Computerized Prosthesis Alignment System with Transducer
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Solution Overview
Problem
The alignment of prosthetic devices for amputees is currently imprecise and inconsistent, relying on subjective judgment by prosthetists, which affects the functional performance and comfort of the user.
Innovation Solution
A computerized prosthesis alignment system that includes a transducer integrated into the prosthesis to measure socket reactions in the anterior/posterior and right/left planes, while canceling transverse forces, and a master unit for wireless data transmission to a host computer for processing and alignment instructions, utilizing strain gages and a gyroscope for precise alignment adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If visual alignment methods are used by prosthetists, then the alignment process is simple and quick, but the alignment precision and consistency are poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical visual alignment method with a computerized measurement system that uses transducers to directly measure socket reactions. This substitution transforms the alignment process from subjective visual estimation to objective quantitative measurement, thereby improving alignment precision while accepting increased system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces transducers as intermediary devices between the prosthesis socket and the measurement system. These transducers convert mechanical socket reactions into measurable signals, serving as a mediator that enables precise quantification of alignment parameters without requiring direct visual assessment by the prosthetist.
2Measurement precision
If transducers are integrated into the prosthesis to measure socket reactions, then alignment precision is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the transducer components directly into the prosthesis structure, specifically integrating them into the pyramid adaptor and tube clamp adaptor. This integration combines the measurement function with the existing mechanical components, reducing the need for separate external measurement devices and minimizing additional structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The transducers serve multiple functions: they measure socket reactions in multiple planes (anterior/posterior and right/left), provide real-time feedback during alignment adjustments, and enable both static and dynamic alignment measurements. This multi-functionality justifies the added complexity by delivering comprehensive measurement capabilities from a single integrated system.
3Reliability
If computerized measurement systems are used, then alignment consistency is improved, but the ease of operation decreases due to complex data processing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the computerized system continuously monitors socket reactions and provides real-time feedback to the prosthetist during alignment adjustments. This feedback loop enables consistent and repeatable alignment measurements while guiding the operator through the process, thereby maintaining ease of operation despite the sophisticated measurement capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The alignment system performs automated data processing and analysis, with the computer automatically calculating alignment parameters from the transducer measurements. This self-service capability reduces the manual computational burden on the prosthetist, maintaining operational simplicity while ensuring consistent and reliable alignment results through automated processing.
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 accurate and consistent alignment of prosthetic devices, enhancing the comfort and functional performance of amputees by quantifying and interpreting moment data for optimal alignment, offering precise adjustments and feedback to prosthetists.
Implementation Method 1
a transducer that can measure the socket reactions in the anterior/posterior plane and the right/left planes
Implementation Method 2
utilizing strain gages and a gyroscope for precise alignment adjustments
Data Source
AI summary
A computerized prosthesis alignment system includes a transducer that can measure socket reactions in the anterior/posterior plane and the right/left planes, while canceling or reducing the transverse forces on the measurements of these socket reactions. In addition, the transducer is also capable of determining the axial load or weight experienced by the prosthesis. The computerized prosthesis alignment system is in communication with a host computer. The moment data from the transducer is interpreted by the user via a computer interface. The host computer includes memory for storing one or more applications. These applications receive data from the transducer, interpret the data with discrete algebraic or fuzzy logic algorithms, and display the output numerically and graphically. Applications may also interpret the data to provide analyses to the user for aligning the prosthesis.