Prosthetic Socket Durability Test System

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Solution Overview

Problem

There is a lack of effective durability testing systems for prosthetic sockets, particularly for simulating repetitive loading patterns like walking, which is crucial for assessing the safety and longevity of 3D printed prosthetic sockets.

Innovation Solution

A durability test system that includes a base, a load cell, coupling mechanisms, a motor-driven rod system, and a slotted link mechanism to simulate walking, jumping, or running patterns, allowing for controlled cyclic loading of prosthetic sockets.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of time

If 3D printing is used to fabricate prosthetic sockets rapidly, then the time to initial fitting is reduced and customization is improved, but the durability and safety for daily use remain unknown

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetime to initial fittingVSAvoiddurability for daily use
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of timeVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by conducting durability testing on 3D printed prosthetic sockets before they are used in clinical practice. The testing protocol subjects the sockets to repetitive loading cycles that simulate walking, running, and other daily activities to assess their structural integrity and identify potential failure modes prior to clinical deployment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an intermediary testing system that acts as a mediator between the 3D printing process and clinical application. This testing apparatus includes loading mechanisms, sensors, and control systems that evaluate the mechanical properties of printed sockets under controlled conditions, providing data that bridges the gap between rapid fabrication and real-world performance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If durability testing is conducted to assess safety, then reliability is improved, but the complexity of the testing system increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesafety assessmentVSAvoidtesting system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies segmentation by dividing the durability testing system into distinct functional modules: a base structure, a loading mechanism, a sensor system, and a control unit. Each module performs a specific function and can be independently configured or replaced, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining comprehensive testing capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs dynamics by implementing adjustable loading parameters including variable magnitude, frequency, and direction of applied forces. The testing system can dynamically modify these parameters to simulate different activity levels and loading patterns, allowing a single apparatus to assess durability across multiple scenarios without requiring multiple specialized tests.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Reliability

If repetitive loading is applied to simulate daily activities, then the assessment of durability is improved, but the energy consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedurability assessmentVSAvoidenergy consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies periodic action by implementing cyclic loading protocols that replicate the repetitive nature of daily activities. The testing system applies loads in periodic cycles corresponding to walking, running, or other activities, allowing efficient assessment of durability through repeated stress cycles rather than continuous or random loading.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs parameter changes by systematically varying loading parameters such as magnitude, frequency, and duration to optimize the balance between assessment quality and energy consumption. The testing protocol can adjust these parameters based on the specific socket design, material properties, and the level of durability assessment required, minimizing unnecessary energy expenditure while maintaining valid results.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS12279979B2Durability test system for repetitive loading of a prosthetic socket
Publication Date: 2025.04.22 ROSALIND FRANKLIN UNIVERSITY OF MEDICINE AND SCIENCE
  • US12279979B2 patent drawing
  • US12279979B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present disclosure relates to a system for repetitive loading of a prosthetic socket to test the durability of the prosthetic socket. The system includes a base and a load cell coupled to the base. The system further includes a first coupling mechanism positioned vertically above the load cell, and a second coupling mechanism positioned vertically above the first coupling mechanism. The first coupling mechanism is configured to be removably coupled to a first end of the prosthetic socket, and the second coupling mechanism is configured to be removably coupled to a second end of the prosthetic socket. The system further includes a rod having a first end and a second end opposite the first end. The first end of the rod is coupled to the second coupling mechanism. The system further includes a motor coupled to the second end of the rod, a support structure extending vertically from the base, and an actuator coupled to the support structure such that the actuator is positioned vertically above the second coupling mechanism. The system further includes a curved rail coupled to the actuator and positioned between the actuator and the second coupling mechanism. The curved rail is configured to contact the second coupling mechanism along an arc defined by the curved rail such that the second coupling mechanism moves along the arc when the motor moves the rod.