Prosthetic Socket Liner Vacuum Permeable Interface
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing prosthetic socket systems are cumbersome, difficult to use, particularly for smaller adults and children, and can be unhygienic due to size, weight, and the need for complex strap systems, as well as issues with perspiration and bacterial contamination.
Innovation Solution
A socket assembly with a vacuum-permeable skin interface, a high-vacuum valve, and an air barb connected to a vacuum source, utilizing a diffusion pillow and annular vacuum seal, made from lightweight materials like thermoformable plastic and textile materials, which allows for easy attachment and distribution of vacuum force, reducing weight and improving hygiene.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional strap systems and heavy socket structures are used, then the prosthetic device can be securely attached to the residual limb, but the device becomes cumbersome and difficult to use, especially for smaller adults and children
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the complex strap suspension system from the prosthetic socket design. Instead of using multiple straps and buckles, the invention employs a vacuum-permeable liner that creates suction attachment directly between the socket and residual limb, removing the cumbersome strap mechanism entirely while maintaining secure attachment
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies pneumatic principles by introducing a vacuum system through the air barb connection. The vacuum pressure creates a suction force that secures the prosthetic to the residual limb, replacing the mechanical strap system with a pneumatic attachment mechanism that is simpler and more efficient
2Object-affected harmful factors
If traditional non-vacuum-permeable liners are used, then structural integrity is maintained, but perspiration accumulates leading to unhygienic conditions and bacterial contamination
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a vacuum-permeable liner made from porous or breathable material that allows perspiration vapor to escape while maintaining the vacuum seal. This porous structure prevents sweat accumulation and reduces bacterial growth conditions, improving hygiene without compromising the vacuum attachment function
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the permeability parameter of the liner material to allow vapor transmission. By selecting materials with appropriate permeability characteristics, the system enables moisture vapor escape while maintaining structural integrity and vacuum seal, thereby preventing the unhygienic conditions associated with sweat accumulation
3Ease of operation
If vacuum force is applied directly without distribution mechanism, then strong attachment is achieved, but pressure points cause discomfort and potential tissue damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the vacuum force distribution through the skin interface and diffusion pillow structure. Instead of concentrating vacuum force at single points, the design divides the contact surface into multiple areas that distribute the suction force evenly across the residual limb, preventing pressure points while maintaining overall attachment strength
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a diffusion pillow as an intermediary element between the vacuum source and the residual limb. This mediator component distributes the vacuum force uniformly across the contact surface, preventing direct concentration of pressure points while maintaining effective suction attachment
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 solution provides a lightweight, easy-to-use, and hygienic prosthetic socket system that secures the prosthetic device comfortably to the residual limb, reducing the need for cumbersome straps and minimizing bacterial contamination, while allowing for efficient vacuum distribution and comfort through vaporization of perspiration.
Implementation Method 1
an air barb for communication between the interior and the exterior of the socket and for connection to an exterior vacuum source
Implementation Method 2
allowing for efficient vacuum distribution and comfort through vaporization of perspiration
Implementation Method 3
the skin interface is vacuum-permeable
Data Source
AI summary
A removable liner used in conjunction with a socket for a prosthetic device, in which a vacuum is wicked across the entire area of a porous fabric of the liner, is disclosed. The liner preferably includes a shaped-layer made from one of either a silicone or a urethane and has an exterior surface, an interior surface and a passage therein which opens at each of the two surfaces and connects to a valve of the socket. The liner further includes a first porous fabric covering at least a portion of the exterior surface of the shaped-layer including the corresponding opening of the passage, and a second porous fabric covering at least a portion of the interior surface of the shaped-layer including the corresponding opening of the passage. A vacuum source coupled to the liner, via the valve on the socket, draws a vacuum which is wicked across the entire surface of the first and second porous fabrics which interface with the socket and the user's residual limb, respectively. The vacuum secures the socket to the liner and the liner to the residual limb of the user.