Prosthetic Knit Loop Height Control via Segmented Needle Arrangement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for producing self-gripping textiles are limited in their ability to control the height and shape of loops, which restricts the gripping capabilities and material combinations available for prosthetic knits.
Innovation Solution
The method involves knitting a loop yarn, a first ground yarn, and a second ground yarn on at least three guide bars to form a looped knit, where the loop yarn forms a loop stitch between bond stitches on the same side, allowing for controlled loop height and shape.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single needle is used to form loop stitches, then the knitting process is simple, but the ability to control loop height and shape is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the single needle into multiple needles (first needle, second needle, third needle, etc.) arranged in sequence. Each needle forms a bond stitch, and loop stitches are formed between these segmented needles. This segmentation allows independent control of loop parameters while maintaining a systematic knitting process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single-dimension approach (one needle) to a multi-dimensional arrangement by positioning multiple needles in both warp and weft directions. The loop stitches connect bond stitches formed on different needles, creating loops with controllable height (warp direction) and shape (weft direction) through the spatial relationships between needles.
2Adaptability or versatility
If loops of varying height and shape are produced, then gripping capabilities are enhanced, but the knitting process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different knitting patterns to different regions of the fabric. Specific sequences of bond stitches and loop stitches are used in different areas to create loops of varying heights and shapes. This allows localized optimization of gripping properties in different zones of the prosthetic knit without requiring complete redesign of the entire knitting process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic control of needle selection and loop formation timing. By selectively activating different needles and controlling when loop stitches are formed relative to bond stitches, the system can dynamically adjust loop parameters during the knitting process, enabling varied gripping capabilities across the fabric while maintaining an efficient manufacturing process.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple materials are used for loop and ground yarns, then material combinations are expanded, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a universal knitting system that can accommodate multiple yarn types (loop yarns and ground yarns made of different biocompatible materials) using the same basic knitting mechanism and guide bar setup. The system is configured to handle various material properties through standardized processes, enabling diverse material combinations without proportionally increasing manufacturing complexity.
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
This approach enables the production of prosthetic knits with controlled loop height and shape, enhancing gripping capabilities and expanding material combinations for self-gripping textiles.
Implementation Method 1
The loops may be transformed by pressing the looped knit flat across a cylinder maintained at a temperature which results in melting of a head of the loop into the plurality of grip members.
Implementation Method 2
The loops may be transformed by pressing the looped knit flat across a cylinder maintained at a temperature which results in melting of a head of the loop into the plurality of grip members.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3A~4B
AI summary
The present disclosure is directed to methods of forming implantable prosthetic knits including one or more loops and/or grip members of a controlled height and/or shape, and the implantable prosthetic knits formed therefrom.