Internal Prosthetic Socket Sealing System for Vacuum Suspension
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current vacuum suspension systems for above-knee amputees are inadequate, leading to discomfort and malfunction due to difficulties in maintaining a secure seal, especially when the residual limb changes shape or size, and existing internal sealing systems are restrictive and prone to 'tourniquet effects.
Innovation Solution
A socket sealing system featuring a flexible internal seal, such as a thin-walled elastomeric band or inflatable elastomeric sealing ring, that secures to the socket and adapts to the residual limb, maintaining a vacuum seal despite changes in limb shape or size, and can be integrated with a prosthetic liner or attached to the socket wall for enhanced durability and comfort.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a suspension sleeve is placed over the brim portion of the socket to seal against the residual limb, then vacuum suspension is achieved, but the system becomes bulky and uncomfortable in the groin area
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing function is extracted from the external suspension sleeve and relocated to an internal sealing component positioned within the socket. This internal seal eliminates the need for a bulky external sleeve, achieving vacuum suspension while maintaining comfort in the groin area.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of sealing from the outside with a suspension sleeve over the brim, the invention inverts the approach by sealing from the inside with a component positioned within the socket that reflects or engages with the liner to create the vacuum seal.
2Reliability
If the liner is reflected over the brim and sealed with a sleeve, then vacuum suspension is achieved, but the system becomes durable against bumps, yet the sealing sleeve remains bulky and uncomfortable
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing function is extracted from the external suspension sleeve and relocated to an internal sealing component positioned within the socket. This internal seal eliminates the need for a bulky external sleeve, achieving vacuum suspension while maintaining comfort in the groin area.
Solution Approach 2:
The sealing function is merged with the liner and internal socket components. The liner is reflected over the brim and engaged with an internal sealing component, combining the sealing function with existing structural elements rather than adding a separate external sleeve.
3Ease of operation
If an internal sealing system is used, then comfort is improved by eliminating external sleeves, but the seal becomes restrictive and may cause a tourniquet effect
Solution Approach 1:
The internal sealing component is designed with localized sealing features that engage only at the brim area where the liner is reflected, rather than applying circumferential pressure along the entire length of the residual limb. This concentrates the sealing action locally, preventing the tourniquet effect while maintaining comfort.
Solution Approach 2:
The internal sealing component is designed to be dynamic rather than rigid, allowing it to adapt to changes in the residual limb shape and size. This flexibility prevents the seal from becoming restrictive and causing a tourniquet effect while maintaining effective vacuum suspension.
4Reliability
If the sealing component is positioned low within the socket, then vacuum suspension is achieved, but the vacuum force is concentrated over too small an area of the residual limb
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing component is designed to engage with the reflected liner over an extended area, distributing the vacuum force across a larger surface. By utilizing the reflected portion of the liner and engaging along its length rather than at a single low point, the vacuum distribution area is increased in the axial dimension.
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 system provides a comfortable, durable, and adaptable vacuum seal that maintains fit during various activities and physical changes, preventing air leaks and ensuring proper vacuum levels for secure prosthetic attachment.
Implementation Method 1
A vacuum device can then be used to evacuate the socket interior to some desired vacuum level, the force of the vacuum holding the prosthetic socket (and prosthesis) on the residual limb.
Implementation Method 2
The distal portion of the sealing membrane is preferably of sufficient length to extend distally into the socket for some distance past the shoulder, which enhances the sealing contact between the membrane and the liner (or limb).
Data Source
AI summary
Prosthetic socket sealing systems and methods of use. Embodiments of the present invention include various combinations of sealing elements that are associated with a rigid prosthetic socket and act to seal the socket interior against air intrusion or escape via the open proximal end thereof. The socket interior may thus be evacuated for purposes of vacuum suspension or otherwise.