Osseointegration Prosthetic Connector with Locking Pin
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current osseointegration prosthetic connectors for upper extremity implants do not exist, leading to inadequate support and increased risk of skin issues due to uneven load distribution and friction, which affects the quality of life for amputees.
Innovation Solution
A lightweight prosthetic connector with a conical shape and locking pin design, 3D printed from Nylon 11 using Selective Laser Sintering, providing a toggle-free connection and consistent positioning between the implant and prosthesis, specifically designed for upper extremity osseointegration implants.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional socket prosthesis is used, then the prosthesis can be attached to the residual limb, but uneven load distribution causes skin inflammation and ulceration
Solution Approach 1:
The prosthesis system is divided into separate components: an osseointegration implant anchored in the bone, an abutment extending through the skin, and a connector attaching the prosthesis. This segmentation transfers load from the soft tissue socket to the bone-anchored implant, eliminating uneven pressure distribution and skin damage while maintaining prosthesis attachment functionality.
2Ease of operation
If a socket prosthesis is used, then the prosthesis can be connected to the limb, but the closed receiving cavity causes sweating and malodor
Solution Approach 1:
The prosthesis connection interface is extracted from the closed socket cavity and repositioned to the skin surface through the abutment. This allows the connection point to be exposed to air, enabling evaporation of sweat and preventing the buildup of moisture and odors that occur in enclosed socket environments.
3Adaptability or versatility
If no upper extremity-specific connector is used, then general connectors can be applied, but they are too big and heavy for upper extremity implants
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is specifically designed with local quality optimized for upper extremity applications, featuring a compact size and reduced weight appropriate for the smaller scale of upper limb implants compared to lower extremity connectors, while maintaining compatibility with the abutment interface.
4Device complexity
If a prosthetic connector is not used, then the implant can be directly attached to the prosthesis, but excessive loads can damage the implant
Solution Approach 1:
The connector serves as an intermediary component between the abutment and prosthesis, providing a protective interface that absorbs and distributes excessive loads, preventing direct transmission of damaging forces to the implant while maintaining a relatively simple attachment procedure.
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 prosthetic connector ensures secure attachment, reduces vibrations and impact, and allows for easy attachment and removal of prostheses without changing the implant connector, enhancing the stability and comfort of upper extremity prosthetics.
Implementation Method 1
3D printed from Nylon 11 using Selective Laser Sintering
Data Source
AI summary
A connection device for connecting an implant anchored in bone with an external prosthesis component, such as a limb prosthesis, prosthetic elbow or finger, includes a main housing, having a first attachment connector portion for attachment to the implant system and a second attachment portion for attachment to the prosthesis component. The device further includes a safety mechanism to protect the implant system from high mechanical forces, including rotational forces or bending forces. The safety mechanism includes a rotational force release mechanism with a first component including a ring unit having an inner surface with at least one depression and a second component including at least one raised unit urged into contact with the recession by a fitting.