Percutaneous Bone-Integrated Prosthetic Interface
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for attaching prosthetic devices to amputated limbs are inadequate for secure attachment and do not effectively utilize nervous system signaling, limiting the functionality and versatility of prosthetic use.
Innovation Solution
A mechanical-neuro connection system that includes a hollow long bone axial rod, a transfer rod with a central channel, and attachment rings for muscle and dermal layers, along with a system to collect and transmit nerve signaling data, allowing for secure attachment and enhanced limb function through mechanical and percutaneous neural interfaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional attachment methods (suction, locking pin, harness) are used, then prosthetic devices can be attached to the stump, but they cannot capture and utilize nervous system signaling
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the attachment function into two independent components: a mechanical attachment system (axial rod, transfer rod, attachment rings) for securing the prosthetic device, and a percutaneous neural interface system (penetrating the skin to access nerves) for capturing nervous system signaling. This segmentation allows each component to specialize in its function without interfering with the other, resolving the contradiction between mechanical attachment and neural signal capture.
Solution Approach 2:
The prosthetic attachment system is designed with multi-functionality to simultaneously perform mechanical attachment and neural interface functions. The system can attach various types of prosthetic devices while also capturing and transmitting nerve signaling data, eliminating the need for separate systems and enabling both functions to coexist without loss of information.
2Reliability
If suction attachment is used, then secure attachment is achieved, but the user must put the prosthesis on accurately which complicates the operation
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment system incorporates self-aligning features through the axial rod and transfer rod mechanism that automatically position the prosthetic device correctly during application. The ratchet retention spring ball system provides self-locking functionality that secures the attachment without requiring precise manual positioning, allowing the system to self-correct minor misalignments and achieve secure attachment while simplifying the application process.
3Reliability
If a locking pin is used, then attachment is achieved, but it causes irritation where it contacts the stump
Solution Approach 1:
The system introduces an intermediary attachment mechanism consisting of the axial rod inserted into the medullary cavity and the transfer rod with attachment rings that distribute mechanical loads across multiple attachment points. This intermediary system replaces the direct point-contact locking pin with a distributed attachment structure that reduces pressure concentration and minimizes irritation to the stump tissue while maintaining secure attachment.
4Reliability
If a harness is used, then attachment is achieved, but it is bulky and does not move as well as other systems
Solution Approach 1:
The system extracts the attachment function from the external harness structure and relocates it internally through the axial rod and transfer rod system that attaches directly to the bone structure. By taking out the attachment mechanism from the external soft-tissue-based harness and placing it within the rigid skeletal framework, the system eliminates the bulkiness and movement restrictions associated with harnesses while maintaining secure attachment.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for improving limb function through the use of percutaneous mechanical and neural interfaces. The system generally uses a hollow long bone axial rod that is inserted into the long bone medullary cavity. A transfer rod with a central channel is mounted to the long bone axial rod. An exterior body attachment is connected to the transfer rod and attachment rings attach muscle groups, fascia layers and dermal layers to the transfer rod. Additionally, the system is configured to collect and transmit nerve signaling data to an external processor and additionally configured to transmit data from the external processor to the plurality of nerves.