Interchangeable Prosthetic Socket Pump-Lock With Universal Cavity

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing prosthetic sockets are typically constructed to accommodate either a mechanical lock or a vacuum pump, requiring separate manufacturing processes and cannot be easily switched between the two, leading to inefficiencies and potential patient discomfort or health risks if compatibility issues arise.

Innovation Solution

A universally shaped securing device that can be interchangeable between a mechanical lock and a vacuum pump, allowing a single socket construction to accommodate either mechanism, with similar geometric dimensions and a construction dummy for easy switching.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If a prosthetic socket is constructed to accommodate a mechanical lock, then the manufacturing process is simpler and more cost-effective, but the socket cannot be easily switched to a vacuum pump if compatibility issues arise

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesocket manufacturing simplicityVSAvoidsecuring device interchangeability

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a universal socket design with a standardized cavity that can accommodate both mechanical locks and vacuum pumps. The cavity is dimensioned and shaped to receive either securing device type, allowing the same socket to serve multiple functions and be compatible with different securing mechanisms without requiring separate manufacturing processes for each device type.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent separates the socket into distinct functional components: the socket body with a standardized cavity and the removable securing device (mechanical lock or vacuum pump). This segmentation allows the securing device to be independently replaced or interchanged while the socket remains unchanged, enabling versatility without complicating the overall manufacturing process.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If a prosthetic socket is constructed to accommodate a vacuum pump, then multiple securing options are available, but the manufacturing process becomes more complex and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesecuring device optionsVSAvoidsocket manufacturing complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a universal cavity design that inherently supports both vacuum pumps and mechanical locks through standardized dimensions and geometric features. This approach enables the socket to accommodate multiple securing device options without requiring complex manufacturing processes, as the same cavity structure serves multiple purposes.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Reliability

If different socket constructions are used for mechanical locks and vacuum pumps, then each securing device can be optimized, but the need for socket rebuilding increases if compatibility issues arise

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesecuring device performanceVSAvoidsocket rebuilding time

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces dynamic interchangeability by designing the socket with a permanent standardized cavity that can receptively accommodate different securing devices as needed. This allows the system to adapt dynamically to compatibility requirements without requiring physical reconstruction of the socket, reducing downtime and enabling quick switching between mechanical locks and vacuum pumps based on performance needs.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

4Adaptability or versatility

If a standardized cavity design is used for both mechanical locks and vacuum pumps, then interchangeability is enabled, but the optimization for each specific device type is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedevice interchangeabilityVSAvoiddevice-specific optimization

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by creating a standardized cavity with specific geometric features that are optimized for receiving both device types. The cavity includes localized features such as threaded inserts, sealing surfaces, and dimensional tolerances that are specifically designed to accommodate the mounting requirements of both mechanical locks and vacuum pumps, enabling interchangeability without sacrificing device-specific performance.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Data Source

PatentUS12433772B2Interchangeable pump-lock for prosthetic socket and method of use

Publication Date: 2025.10.07 ALPS SOUTH EURO

AI summary

An interchangeable lock-pump prosthetic system that includes a universal dummy, vacuum pump, and mechanical lock. Each of the three objects have similar geometries for the purpose of fitting into a prosthetic, whereupon a user may for instance, swap the vacuum pump with the lock, depending on the needs of the user and without changing to a separate prosthetic. The universal dummy is an inactive component and acts as a placeholder during manufacturing of the socket, for the eventual inclusion of the vacuum pump or mechanical lock. The vacuum pump is a pressure dependent object that acts to remove any residual air between the socket and the elastomeric liner. The lock takes advantage of a mechanical locking pin which receives a properly configured liner, thus securing the user within the prosthetic socket. An alternative embodiment of the present invention includes use of an overmolded threaded insert which rotatably engages with a male threaded piece having a central cavity for receiving either the vacuum pump or the mechanical lock described herein.