Displaceable Coupling Element for Prosthesis Socket Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for securing a prosthesis socket to an upper arm stump often result in inadequate adhesion force, especially under tensile loads, and can restrict shoulder mobility due to the use of belts and buckles, leading to uncertainty for patients.
Innovation Solution
A prosthesis socket retainer system with a securing part guided under the axilla and a displaceable coupling element that secures to the prosthesis socket, allowing mechanical fastening without restricting shoulder mobility, using a combination of straps, cuffs, and guides to distribute tension across the torso, ensuring the prosthesis socket remains securely attached while allowing full range of motion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional belt constructions with belts and buckles are used to secure the prosthesis socket, then mechanical fastening is achieved, but shoulder mobility is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling element is designed to be displaceable along the securing part, allowing it to move dynamically as the shoulder joint moves. This dynamic adjustment capability maintains mechanical fastening while accommodating the full range of shoulder motion, resolving the contradiction between secure attachment and mobility.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling element acts as an intermediary between the securing part and the prosthesis socket. It provides the mechanical connection while its displaceable mounting allows it to compensate for movement, mediating between the need for secure fastening and the requirement for unrestricted shoulder movement.
2Ease of operation
If suction socket technology with a liner is used, then the prosthesis socket can be secured to the upper arm stump, but adhesion force may be inadequate under tensile load
Solution Approach 1:
The displaceable coupling element can move along the securing part to compensate for changes in stump volume and maintain consistent mechanical attachment. This dynamic adjustment ensures reliable connection even when adhesion force varies due to stump volume changes or tensile loads.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention combines suction socket technology with a mechanical coupling element and securing part. This hybrid approach merges the comfort and simplicity of suction attachment with the reliability of mechanical fastening, ensuring adequate adhesion force under tensile load while maintaining ease of operation.
3Reliability
If the coupling element is fixed to the securing part, then mechanical fastening is ensured, but shoulder joint mobility is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling element is mounted displaceably on the securing part, allowing it to move dynamically along the securing part as the shoulder joint moves. This dynamic capability ensures mechanical fastening is maintained while adapting to the full range of shoulder motion, resolving the contradiction between secure attachment and joint mobility.
Data Source
AI summary
A prosthesis socket retaining device and a system for securing a prosthesis socket to an upper extremity, comprising a securing part that can be guided along the torso below the axilla of the contralateral, unprovided side of a patient, and a coupling element which can be secured to the prosthesis socket and connected to the securing part, wherein the coupling element is displaceably mounted on the securing part.