Prosthetic Hand Covering with Segmented Elastomer and Polyurethane Layers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Prosthetic hands often face challenges in ease of donning and doffing, mechanical coupling with the hand, and performance in fine motor tasks due to existing coverings, which can be messy and lack sufficient grip and stability.
Innovation Solution
A covering for prosthetic hands comprising a first elastomer layer and a unitary polyurethane second layer, where parts of the interior surface are uncovered to enhance mechanical coupling and a textured polyurethane film for improved grip and ease of use, with specific patterns of coverage to facilitate easy application and enhanced functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a covering is applied to a prosthetic hand, then the appearance and protection are improved, but the ease of putting on and removing the covering deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The covering is divided into two distinct layers: a first layer in the form of a glove or mitten and a second layer disposed over at least part of the surface of the first layer. This segmentation allows each layer to serve specific functions - the first layer provides protection and appearance while the second layer facilitates ease of donning and doffing through its material properties
Solution Approach 2:
The covering uses composite materials with the first layer made of one material and the second layer made of a different material. This composite structure combines the benefits of both materials - the protective and aesthetic properties of the first layer with the ease-of-application properties of the second layer, resolving the contradiction between protection and ease of operation
2Ease of operation
If the interior surface of the covering is fully covered, then the comfort is improved, but the mechanical coupling with the prosthetic hand deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The second layer is disposed over only at least part of the surface of the first layer, specifically covering areas where comfort is needed while leaving the interior surface adjacent to the prosthetic hand uncovered. This local differentiation allows the covered areas to provide comfort while the uncovered interior surface maintains mechanical coupling with the prosthetic hand through direct contact
3Reliability
If the interior surface adjacent to digits is uncovered, then the mechanical coupling is improved, but the stability during fine motor tasks deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The covering applies the second layer selectively to specific regions, leaving the interior surface adjacent to digits uncovered for mechanical coupling while covering other areas to provide stability during fine motor tasks. This localized application of the second layer allows different regions to optimize for their specific functional requirements
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a covering (10) for a prosthetic hand. The covering (10) comprises a first layer (12) in the form of a glove or mitten configured to cover a prosthetic hand, with the first layer (12) comprising an elastomer. The covering (10) also comprises a second layer (14) disposed over at least part of a surface of the first layer (12), with the second layer being unitary and comprising polyurethane. At least one part of an interior surface of the first layer (12) is uncovered by the second layer (14).