Prosthetic Socket Belt Attachment Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for attaching prosthetic devices to residual limbs fail to effectively prevent longitudinal and rotational movement while providing comfort and an individualized fit.
Innovation Solution
A prosthetic device with a liner and socket system that includes a belt guided over rollers, where the belt passes from the outer to the inner surface of the socket to engage with the liner, providing a secure attachment mechanism that adjusts tension to fix the socket's position relative to the liner.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional attachment methods (belts, straps, harnesses, suction liners) are used to retain and suspend the prosthetic device, then the prosthetic device can be attached to the residual limb, but longitudinal and rotational movement of the limb within the prosthetic device cannot be effectively prevented
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment mechanism is divided into multiple functional components: a belt system for circumferential retention, rollers for controlled movement, and a mating engagement system with the liner. This segmentation allows each component to address specific movement constraints independently, preventing both longitudinal and rotational movement while maintaining comfort.
Solution Approach 2:
The liner acts as an intermediary element between the user's residual limb and the prosthetic socket. The belt system engages with the liner rather than directly with the limb or socket, providing a secure attachment while distributing forces evenly. This intermediary approach enhances both retention and comfort.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional attachment methods are used, then the prosthetic device can be attached to the residual limb, but individualized fit and comfort cannot be adequately provided
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment mechanism incorporates dynamic elements including adjustable belt tensioning and rollers that can move to accommodate different limb shapes and sizes. This allows the system to adapt to individual user anatomy while maintaining comfort through controlled movement and even force distribution.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows for parameter adjustments in belt tension, roller position, and engagement force to achieve an individualized fit. These adjustable parameters enable customization for different users and different stages of healing or muscle atrophy, providing both adaptability and comfort.
3Reliability
If a secure attachment mechanism is implemented to fix the position of the prosthetic socket, then longitudinal and rotational movement is prevented, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The belt system serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides circumferential retention, prevents longitudinal movement through tension, prevents rotational movement through its engagement geometry with the liner, and allows for adjustable positioning. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components for each constraint, thereby limiting the increase in overall device complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is directed to prosthetic device for attaching a mechanical limb to a user. The prosthetic device includes a liner, a prosthetic socket worn over the liner and an attachment mechanism. The attachment mechanism includes a belt that is guided over rollers coupled to the outside of the socket. A portion of the belt passes from the outer surface of the socket to the inner surface of the prosthetic socket to contact and matingly engage the liner, thereby fixing the position of the prosthetic socket with respect to the liner and the users limb.