Digital Limb Model for Prosthesis Socket Fit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for manufacturing prosthesis sockets are subjective, non-reproducible, and costly, often requiring multiple trial sockets and tomographic imaging, which fail to consistently achieve an optimal fit due to manual measurement variability and high equipment costs.
Innovation Solution
A method involving digital detection of the limb surface, determination of tissue consistency, and reduction of volume slices to create a precise digital model for prosthesis socket production, using scanning and sonography to optimize fit while maintaining thickness and shape, and incorporating a bone model for accurate adaptation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If manual measurement methods are used to determine reduction dimensions, then the process is simple and low-cost, but the measurement precision and reproducibility deteriorate due to subjective components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical measurement methods with an automated optical scanning system. A laser scanner or camera system captures three-dimensional surface data of the residual limb, eliminating subjective human measurement and enabling precise, reproducible digital models without requiring complex tomographic imaging equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a digital copy (3D model) of the residual limb surface through scanning. This digital model serves as a reproducible representation that can be stored, analyzed, and used for socket design without requiring repeated physical measurements or plaster casts, ensuring consistency across multiple production instances.
2Measurement precision
If tomographic imaging methods are used to obtain three-dimensional data, then measurement precision improves, but device complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs relatively simple, inexpensive scanning equipment (laser scanners or standard cameras) instead of expensive, complex tomographic imaging systems like CT or MRI. While the equipment is more capable than basic tape measures, it remains significantly less costly and less complex than medical tomography equipment, making the process accessible in regular prosthetics workshops.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts only the necessary surface geometry information from the residual limb using external scanning, without requiring the limb to be imaged internally through tomography. This approach captures sufficient data for socket design while avoiding the complexity and cost of penetrating imaging methods.
3Measurement precision
If tomographic imaging is used to capture limb stump data, then three-dimensional measurement accuracy improves, but the ability to capture muscle contraction states deteriorates since imaging can only be done in relaxed state
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables dynamic data capture by allowing scanning of the residual limb in various functional states, including muscle contraction. The portable scanning system can record the limb surface geometry while the patient performs specific movements or contracts muscles, providing data that reflects actual usage conditions rather than only the relaxed state.
4Manufacturing precision
If multiple trial sockets are produced to achieve optimal fit, then manufacturing precision improves, but productivity deteriorates due to extended production time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary actions by creating an accurate digital model of the residual limb with proper reduction dimensions before any socket fabrication begins. The software calculates and visualizes the reduced volume model in advance, allowing the first production socket to be made correctly from the start, eliminating the need for iterative trial-and-error with multiple test sockets.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms through software that automatically calculates reduction dimensions based on measured tissue compressibility and limb geometry. The system provides visual feedback showing the reduced volume model and allows verification before production, ensuring the first socket design is optimized and reducing the need for subsequent adjustments.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a method for creating a model for a limb stump for the production of a prosthetic socket and a method for producing the prosthetic socket as well as a prosthetic socket.