Overload Safety Mechanism for Bone-Anchored Prostheses
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Solution Overview
Problem
Transfemoral amputees using bone-anchored prostheses face risks of bone fracture and implant loosening due to overloading, particularly during activities like falls, which existing direct skeletal attachment methods fail to adequately address.
Innovation Solution
An overload device with a ball and socket mechanism held by a clamp, featuring a solenoid and rubber bumper, which quickly releases to divert overload forces from the bone and implant, providing compliance and preventing injury.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If direct skeletal attachment is used to eliminate sockets and improve comfort, then skin-related complications are avoided and proprioception is improved, but the risk of bone fracture and implant loosening due to overloading increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a safety overload mechanism that includes a latch and compliance component positioned between the implant and prosthetic limb. This mechanism is designed to release and absorb excessive forces before they can reach the bone-implant interface, thereby preventing bone fracture and implant loosening while maintaining the benefits of direct skeletal attachment
2Stability of the object's composition
If a rigid connection is used between implant and prosthesis, then control and stability are improved, but the risk of injury during overload events increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic compliance component that changes the mechanical properties of the connection between the implant and prosthesis based on loading conditions. During normal use, the connection remains rigid for stability and control. During overload events, the compliance component activates to provide flexibility and absorb excessive forces, thereby preventing injury while maintaining stability during regular operation
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 device effectively protects the osseointegrated implant system and bone from overloading, allowing users to maintain balance and reduce the risk of falls and related injuries by changing compliance from rigid to flexible during overload events.
Implementation Method 1
a solenoid and rubber bumper, which quickly releases to divert overload forces from the bone and implant
Implementation Method 2
a solenoid and rubber bumper, which quickly releases to divert overload forces from the bone and implant, providing compliance and preventing injury
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are disclosed for prosthetic devices. In one embodiment, an apparatus comprises a first section attachable to an abutment screw of a percutaneous implant; a second section attachable to a prosthetic limb; a latch for coupling the first section with the second section, the latch releasable in response to an overload on the prosthetic limb. A compliance component may be positioned between the first section and the second section, such that when the latch releases in response to the overload, the compliance component provides a tension between the first section and the second section.