for further connecting the prosthetic socket 200 to other prosthetic components, such as joint components.

[0111] More specifically, in the example shown in the figure, the connecting structure includes bolt holes 203 arranged on all four sides of the bottom surface 210 of the outer shell 260.

[0112] In other words, in the example shown in the figure, the bolt connector 209 can be fixed to the prosthetic socket 200 by inserting the bolts 205 through the four holes drilled in the flat portion 206 provided at the base of the metal connector 209 and fixing them to the bolt holes 203.

[0113] This configuration allows for a compact design because the space created by the double-layer structure can be utilized to arrange the connecting structure. Furthermore, since the connecting structure for linking is generated using metal components during the 3D printing process, the prosthetic socket 200 can be easily connected to other prosthetic components after its manufacture.

[0114] (5. Fifth Embodiment) A fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 10 to 12. The prosthetic leg socket 300 according to this embodiment is also a prosthetic leg socket applied to the stump of the thigh, similar to the embodiments described above, and is manufactured using resin by additive manufacturing with a 3D printer.

[0115] Figure 10 is an external perspective view of the prosthetic socket 300 according to this embodiment, and Figure 11 is a view of the prosthetic socket 300 according to this embodiment, excluding the front view from the six views showing the external appearance.

[0116] As is clear from the figure, the prosthetic socket 300 has a roughly bowl-shaped inner shell 350 with a stump storage space 301 at its center for housing a stump (not shown) of the body. The prosthetic socket 300 also has a roughly bowl-shaped outer shell 360 that extends from the upper edge 321 of the inner shell 350 to enclose the inner shell 350. In other words, the prosthetic socket 300 has a double structure in which the inner shell 350 and the outer shell 360 are integrally formed.

[0117] With this configuration, the inner shell 350 and the outer shell 360 form a double structure, thereby achieving high strength for the prosthetic socket 300 as a whole. Furthermore, since the outer shell 360 extends from the opening edge 321 of the inner shell 350, the strength of the opening edge 321, which is prone to load, can be improved.

[0118] The inner shell 350 has a shape suitable for fitting the stump appropriately on its inner circumferential surface and edge 321. The edge 321 has a circumferentially wavy shape to fit the stump and also has a guide surface to guide the stump into the storage space 301. Furthermore, the edge 321 has a shape that protrudes slightly radially and is slightly thicker at the edge so that it can support the weight of the prosthesis wearer via the ischium, etc.

[0119] With this configuration, the inner shell 350 appropriately accommodates a predetermined section, thus achieving a high degree of conformity to the section within the inner shell 350.

[0120] The outer shell 360 has a back 311, left side 312, front 313, and right side 314 corresponding to the front, back, left, and right sides of the wearer. In addition, a connector 309 is provided on the bottom surface 310 of the prosthetic socket 300.

[0121] The back surface 311 is planar. Furthermore, the left side surface 312, through the front view 313, extends to the right side surface 314, which has a roughly circular cross-section. In other words, the prosthetic socket 300 is rounded and raised on its roughly front surface, while being planar on its back surface, thus having an appearance similar to that of a human thigh.

[0122] With this configuration, since the outer shell 360 has a shape independent of the inner shell 350, it is possible to achieve a natural appearance for the outer shell 360 while ensuring compatibility with the end portion in the inner shell 350.

[0123] Figure 12 is a cross-sectional view of the prosthetic socket 300. Figure 12 is a longitudinal (vertical) cross-sectional view of the prosthetic socket 300. Figure 12(a) is the AA cross-sectional view shown in Figure 11, and Figure 12(b) is the BB cross-sectional view shown in Figure 11.

[0124] As is clear from the figure, the space between the inner shell 350 and the outer shell 360 is filled with structural members (infill) (not shown), which are assembled from unit members that are simultaneously printed by a 3D printer and arranged regularly with voids between them.

[0125] This configuration further reinforces the double-layered structure, improving the strength of the prosthetic socket 300. In particular, the presence of a gap allows for high strength while keeping the weight of the prosthetic socket 300 down.

[0126] Furthermore, a connecting structure is provided between the roughly bowl-shaped bottom surface or the inner circumferential surface near the bottom surface of the inner shell 350 and the roughly bowl-shaped bottom surface of the outer shell 360 for further connecting the prosthetic socket 300 to other prosthetic components, such as joint components.

[0127] More specifically, in the example shown in the figure, the connecting structure has four through holes 303 extending from the bottom surface or the inner circumferential surface near the bottom surface of the inner shell 350 to the bottom surface 310 of the outer shell 360. A step is provided in the middle of each through hole 303, large enough to hold a nut.

[0128] In other words, in the example shown in the figure, the metal bolt 305 is inserted through the four holes and the through hole 303 in the flat portion 306 provided at the base of the metal connector 309, and the end of the bolt is secured with a nut 305, thereby fixing the connector 309 to the prosthetic socket 300.

[0129] This configuration allows for a compact design because the space created by the double-layer structure can be utilized to arrange the connecting structure. Furthermore, since the connecting structure for linking is generated using metal components during the 3D printing process, the prosthetic socket 300 can be easily connected to other prosthetic components after its manufacture.

[0130] (6. Sixth Embodiment) A sixth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 13 to 15. The prosthetic leg socket 400 according to this embodiment is also a prosthetic leg socket applied to the stump of the thigh, similar to the embodiments described above, and is manufactured using resin by additive manufacturing with a 3D printer.

[0131] Figure 13 is an external perspective view of the prosthetic socket 400 according to this embodiment, and Figure 14 is a view of the prosthetic socket 400 according to this embodiment, excluding the front view from the six views showing the external appearance.

[0132] As is clear from the figure, the prosthetic socket 400 has a roughly bowl-shaped inner shell 450 with a stump storage space 401 at its center for housing a stump (not shown) of the stump of a body. The prosthetic socket 400 also has a roughly bowl-shaped outer shell 460 that extends from the upper edge 421 of the inner shell 450 to enclose the inner shell 450. In other words, the prosthetic socket 400 has a double structure in which the inner shell 450 and the outer shell 460 are integrally formed.

[0133] With this configuration, a double structure is formed by the inner and outer shells, thereby achieving high strength for the prosthetic socket 400 as a whole. Furthermore, since the outer shell 460 extends from the opening edge 421 of the inner shell 450, the strength of the opening edge 321, which is prone to load, can be improved.

[0134] The inner shell 450 has a shape suitable for fitting the stump to its inner circumferential surface and edge 421. The edge 421 has a circumferentially wavy shape to fit the stump and also has a guide surface to guide the stump into the storage space 401. Furthermore, the edge 421 has a shape that protrudes slightly radially and is slightly thicker at the edge so that it can support the weight of the prosthesis wearer via the ischium, etc.

[0135] With this configuration, the inner shell appropriately accommodates the predetermined end portion, thus achieving a high degree of fit to the end portion within the inner shell.

[0136] The outer shell 460 has a back 411, left side 412, front 413, and right side 414 corresponding to the front, back, left, and right sides of the wearer. In addition, a connector 409 is provided on the bottom surface 410 of the prosthetic socket 400.

[0137] The back surface 411 is planar. Furthermore, the left side surface 412, through the front view 413, extends to the right side surface 414, which has a roughly circular cross-section. In other words, the prosthetic socket 400 is rounded and raised on its roughly front surface, while being planar on its back surface, thus having an appearance similar to that of a human thigh.

[0138] With this configuration, since the outer shell 460 has a shape independent of the inner shell 450, it is possible to achieve a natural appearance for the outer shell 460 while ensuring compatibility with the end portion in the inner shell 450.

[0139] Figure 15 is a cross-sectional view of the prosthetic socket 400. Figure 15 is a longitudinal (vertical) cross-sectional view of the prosthetic socket 400. Figure 15(a) is the AA cross-sectional view shown in Figure 14, and Figure 15(b) is the CC cross-sectional view shown in Figure 14.

[0140] As is clear from the figure, the space between the inner shell 450 and the outer shell 460 is filled with structural members (infill) (not shown), which are assembled from unit members that are simultaneously printed by a 3D printer and arranged regularly with voids between them.

[0141] This configuration further reinforces the double-layered structure, improving the strength of the prosthetic socket 400. In particular, the presence of a gap allows for high strength while keeping the weight of the prosthetic socket 400 down.

[0142] Furthermore, a connecting structure is positioned between the roughly bowl-shaped bottom surface of the inner shell 450 and the roughly bowl-shaped bottom surface of the outer shell 460 for further connecting the prosthetic socket 400 to other prosthetic components, such as joint components.

[0143] More specifically, in the example shown in the figure, the connecting structure has a connecting device housing space 403, which is a rectangular parallelepiped space with a longer side in the horizontal direction, between the bottom surface of the inner shell 450 and the bottom surface of the outer shell 460, and four through holes 404 extending from the connecting device housing space 403 to the bottom surface 410 of the outer shell 460. A cylindrical space 402 is provided in the connecting device housing space 403, extending from near the bottom surface of the inner shell 450, and is configured to allow access to the connecting device housing space 403 through the inner shell 450.

[0144] In other words, in the example shown in the figure, metal bolts 408 are inserted through four holes and a through hole 404 in the flat portion at the base of the metal connector 409. The ends of the inserted bolts 408 are fixed by nuts 405 through through holes in the upper plate 406 in the connector housing space 403. With this configuration, the connector 409 is fixed to the prosthetic socket 400.

[0145] This configuration allows for a compact design because the space created by the double-layer structure can be utilized to arrange the connecting structure. Furthermore, since the connecting structure for linking is generated using metal components during the 3D printing process, the prosthetic socket 400 can be easily connected to other prosthetic components after its manufacture.

[0146] (7. Variant) In the above-described embodiment, the space between the inner and outer shells was described as being filled with a structural member (infill) (not shown) which is an assembly of regularly arranged unit members with gaps in between. However, a structure in which the resin is completely filled is also possible.

[0147] In the embodiments described above, only the prosthetic socket was 3D printed; however, other parts of the prosthesis may also be 3D printed.

[0148] Although the above-described embodiment was explained as having a structure in which the inner shell is entirely enclosed by the outer shell, the present invention is not limited to such a configuration. Therefore, for example, the outer shell may enclose only a part of the inner shell, such as the vicinity of the edge where strength is to be improved, and only that part may have a double structure. In this case, for example, the other parts of the prosthetic socket may not have a double structure.

[0149] Although embodiments of the present invention have been described above, these embodiments represent only a part of the application examples of the present invention, and are not intended to limit the technical scope of the present invention to the specific configurations of the above embodiments. Furthermore, the above embodiments can be combined as appropriate, as long as no contradictions arise. [Industrial applicability]

[0150] This invention is applicable at least in the industry that manufactures prosthetic sockets or prosthetic limbs. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0151] 100 Prosthetic Socket (Third Embodiment) 150 Inner shell 160 Outer shell 170 Structural members 200 Prosthetic Socket (Fourth Embodiment) 250 Inner shell 260 Outer shell 270 Structural members 300 Prosthetic Socket (Fifth Embodiment) 350 Inner shell 360 Outer shell 370 Structural members 400 Prosthetic Socket (Sixth Embodiment) 450 Inner shell 460 Outer shell 470 Structural members 500 Prosthetic Socket (First Embodiment) 550 Inner shell 560 Outer shell 500' Prosthetic Socket (Second Embodiment) 550' Inner shell 560' Outer shell 570' structure

Claims

1. An inner shell with a roughly bowl shape that appropriately accommodates a predetermined cut end, An outer shell, which is connected to the inner shell at the opening edge of the inner shell and extends to encompass part or all of the inner shell, The system comprises an infill interposed between the inner shell and the outer shell, A prosthetic socket in which the inner shell, the outer shell, and the infill are integrally formed by additive manufacturing using a 3D printer, and the shape of the outer shell is formed independently of the shape of the inner shell due to the interposition of the infill.

2. The prosthetic socket according to claim 1, wherein the outer shell has the external shape of a healthy portion corresponding to the stump or a shape similar to the external shape.

3. The prosthetic socket according to claim 2, wherein the shape of the outer shell is generated based on three-dimensional shape data obtained by scanning a healthy portion corresponding to the stump using a three-dimensional scanner.

4. The prosthetic socket according to claim 2, wherein the shape of the outer shell is generated based on three-dimensional shape data obtained by tracing data obtained by capturing an external photograph of a healthy part corresponding to the stump.

5. The prosthetic socket according to claim 2, wherein the shape of the outer shell and / or the inner shell is automatically generated based on the physical information of the wearer of the prosthetic socket.

6. The shape of the outer shell and / or the inner shell is obtained by inputting the physical information of the wearer of the prosthetic socket into a trained model obtained by machine learning the relationship between physical information and an appropriate shape of the outer shell and / or the inner shell corresponding to said physical information, according to claim 5.

7. The infill comprises a lightweight structure, as described in claim 1.

8. The lightweight structure is a structure in which unit members are assembled with air gaps between them, as described in claim 7, for the prosthetic socket.

9. The lightweight structure is a structure formed by assembling unit members having a corrugated cross-sectional shape, as described in claim 8, for the prosthetic socket.

10. The lightweight structure is a structure in which polygonal element shapes are regularly arranged in cross-section, as described in claim 7, for the prosthetic socket.

11. The lightweight structure is a honeycomb structure, as described in claim 10.

12. The lightweight structure is a structure in which element shapes are arranged regularly in three dimensions, as described in claim 7, for the prosthetic socket.

13. The lightweight structure is a gyroid structure, as described in claim 12, for the prosthetic socket.

14. The prosthetic socket according to claim 1, wherein the stump is the stump of the thigh.

15. The prosthetic socket according to claim 14, wherein the opening edge of the inner shell is provided with a rounded shape that protrudes radially.

16. The prosthetic socket according to claim 1, wherein the curvature applied to the outer shell is smaller than the curvature applied to the inner shell.

17. The prosthetic socket according to claim 1, wherein a connecting structure for connecting the prosthetic socket to other prosthetic members using a metal member is disposed between the bottom surface of the inner shell and the bottom surface of the outer shell.

18. The prosthetic socket according to claim 17, wherein the connecting structure includes a bolt hole extending from the bottom surface of the inner shell to the bottom surface of the outer shell.

19. The prosthetic socket according to claim 17, wherein the connecting structure comprises a space for a connecting device that houses the upper plate of a connecting device consisting of an upper plate, a lower plate, and a connecting member that connects the upper plate and the lower plate, and a hole that extends from the bottom surface of the space for the connecting device to the bottom surface of the outer shell through which the connecting member is inserted.

20. The prosthetic socket according to claim 17, wherein the connecting structure includes a recess for press-fitting a connector, formed by recessing the outer shell body to a depth between the bottom surface of the inner shell body and the bottom surface of the outer shell body.

21. The prosthetic socket according to claim 1, wherein the stump is the stump of a foot, arm, or finger.

22. An inner shell with a roughly bowl shape that appropriately accommodates a predetermined cut end, An outer shell, which is connected to the inner shell at the opening edge of the inner shell and extends to encompass part or all of the inner shell, The system comprises an infill interposed between the inner shell and the outer shell, A prosthetic limb comprising a prosthetic socket, wherein the inner shell, the outer shell, and the infill are integrally formed by additive manufacturing using a 3D printer, and the shape of the outer shell is formed independently of the shape of the inner shell due to the interposition of the infill.

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