Electric Vacuum Pump for Prosthetic Socket Evacuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing prosthetic socket evacuation devices, particularly those using mechanical pumps, are cumbersome, require manual operation, and lack adjustable vacuum control, making them difficult to use for sedentary activities and cosmetically unappealing.
Innovation Solution
An electrically-activated pump system integrated into the prosthetic device, allowing for controlled and adjustable vacuum levels, compact design, and cosmetic integration, enabling easy use and adjustment of vacuum levels without manual effort.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a weight activated pump is used to evacuate the prosthetic socket, then sub atmospheric pressure is maintained during ambulation, but the pump is heavy and cannot be removed even in case of pump failure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the pump from a fixed integrated position and makes it removable. The pump can be taken out of the prosthetic device for replacement or maintenance without removing the entire prosthesis, resolving the contradiction between reliability and weight by allowing selective removal when not needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a dynamic system where the pump can be selectively activated and deactivated based on user needs. The pump transitions from a static always-present component to a dynamic removable component, allowing weight reduction when vacuum maintenance is not required.
2Reliability
If a weight activated pump is used, then vacuum is created during walking, but it requires minimum space between limb and prosthetic foot which may not be available with long residual limbs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the vacuum system into separate components: the pump, the socket, and the liner. This segmentation allows the pump to be positioned externally or in available spaces without requiring continuous space between the limb and foot, accommodating long residual limbs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent moves the pump from an internal position requiring linear space to an external or alternative positioning arrangement. The vacuum function is achieved through dimensional repositioning, allowing the system to work around space constraints in the prosthetic structure.
3Reliability
If a hand-held sub-atmospheric pressure pump is used, then socket evacuation is acceptable, but the individual must carry the pump and it requires dexterity and strength to operate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service system where the prosthetic device itself contains and operates the pump automatically or through simple activation. The user does not need to manually operate a separate pump, eliminating the need for carrying and manual dexterity to operate evacuation equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the pump with the prosthetic device structure, combining the evacuation function with the existing prosthesis. This integration eliminates the need for a separate hand-held pump and simplifies operation to the point where minimal user effort is required.
4Productivity
If a mechanical evacuation pump is used, then vacuum is created during ambulation, but the pump is active only when the user is ambulating and cannot draw vacuum when sedentary
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a dynamic control system where the pump can be activated on demand regardless of user activity level. The system transitions from passive activation during walking to active on-demand activation, allowing vacuum generation during both ambulatory and sedentary activities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback-controlled pump system that responds to user needs rather than just mechanical input from walking. Sensors or user activation triggers the pump based on actual vacuum requirements, enabling operation during sedentary activities when mechanical activation would not occur.
5Reliability
If a mechanical pump system is used, then evacuation function is provided, but the system is bulky and cosmetically unappealing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent nests the pump within the existing prosthetic structure, placing it in hollow spaces or integrating it with existing components. This nesting conceals the pump within the cosmetic shell of the prosthesis, maintaining function while improving appearance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses flexible cosmetic coverings and thin film structures that can accommodate the pump without compromising appearance. The cosmetic shell flexes or conforms around the pump, hiding it from view while allowing the evacuation function to operate.
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 electrically-activated pump system provides easier, more efficient, and adjustable vacuum control, enhancing user comfort and cosmetic integration, addressing the limitations of mechanical pumps by enabling vacuum adjustment and use during sedentary activities.
Implementation Method 1
an electric vacuum pump operative to evacuate the interior of the prosthetic socket
Implementation Method 2
The liner also helps to distribute the sub-atmospheric pressure applied to the user's limb in a more uniform manner
Data Source
AI summary
A prosthetic device and prosthetic assembly operative to evacuate an interior of a prosthetic socket, and control systems for use therewith. The prosthetic device and prosthetic assembly employ evacuation devices for evacuating the socket. The evacuation devices preferably include at least an electrically powered vacuum pump and a power source, and are adapted for mounting to a universal adapter that is installed to the distal end of a prosthetic socket. Associated control systems may be of various design and may employ wired or wireless communication. When wireless communication is employed, a hand held controller may be used to remotely control operation of the evacuation device.