Adjustable Residual Limb Support for Amputation Healing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Post-operative residual limb supports for above-the-elbow and below-the-elbow amputations often lack a universal fit, comfort, and adequate protection, which are crucial for proper healing and preparation for a permanent prosthesis.
Innovation Solution
A modular support assembly comprising adjustable frames, liners, and straps that conform to the residual limb, allowing for customizable fit and protection, with features like slits for easy insertion and adjustable components for accommodating different limb lengths and amputation types.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed-size residual limb support is used, then the device structure is simple, but it cannot accommodate different limb lengths and amputation types
Solution Approach 1:
The support device incorporates adjustable components including an adjustable upper frame with movable segments connected by fasteners, an adjustable lower frame with telescoping sides, and multiple fastening positions throughout the structure. These dynamic elements allow the device to be customized for different residual limb lengths and amputation types (above-elbow or below-elbow), transforming a static structure into an adaptable system that maintains universal applicability without requiring multiple specialized devices.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a universal fit support is designed for different amputation types, then adaptability improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The support device is divided into distinct modular segments: an upper frame with adjustable segments for above-elbow support, a lower frame with telescoping sides for below-elbow support, and a two-part liner system with a first liner portion and second liner portion. Each segment can be independently adjusted or configured based on the specific amputation type, allowing the device to accommodate both above-elbow and below-elbow amputations through modular assembly rather than requiring a completely different device for each type.
3Adaptability or versatility
If adjustable components are added to accommodate different limb lengths, then versatility improves, but ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates pre-configured adjustment mechanisms including pre-positioned fasteners along the upper and lower frames, pre-designed telescoping sides with alignment features, and pre-attached liner portions with integrated fastening systems. These preliminary design elements guide the user through the adjustment process, reducing the complexity of customization by providing clear adjustment paths and pre-established connection points, thereby maintaining ease of operation despite the enhanced versatility.
Data Source
AI summary
An upper extremity post-operative residual limb support assembly includes an upper frame; a lower frame adjustably coupled to the upper frame; a liner coupled to the upper frame and the lower frame, the liner including: a first liner portion configured to be positioned adjacent the upper frame and extend at least partially about an arm of a user; and a second liner portion configured to be positioned adjacent the lower frame, the second liner portion including a closed end configured to receive a distal end of a residual portion of the arm.