Bi-directional Prosthetic Limb Connection with Linear Adjustability
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Solution Overview
Problem
The current process for fitting amputees with prosthetic limbs is cumbersome, time-consuming, and costly due to the need for multiple iterations and visits to adjust the prosthetic socket to align the line of force correctly with the amputee's physiology.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable prosthetic limb connection system that includes a mounting plate, an alignment mechanism with a base plate, outer cam, and center cam, and a lower connector, allowing for adjustments in two degrees of freedom in the transverse plane to align the line of force properly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional single direction adjustments are used to align the line of force, then the fitting process can be simplified, but the alignment precision is insufficient because two directions of adjustment are frequently required simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment mechanism is divided into two independent adjustment systems: a first adjustment system for adjusting alignment in a first direction, and a second adjustment system for adjusting alignment in a second direction. Each system can be adjusted independently, allowing simultaneous adjustment in both directions without complicating the overall fitting process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from single-direction adjustment to two-directional adjustment by adding a second adjustment system that operates perpendicular to the first. This dimensional expansion allows the line of force to be aligned in both transverse directions simultaneously, achieving precise alignment while maintaining ease of operation.
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple iterations with new test sockets are performed to achieve correct alignment, then the alignment precision improves, but the time and cost increase excessively
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment mechanism incorporates adjustable components that allow the alignment to be modified after the socket is initially fitted. Instead of requiring multiple iterations with new sockets, the dynamic adjustment system enables real-time modification of the line of force alignment, achieving precise alignment within a single fitting session.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustment mechanism allows the fitting process to be completed and refined by the same socket through built-in adjustment capabilities. The system enables self-correction of alignment issues without requiring removal and replacement with new test sockets, thereby reducing fitting time and cost.
3Device complexity
If fixed offset components are used for alignment adjustments, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability is limited because the adjustment may not be optimum for each amputee
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustment mechanism uses dynamic components including cams with adjustable positions and movable adjustment elements that allow the offset to be changed. This enables the system to adapt to different amputee requirements while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure through the use of standardized adjustment components.
Data Source
AI summary
An adjustable prosthetic limb connection with a mounting plate, an alignment mechanism, and a lower connector. The mounting plate is configured to attach to a prosthetic limb socket, the alignment mechanism is configured to couple with the mounting plate, and the lower connector is configured to attach to the alignment mechanism and to a prosthetic limb. The alignment mechanism is configured to allow adjustment of the alignment of the lower connector with respect to the mounting plate with at least two linear degrees of freedom. The alignment mechanism may comprise a base plate and a linear slide. The base plate is configured to be secured against the mounting plate and may have first and second rows of teeth. The linear slide may be positioned between the base plate and the mounting plate and may have first and second ridges configured to interface with the first and second rows of teeth.