Adjustable Socket System Radial Struts Limb Fit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional prosthetic sockets are static and fail to accommodate shape and volume fluctuations of residual limbs, leading to discomfort, pain, and soft tissue breakdown due to poor pressure distribution and lack of breathability.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable socket system with radially adjustable struts and a tightening system that automatically adjusts fit based on load and activity level, providing a customizable fit and improved pressure distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional static sockets are used, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but they fail to accommodate shape and volume fluctuations of the residual limb causing discomfort and pain
Solution Approach 1:
The socket incorporates radially adjustable struts that can dynamically change the internal volume and shape of the socket to match fluctuations in the residual limb. The struts are movable between extended and retracted positions, allowing the socket to adapt to changing limb dimensions while maintaining structural support.
Solution Approach 2:
The socket is divided into multiple adjustable struts rather than being a single rigid structure. Each strut can be independently adjusted to modify the socket's internal geometry, providing localized adaptation to different regions of the residual limb while maintaining overall structural integrity.
2Stress or pressure
If conventional rigid sockets with uniform shape are used, then ease of manufacture is maintained, but poor force distribution causes pressure concentration and tissue breakdown
Solution Approach 1:
Different regions of the socket are provided with struts of varying lengths and adjustment ranges, allowing localized optimization of pressure distribution. The struts can be selectively adjusted to create specific pressure relief zones or support areas based on the unique anatomical characteristics and pressure requirements of different parts of the residual limb.
3Strength
If conventional sockets are made to fit closely for firm connection, then support is improved, but circulation is impeded causing discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustable struts enable the socket to dynamically adapt its fit, providing firm connection where support is needed while creating clearance where circulation requires space. The struts can be repositioned to maintain optimal contact pressure without excessive compression that would restrict blood flow.
4Adaptability or versatility
If conventional sockets are made bulky to accommodate limb fluctuations, then adaptability is improved, but ease of donning and comfort are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The struts can be positioned in an extended configuration to create a larger opening for easier donning, then adjusted to a retracted configuration to provide a snug, comfortable fit once the limb is inserted. This dynamic adjustment eliminates the need for excessively bulky sockets while maintaining adaptability to volume fluctuations.
Data Source
AI summary
An adjustable socket system includes a distal portion and proximal portion. An axis extends between the distal and proximal portions. A plurality of struts are connected to the distal portion and distributed circumferentially about the axis. The struts at least in part define a receiving volume adapted to receive a residual limb and are movable between an expanded configuration in which at least some of the struts are moved radially outward relative to the axis to loosen the fit of the adjustable system, and a closed configuration in which at least some of the struts are moved radially inward relative to the expanded configuration to tighten the fit of the adjustable socket system. A tightening system is operatively connected to the struts and arranged to differentially tighten and loosen the fit of the adjustable socket system on one or more areas of the residual limb via a single input.