Flexible Wrap Panel for Transfemoral Limb Support

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current post-operative support apparatuses for residual limbs after amputation are inadequate in accommodating changes in limb volume and shape due to swelling, atrophy, and dressing changes, and may cause damage to soft tissues with their rigid structures.

Innovation Solution

A flexible and stretchable post-operative support apparatus comprising a wrap panel with hook & loop fasteners, rigid side support panels in neoprene sleeves, a distal cushion, and a suspensory strap to securely fit around the residual limb, accommodating volume changes and preventing trauma.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If a hard plastic shell or socket is used to provide structural support, then the structural strength and stability are improved, but the ability to accommodate changes in limb volume and shape deteriorates, and the risk of damage to soft tissues increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestructural strengthVSAvoidability to accommodate changes in limb volume and shape

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The support apparatus is divided into multiple components: a flexible wrap panel that conforms to the limb, rigid side support panels for structural stability, a distal cushion for comfort, and a retainer for securing. This segmentation allows each component to fulfill its specific function while collectively providing both strength and adaptability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The wrap panel is made from flexible and stretchable material that can accommodate changes in the volume and shape of the residual limb as it heals. This flexible component replaces the traditional hard plastic shell, eliminating the risk of damage to soft tissues while maintaining the ability to provide structural support when combined with the rigid side panels.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

2Stability of the object's composition

If a hard plastic shell is used to maintain structural stability, then the stability is improved, but the adaptability to swelling and atrophy deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestructural stabilityVSAvoidadaptability to swelling and atrophy

Core Design Contradiction:

Stability of the object's compositionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The support apparatus transitions from a static hard plastic shell to a dynamic system where the flexible wrap panel can expand and contract to accommodate changes in limb volume. The rigid side support panels are contained within sleeves that allow the wrap panel to move dynamically, providing both stability and adaptability throughout the healing process.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

3Strength

If a rigid structure is used to provide support, then the support strength is improved, but the comfort and protection of soft tissues deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesupport strengthVSAvoiddamage to soft tissues

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The wrap panel made from flexible and stretchable material directly contacts the residual limb, providing a soft interface that protects sensitive soft tissues from damage. The rigid side support panels are positioned laterally within sleeves, providing structural strength without directly contacting the soft tissue, thus eliminating the harmful effect of rigid structures on delicate tissues.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Solution Approach 2:

The flexible wrap panel acts as an intermediary between the rigid side support panels and the residual limb. It transmits the support force from the rigid panels while maintaining a gentle, protective interface with the soft tissue, preventing direct contact between rigid structures and vulnerable tissues.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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 apparatus effectively supports the residual limb through adjustable components, reducing the risk of trauma and ensuring proper healing by accommodating swelling and atrophy, while maintaining stability and comfort.

Implementation Method 1

a planar, stretchable and flexible wrap panel sized to wrap around an outer circumference of a patient's residual limb

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

the wrap panel includes one or more fasteners (such as hook & loop fastener components) for maintaining the wrap panel in place around the patient's residual limb

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMechanical Fastening: Mechanical Fastener

Data Source

PatentUS11464656B2Post-operative support apparatus for a patient's residual limb

Publication Date: 2022.10.11 COBBLESTONE LLC

AI summary

A post-operative support apparatus for a patient's transfemoral residual limb, includes: a planar, stretchable, tensionable and flexible wrap panel sized to wrap around an outer circumference of a patient's transfemoral residual limb, where the wrap panel includes first fastener(s) for maintaining the wrap panel in place around the patient's residual limb; a planar, stretchable, tensionable and flexible hip-band sized to wrap around an outer circumference of a patient's hip or waist, where the hip-band includes second fastener(s) for maintaining the hip-band in place around the patient's hip or waist; and third fastener(s) releasably fastening the wrap panel to the hip-band.