Modular Prosthetic Socket with Rocker Bolt Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional prosthetic devices for transtibial amputees are costly, require complex fabrication, and specialized facilities, and are difficult to adjust as residual limb shape changes over time, limiting global accessibility and affordability.
Innovation Solution
A rapid fit modular prosthetic apparatus with a rigid socket assembly, deformable liner, and adjustable rocker bolt system that allows for secure alignment and adjustment of the prosthetic shank and foot relative to the socket, enabling easy adaptation to changing limb shape and size without the need for specialized tools or facilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional prosthetic devices are used, then comfort and support are provided, but cost and fabrication complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The prosthetic device is divided into modular components including a socket assembly, shank assembly, and foot assembly that can be manufactured separately and assembled together. This segmentation simplifies fabrication by allowing each component to be produced using basic manufacturing processes without requiring specialized facilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates adjustable components such as the rocker bolt assembly that allows dynamic modification of the prosthetic's alignment and geometry. This enables the device to adapt to changing residual limb characteristics over time, maintaining comfort and support without requiring complete replacement or complex refabrication.
2Manufacturing precision
If conventional prosthetic devices are used, then initial fit is achieved, but adjustment becomes difficult as residual limb shape changes
Solution Approach 1:
The rocker bolt assembly enables dynamic adjustment of the shank and foot alignment relative to the socket. Users can modify the prosthetic's geometry to accommodate changes in residual limb shape and volume, maintaining proper fit and function throughout the prosthesis's service life.
Solution Approach 2:
The device allows modification of key geometric parameters such as ankle angle, foot orientation, and shank alignment through the adjustable rocker bolt mechanism. These parameter changes enable adaptation to residual limb changes without requiring remanufacturing.
3Manufacturing precision
If conventional prosthetic devices are used, then custom fit is achieved, but cost and specialized facilities are required
Solution Approach 1:
By dividing the prosthetic into standardized modular components, the device achieves custom fit through selection and assembly rather than custom fabrication. Each module can be manufactured using basic processes, eliminating the need for specialized facilities while still providing individualized fitting.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular components are designed with universal interfaces and standardized dimensions that work across different configurations. This universality allows the same basic components to serve multiple users with different residual limb characteristics, achieving custom fit without custom manufacturing.
4Strength
If conventional prosthetic devices are used, then structural integrity is maintained, but adjustment requires specialized tools and expertise
Solution Approach 1:
The rocker bolt assembly provides a simple mechanical adjustment mechanism that maintains structural integrity while requiring no specialized tools or expertise. Users can easily modify alignment parameters by adjusting the rocker bolts, and the design ensures that structural strength is preserved during these adjustments.
Data Source
AI summary
A Rapid Fit Modular Prosthetic Device that can be inexpensively manufactured using modern technology and advanced polymer materials. The Rapid Fit Modular Prosthetic Device will be immediately fit on the residual limb and aligned for optimal gait without specialized tools or labs, alleviating the many steps involved with conventional labor-intensive and costly prosthesis construction. The Rapid Fit Modular Prosthetic Device also accommodates the changing in size and shape of the limb, eliminating the need for multiple prostheses and adjustments to an existing prosthesis during the lifetime of an amputee.