Electric Vacuum Pump for Prosthetic Socket Evacuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing prosthetic socket evacuation devices using mechanical pumps are cumbersome, require manual effort, and lack adjustable vacuum control, making them unsuitable for various activities and user comfort levels, especially for individuals with limited dexterity or mobility.
Innovation Solution
An electrically-activated pump system that allows for portable, compact, and adjustable vacuum control within a prosthetic socket, enabling users to easily manage vacuum levels based on activity and comfort, with options for semi-automatic or automatic regulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a weight-activated pump is used to evacuate the prosthetic socket, then sub-atmospheric pressure can be maintained during ambulation, but the device becomes heavy and requires more space between the limb and prosthetic foot
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical weight-activated pump system with an electrically-powered vacuum pump. This substitution eliminates the need for mechanical weight activation while maintaining the vacuum function, thereby reducing the weight and space requirements of the prosthetic device.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the activation mechanism from mechanical (weight-based) to electrical, allowing for adjustable vacuum levels and continuous operation regardless of user movement. This parameter change enables the vacuum pump to operate independently of ambulation activities.
2Reliability
If a hand-held sub-atmospheric pressure pump is used, then socket evacuation can be achieved, but the device requires carrying and manual operation that demands dexterity and strength
Solution Approach 1:
The electrically-powered vacuum pump system is integrated into the prosthetic device itself, making it self-contained and eliminating the need for the user to carry or manually operate a separate pump. The system activates automatically or through simple control mechanisms built into the prosthesis.
Solution Approach 2:
The vacuum pump, power source, and control systems are merged into a single integrated unit within the prosthetic device. This combination eliminates the need for separate hand-held pumps and simplifies the overall system while maintaining evacuation functionality.
3Productivity
If a weight-activated pump is used, then vacuum can be created during movement, but the pump cannot draw vacuum when the user is sedentary
Solution Approach 1:
Replacing the mechanical weight-activated pump with an electrically-powered system allows the vacuum function to operate independently of user movement. The electric pump can be activated at any time through electrical control, providing versatility across all activity levels including sedentary periods.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrically-powered vacuum pump system incorporates adjustable control mechanisms that allow the vacuum level and operation timing to be dynamically adjusted based on user needs and activity level, providing adaptability that mechanical systems cannot achieve.
4Productivity
If a weight-activated pump is used, then vacuum evacuation occurs with each step, but the user cannot adjust the vacuum level for different activities or comfort preferences
Solution Approach 1:
The electrically-powered vacuum pump system incorporates adjustable control mechanisms that allow the vacuum level and operation timing to be dynamically adjusted based on user needs and activity level, providing adaptability that mechanical systems cannot achieve.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention enables multiple vacuum level parameters to be adjusted and controlled through electrical systems, allowing users to optimize vacuum settings for different activities, comfort preferences, and clinical requirements, unlike fixed mechanical systems.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The electrically-activated pump system provides easier and more efficient socket evacuation, allowing users to adjust vacuum levels as needed, enhancing comfort and usability, particularly for those with limited dexterity or mobility, and ensuring consistent socket evacuation regardless of the user's activity level.
Implementation Method 1
creating a sub-atmospheric pressure chamber between the residual limb and prosthetic device has, however, proved to be a challenge
Data Source
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AI summary
Evacuation devices for evacuating the socket of a prosthetic limb, and prosthetic limb systems employing such vacuum devices. The evacuation devices each preferably include at least an electrically powered vacuum pump and a power source. Such evacuation devices can be attached at various locations on or in a prosthetic limb. Because the electrically powered pump does not require manual manipulation to create vacuum, it is substantially easier to use than a manual pump. Due to the small size and small power source required by such an electrically powered pump, an evacuation device may be readily incorporated into a prosthesis.