Variable-Density Prosthetic Liner Modeling for Pressure Relief
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional prosthetic socket manufacturing methods fail to provide a proper distribution of pressure between the residual limb and the prosthetic device, leading to discomfort and injury, and are labor-intensive and costly.
Innovation Solution
A system and method utilizing computer-aided design (CAD), computer-aided engineering (CAE), and computer-assisted manufacturing (CAM) to create custom prosthetic sockets with variable internal structures, allowing for precise pressure distribution through digital modeling and 3D printing, using data from three-dimensional scans or manual measurements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If traditional prosthetic socket manufacturing methods are used, then customization is provided by certified practitioners, but proper pressure distribution is not achieved and pain or injuries occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating a socket with non-uniform density distribution, where different regions of the socket have different material densities to match the varying pressure requirements across different areas of the residual limb. The computer-generated model calculates optimal density values for specific socket regions based on the patient's anatomy, allowing high-density areas for structural support and low-density areas for pressure relief, thereby achieving proper pressure distribution and preventing pain or injuries
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes by varying the material density parameter throughout the socket structure. The system modifies the density parameter locally based on computational analysis of the residual limb geometry and pressure requirements, transforming a uniform material property into a spatially varying property that optimizes pressure distribution across the socket-limb interface
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional prosthetic socket manufacturing methods are used, then customization is provided, but the process is expensive and labor intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by implementing an automated computer-based system that performs the entire socket design process without requiring manual intervention from certified practitioners. The system automatically acquires patient data, generates the three-dimensional model, calculates optimal density distributions, and produces manufacturing instructions, thereby eliminating labor-intensive manual customization processes while maintaining adaptability to individual patient anatomy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/manual system of traditional socket manufacturing with an automated computer-based system. The manual processes of measurement, modeling, and design are substituted with computerized data acquisition, digital modeling, and algorithmic density optimization, significantly reducing labor time and cost while preserving customization capabilities
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for method including receiving data representing coordinates of a shape of a body part, forming a model of a flexible inner liner based upon the received data, the flexible inner liner configured to be placed over the body part, receiving, as input, a thickness and an offset of the model of the flexible inner liner, assigning a default density to an internal structure of the model; and varying the default density of the model without changing an outer geometry of the model to create a modified model of the flexible inner liner.