Prosthetic Lock Assembly With Guided Pin Alignment and Vacuum Suspension
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional locking pin-type systems for prosthetic sockets often fail to secure properly, leading to pistoning, premature wear, and difficulty in donning and doffing, especially for elderly or dexterous users.
Innovation Solution
A prosthetic attachment system combining vacuum suspension and mechanical suspension, using a lanyard and strap to secure the prosthetic liner to the socket, with a lock assembly that includes an attachment pin and connector for intuitive alignment and secure locking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional locking pin-type systems are used, then mechanical locking is provided, but incorrect locking occurs and pistoning happens
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment pin features a non-circular cross-section (e.g., oval or rectangular) that corresponds to a matching recess in the lock assembly. This asymmetric geometry provides inherent alignment guidance, allowing the pin to be inserted only in the correct orientation, thereby preventing incorrect locking while maintaining ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
A funnel-shaped alignment guide or tapered leading edge is introduced as an intermediary feature on the attachment pin. This intermediate structure guides the pin into proper alignment with the lock assembly during insertion, reducing the cognitive and dexterity requirements for users while ensuring reliable locking.
2Reliability
If conventional lock assemblies are used, then attachment is possible, but free play causes pistoning and premature wear
Solution Approach 1:
The patent modifies the geometric parameters of the attachment pin and lock interface, including the fit tolerance, contact surface area, and engagement depth. These parameter changes eliminate free play between components, preventing pistoning motion and reducing premature wear, thereby extending component lifespan while maintaining secure connection.
3Reliability
If conventional locking systems are used, then attachment is achieved, but donning and doffing becomes difficult for elderly users
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment pin incorporates a self-aligning mechanism with a tapered leading edge or funnel guide that automatically orients the pin correctly as it approaches the lock assembly. This self-service feature eliminates the need for users to cognitively process alignment requirements or manually adjust positioning, making donning and doffing accessible to elderly users with limited dexterity or eyesight while maintaining secure attachment.
Data Source
AI summary
A prosthetic attachment system and corresponding lock assembly are provided for connecting a distal end of a prosthetic liner to a distal end of a prosthetic socket, by combining vacuum suspension and mechanical suspension. An attachment pin extends from a distal end of the prosthetic liner. A connector assembly secures to a distal end of the prosthetic socket and is adapted for receiving and locking to the attachment pin. A lanyard assembly has a first end secured to the connector assembly and a second end extending outwardly from the distal end of the prosthetic socket and adapted to secure to an exterior surface of the prosthetic socket by an external securing system.