Prosthetic Liner Friction Patterning to Prevent Socket Rotation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Prosthetic liners often rotate within the socket due to exerted forces during use, leading to discomfort and reduced control, particularly for users with conical or symmetrical residual limbs, and this rotation is exacerbated by fluctuations in limb volume throughout the day.
Innovation Solution
The anti-rotational liner features elastomeric regions on its outer surface, arranged in various patterns such as strips, dots, or text, which increase friction between the liner and the socket, thereby reducing rotation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If textured outer surfaces or geometric patterns are incorporated to increase friction, then rotation is reduced, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies elastomeric regions with higher friction coefficients specifically at strategic locations on the liner's outer surface where rotational forces are greatest, rather than uniformly texturing the entire surface. This localized application of high-friction material reduces rotation while minimizing manufacturing complexity compared to full-surface texturing.
2Stability of the object's composition
If suction or vacuum suspension systems are used to hold the liner in place, then rotation is reduced, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the need for complex suction or vacuum suspension systems by using simple elastomeric friction-enhancing regions on the liner surface. This approach achieves rotational stability through material property selection rather than mechanical suspension systems, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining the anti-rotation function.
3Strength
If fabric outer covering is used to increase durability, then liner strength is improved, but friction with socket is reduced leading to increased rotation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a composite construction with a fabric outer covering for durability combined with elastomeric regions that provide high friction. This composite approach allows the fabric to maintain structural integrity and strength while the elastomeric portions enhance grip and prevent rotation, resolving the contradiction between durability and rotational stability.
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 elastomeric regions enhance friction, preventing rotation and improving stability, while maintaining ease of donning and doffing, and can be customized for different limb shapes and activity levels.
Implementation Method 1
These elastomeric regions are configured to increase friction between the outer surface of the liner body and the inner surface of the prosthetic socket, thereby reducing rotation of the prosthetic socket relative to the residual limb during use
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides a prosthetic liner comprising a liner body configured to fit over a residual limb of an amputee, the liner body having an outer surface, and one or more elastomeric regions disposed on the outer surface of the liner body. The one or more elastomeric regions are configured to increase friction between the outer surface of the liner body and an inner surface of a prosthetic socket. The elastomeric regions may be arranged in a pattern on the outer surface, such as strips, lines, dots, or a customizable image. The liner body may be covered with a fabric material except for the elastomeric regions, which are formed from an exposed elastic polymer material.