Prosthetic Digit Segmented Linkage Locking Mechanism
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current prosthetic solutions for partial hand loss often lack effective functionality, are complex, and expensive, making them inaccessible for immediate use, especially for those waiting for more advanced active prosthetics.
Innovation Solution
A prosthetic digit composed of multiple segments with rotational axes, incorporating movable joints, spring extension, and locking mechanisms, allowing for customizable articulation and grasping capabilities without electrical power, providing intermediate functionality until more advanced prosthetics are available.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If passive prostheses with movable joints are used to mimic digit anatomy, then cosmetic appearance and basic mobility are improved, but functionality remains minimal and device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The prosthetic digit is divided into multiple segments (proximal phalanx, intermediate phalanx, distal phalanx) that can be independently positioned and locked at different angles, allowing anatomical mimicry while maintaining structural simplicity through modular construction
Solution Approach 2:
The prosthesis incorporates movable joints with locking mechanisms that allow the digit to be adjusted to various configurations and postures, providing dynamic positioning capability without requiring continuous power or complex actuation systems
2Force
If active prostheses driven by power sources are used, then grasping force and functionality are improved, but device complexity, cost, and power requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The prosthetic digit utilizes the wearer's own hand muscles and tendons to provide the actuation force for movement and grasping, eliminating the need for external power sources while maintaining functional capability through biological energy
3Adaptability or versatility
If complex active prosthetics are pursued, then functionality is improved, but accessibility and immediate availability worsen due to cost and insurance requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The prosthesis is designed as a simple, low-cost passive device that can be manufactured affordably and provided immediately, serving as a temporary or long-term solution while more advanced prosthetics are pursued, without requiring expensive materials or complex assembly
Solution Approach 2:
The prosthetic digit serves as an intermediate solution between cosmetic prostheses and complex active prosthetics, providing meaningful functionality at a lower cost and complexity level that makes it accessible to a broader population immediately
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 prosthetic digit offers functional restoration for daily tasks without the complexity and cost of advanced prosthetics, serving as a temporary solution until more advanced prosthetics can be obtained, while providing reliable and efficient grasping capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
with one or more springs in the prosthetic digit causing the different segments of the digit to articulate to their extended position upon release of the lock
Data Source
AI summary
A prosthetic digit can include a proximal segment connected to an intermediate segment about a first axis of rotation and a distal segment connected to the intermediate segment about a second axis of rotation. A linkage can be connected to the proximal segment about a third axis of rotation and can couple the proximal segment to the distal segment. The linkage can be configured such that a distal end of the distal segment to rotate toward the proximal segment about the second axis of rotation when the intermediate segment is rotated in a palmar direction about the first axis of rotation. A unidirectional lock can allow the intermediate segment to rotate about the first axis of rotation in a palmar direction but not in a dorsal direction. A release mechanism can release the unidirectional lock to allow the intermediate segment to rotate in the dorsal direction.