Magnetic Toggle Valve for Prosthetic Socket Air Management
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Prosthetic sockets made from solid materials often trap air, leading to difficulties in achieving a consistent fit and removing the prosthetic device, as previous check valves require manual operation to manage air flow, which can be challenging for amputees.
Innovation Solution
A valve assembly with a magnetically toggleable check valve system that allows air to escape during insertion and enter during removal, enabling hands-free donning and doffing, using a combination of latch magnets and a spring-biased valve stem to manage air flow without compromising the socket's structural integrity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a solid prosthetic socket is used to maintain structural integrity and distribute forces, then the socket strength and fit are improved, but air becomes trapped inside making it difficult to achieve consistent fit and remove the device
Solution Approach 1:
The socket is segmented into a solid structural portion for strength and a separate valve assembly portion for air management. The valve assembly includes a valve body, valve stem, and latch mechanism that can be integrated into or attached to the solid socket, allowing the socket to maintain its structural integrity while incorporating a dedicated air escape pathway.
Solution Approach 2:
A valve assembly acts as an intermediary component between the solid socket and the air trapped inside. The valve assembly includes a valve stem that can move between positions to control air flow, and a latch mechanism with magnets that mediates the opening and closing of the valve during fitting and removal operations.
2Object-generated harmful factors
If a manual check valve is used to allow air escape, then air flow control is improved, but the complexity of operation increases requiring manual manipulation
Solution Approach 1:
The valve assembly is designed to be self-operating through the latch mechanism and magnetic forces. When the valve stem is in the open position, air can escape automatically without requiring manual manipulation. The latch mechanism with magnets automatically maintains the valve in the appropriate position based on the operational state (fitting vs. removal), eliminating the need for continuous manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The manual mechanical operation of traditional check valves is replaced with a magnetic latch system. Magnets within the latch mechanism interact with the valve stem and latch arm to automatically hold the valve in open or closed positions based on the operational context, substituting manual mechanical manipulation with magnetic field-based automation.
3Ease of operation
If a valve assembly is added to manage air flow, then ease of fitting and removal is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The valve assembly is designed to perform multiple functions within a compact structure: it controls air flow during fitting, maintains air flow during removal, and can be integrated with the socket structure. The latch mechanism serves both to hold the valve stem in position and to interface with the socket's structural elements, reducing the need for separate components.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve assembly components are nested within each other in a compact arrangement. The valve stem is positioned within the valve body, the latch mechanism is integrated into the valve assembly structure, and the entire valve assembly can be nested within or attached to the socket structure. This nesting minimizes the overall space required and reduces the apparent complexity.
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
Facilitates easier fitting and removal of prosthetic devices by allowing air to flow freely, reducing suction and enhancing the fit of the residual limb within the socket, while maintaining the socket's strength and minimizing user effort.
Implementation Method 1
A valve assembly with a magnetically toggleable check valve system that allows air to escape during insertion and enter during removal, enabling hands-free donning and doffing, using a combination of latch magnets and a spring-biased valve stem to manage air flow
Implementation Method 2
A valve assembly with a magnetically toggleable check valve system that allows air to escape during insertion and enter during removal, enabling hands-free donning and doffing, using a combination of latch magnets and a spring-biased valve stem to manage air flow
Data Source
AI summary
A technology is described to allow the controlled ingress and egress of air through a prosthetic socket by the insertion of a mechanical valve. The air flow through the valve is controlled by a toggle switch that moves a magnet to shift the position of a valve stem or valve obstruction in the valve. The normal, or closed, position allows flow out of the socket for donning and walking. The open position allows for free flow of air for donning or doffing.