Foot Prosthesis Damping Element for Shock Absorption and Energy Restitution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current foot prostheses fail to adequately replicate the kinematics of a human foot, leading to inadequate shock absorption, energy restitution, and rapid wear due to friction, especially on uneven surfaces.
Innovation Solution
A foot prosthesis design featuring a damping element with a shape resembling a human foot, incorporating a connecting rod between the toe and ankle, energy accumulation and restitution means between the toe and instep, and a blade made of composite material that deforms to accumulate and restore energy, with adjustable components to mimic human foot movements and adapt to different walking conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If a blade prosthesis is used to accumulate and return energy, then energy restitution is improved, but the prosthesis wears out quickly due to friction from constant ground contact
Solution Approach 1:
A shoe insert is introduced as an intermediary element between the blade prosthesis and the ground. The insert absorbs friction and wear during ground contact, allowing the blade prosthesis to maintain its energy storage and return functions without direct degradation from abrasive contact, thereby extending the prosthesis lifespan while preserving energy restitution capability
Solution Approach 2:
The shoe insert is designed as a replaceable, consumable component that can be easily replaced when worn. This allows the expensive, long-lasting blade prosthesis to remain intact while the cheaper insert absorbs the wear and tear from ground contact, effectively protecting the main prosthesis structure
2Device complexity
If a simple support plate is used, then the structure is simplified, but shock absorption and energy return capabilities are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges a passive support plate structure with an active shoe insert system that includes energy storage elements. The support plate provides structural simplicity and ground contact function, while the shoe insert adds shock absorption and energy return capabilities through its material properties and design, combining both simplicity and functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The shoe insert utilizes materials with specific viscoelastic properties that change their mechanical parameters based on loading conditions. During impact, the material softens to absorb shock, then stiffens to return energy, dynamically adjusting its mechanical properties to provide both shock absorption and energy return without complex mechanical structures
3Use of energy by moving object
If a blade prosthesis is used to reproduce foot movements, then energy accumulation is improved, but adaptability to uneven terrain is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The shoe insert is designed with dynamic characteristics that allow it to adapt to varying terrain conditions. The viscoelastic material properties and geometric design enable the insert to deform and adjust its stiffness characteristics in response to different ground surfaces, providing terrain adaptability while the blade prosthesis maintains its energy accumulation function
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 design enhances walking comfort and extends the lifespan of the prosthesis by providing effective shock absorption, energy restitution, and adaptability to various terrains, reducing friction-related wear and allowing for fine adjustments to suit individual needs and environments.
Implementation Method 1
a blade made of composite material that deforms to accumulate and restore energy
Implementation Method 2
energy accumulation and restitution means between the toe and instep
Implementation Method 3
a damping element with a shape resembling a human foot
Implementation Method 4
effective shock absorption
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a foot prosthesis (1, 61) comprising a heel (6, 71) and a tip (7, 62), both of which can bear on the ground, and an ankle support (2, 67), characterised in that the prosthesis also comprises at least one damping element (10, 76) designed to be at a distance from the ground.