Prosthetic Attachment Strap for Suction Sleeve Security
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing attachment methods for suction sleeves in trans-tibial prosthetics, such as pressure-sensitive tape, result in an unsightly profile, bunching, and adhesive residue, and are not secure or easy to apply, leading to shifting during use.
Innovation Solution
A low-profile attachment strap with hook-and-loop fasteners, comprising two straps with inwardly disposed hook material and woven outer fabric, secured by a closed loop buckle, which wraps around the sleeve and socket to provide a secure, flush, and adjustable attachment without adhesives.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If pressure-sensitive tape is used to attach the suction sleeve, then the sleeve can be secured to the prosthetic socket, but the tape causes bunching of the sleeve, creates an unsightly profile, and leaves adhesive residue
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment system is divided into separate functional components: a smooth attachment strap that contacts the sleeve, and a separate fastening mechanism (buckle with hook-and-loop straps) that secures the attachment. This segmentation allows the attachment interface to remain smooth while the fastening function is handled by discrete elements that do not contact the sleeve surface.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment strap acts as an intermediary element between the suction sleeve and the fastening mechanism. It provides a smooth interface with the sleeve while transferring the securing force to the buckle system, thereby preventing direct contact between the sleeve and the bunching-causing tape or fasteners.
2Reliability
If pressure-sensitive tape is used to attach the suction sleeve, then the sleeve can be secured to the prosthetic socket, but the tape shifts around during the day and is difficult to apply
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment strap is pre-formed with a buckle and integrated hook-and-loop fastening straps, eliminating the need for users to manually apply and position separate adhesive tapes. The entire attachment mechanism is pre-assembled in its functional configuration, requiring only wrapping and fastening actions from the user.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment system incorporates adjustable elements including the buckle mechanism and hook-and-loop fasteners that allow for dynamic adjustment during application and use. This enables users to achieve optimal fit and security regardless of limb volume changes or positioning requirements throughout the day.
3Reliability
If adhesive tape is used to attach the suction sleeve, then the sleeve can be secured to the prosthetic socket, but the adhesive residue stains clothing
Solution Approach 1:
The adhesive function is completely extracted from the attachment system. Instead of using adhesive-based tape, the invention employs mechanical fastening through the buckle and hook-and-loop straps, eliminating the source of adhesive residue and its harmful staining effect on clothing.
4Reliability
If a secure attachment method is used to prevent shifting, then the sleeve attachment reliability improves, but the attachment complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple fastening functions are merged into a single integrated attachment strap assembly. The buckle, hook-and-loop fasteners, and attachment strap work together as one unified component that provides secure attachment without requiring multiple separate elements or complex assembly procedures.
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 strap ensures a secure, shift-resistant, and aesthetically pleasing attachment of the suction sleeve, eliminating bunching and adhesive residue, while being easy to apply and user-adjustable, maintaining suction and comfort throughout the day.
Implementation Method 1
A first strap (12) is passed through a closed loop buckle (20)... The inside of the first strap (12) is equipped with inwardly disposed hook material (24)... The outside of both straps (12, 14) are equipped with loop material (22, 28)... whereupon it binds to the cloth (or loop) exterior (22) of the first strap (12)
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
A secure anchoring strap over a prosthetic socket for securing a sleeve. The anchoring strap generally comprises a first strap attached at one end to one side of a closed loop buckle. The first strap laden with hook-attachments compnses a woven inner outer material fabnic or loop material. A second strap Is attached at one end to another side of the closed loop buckle, the second strap comprising a laden with hook-attachments and a woven Inner outer material fabric or loop material. A user simply wraps the attachment strap around a margin of their sleeve overlying their prosthetic socket, and passes the free end of the first strap back through the closed loop buckle. They pull the opposing free ends of the straps taught, and secure the inner hook-material of the respective straps to the opposing woven fabric beneath, thereby securing the strap tightly in a flush configuration.