Adjustable Prosthetic Socket With Dial Tensioner
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional prosthetic sockets are static and do not accommodate shape and volume fluctuations of residual limbs, leading to discomfort, pain, and soft tissue breakdown, and are often bulky and cumbersome.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable socket system with interconnected vertebrae elements and flexible straps that allow for pivotable and lockable adjustments, providing a dynamic fit to accommodate varying limb sizes and shapes, and can be secured to both anterior and posterior aspects of the residual limb.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional static sockets are used, then manufacturing precision can be achieved, but adaptability deteriorates because they cannot accommodate shape and volume fluctuations of residual limbs
Solution Approach 1:
The socket is divided into multiple rigid components connected by flexible elements, allowing each segment to independently adjust to residual limb shape changes while maintaining overall structural integrity
Solution Approach 2:
The socket transitions from a static structure to a dynamic one by incorporating flexible elements that enable movement and adjustment, allowing the socket to adapt to changing residual limb dimensions and shapes
2Productivity
If customized sockets are formed over models, then fitting precision is improved, but productivity deteriorates due to extensive manufacturing time and skill requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustable socket system is designed as a universal solution that can accommodate multiple residual limb sizes and shapes through adjustment mechanisms, eliminating the need for custom manufacturing while maintaining proper fit
Solution Approach 2:
The socket is pre-configured with adjustment mechanisms and flexible elements that enable post-manufacturing customization, allowing rapid adaptation to individual patients without requiring complex custom fabrication processes
3Adaptability or versatility
If rigid sockets are used, then structural strength is improved, but adaptability deteriorates because they cannot accommodate shape fluctuations
Solution Approach 1:
Different parts of the socket have different properties - rigid components provide structural strength while flexible elements provide adaptability, with each part optimized for its specific function
Solution Approach 2:
The socket combines rigid materials for structural support with flexible materials for adaptability, creating a composite structure that exhibits both strength and compliance
Data Source
AI summary
An adjustable prosthetic socket includes proximal and distal ends and an axis extending between the proximal and distal ends. A distal base is adapted to support a distal portion of a residual limb and is located at the distal end of the socket. First and second spines extend upward from the distal base that define at least part of a circumference of the socket about the axis. A proximal support is connected to the second spine and arranged to distribute pressure from the second spine over a portion of the residual limb. A tensioning system is operatively connected to the first and second spines and arranged to selectively adjust the circumference of the socket. The tensioning system includes a dial tensioner connected to the first spine.