Interchangeable Liner Pads for Prosthetic Socket Fit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing prosthetics are often custom-fit and expensive, making them unsuitable for use in wet environments without risking damage, and they lack adjustable features for improved comfort and functionality.
Innovation Solution
A semi-custom fit prosthetic device with a modular padded lining, adjustable telescoping pylon, and a handle for enhanced control, designed to be used in wet environments without the need for additional casing, and allowing for customizable fit and functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If custom-fit prosthetics are used, then comfort and functionality are improved, but the risk of damage in wet environments increases
Solution Approach 1:
The prosthetic device is divided into separate modular components: a reusable outer shell and interchangeable liner pads. The liner pads can be removed and replaced, allowing the user to discard water-containing pads while retaining the expensive outer shell. This segmentation resolves the contradiction by protecting the custom-fit outer shell from water damage while maintaining comfort through customizable liner pads.
Solution Approach 2:
The liner pads are designed to be disposable or replaceable components that can be discarded after use in wet environments, while the main prosthetic shell is recovered and reused. This allows the user to maintain the integrity of the expensive custom-fit shell while using affordable, replaceable liners that can be discarded after water exposure.
2Ease of manufacture
If universal prosthetics are used, then cost is reduced and wet environment use is enabled, but custom-fit adjustment is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The prosthetic is segmented into a universal outer shell and interchangeable liner pads with varying thicknesses and configurations. Users can select different liner pad combinations to customize the fit for their specific needs, thereby maintaining adaptability while using a standardized, cost-effective shell design.
Solution Approach 2:
The prosthetic system is made dynamic through the ability to interchange liner pads based on changing user needs, activity levels, and comfort requirements. This allows a single universal shell to adapt to multiple users and situations through configurable liner combinations.
3Reliability
If inflatable bladders are used for adjustment, then comfort is improved, but ease of operation is reduced due to manual inflation requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The complex inflation mechanism and manual operation requirements are extracted from the system. Instead of using inflatable bladders that require manual pumping and pressure control, the invention uses simple, pre-configured liner pads with varying thicknesses that provide immediate, passive comfort adjustment without requiring user manipulation.
4Ease of operation
If a handle is added for control, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The handle is designed as a universal feature that serves multiple functions: it provides grip for transferring the prosthetic during transfer activities, acts as a support for standing, and can be positioned to accommodate different body types and mobility levels. This multi-functionality justifies the added structural element by maximizing its operational benefit across diverse user scenarios.
Data Source
AI summary
The prosthetic device is a general use prosthetic device for shower and daily mobility applications which provides a semi-custom fit. The semi-custom fitment of the leg height and anatomical sizing of the affected leg amputation are possible via configurable liner pads which can be interchanged within the support socket based on need by the wearer. The device is capable of being used on either the left or right leg with no modifications to the device and can be secured to the wearers residual limb via a friction fit between the socket liner and limb. Furthermore, an ergonomic handle and grip provides another point of control for the device to assure safety and security.