Segmented Residuum Device for Volume Fluctuation Accommodation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current devices for post-amputation residuum management fail to accommodate volume fluctuations effectively, leading to inadequate stabilization and discomfort due to their rigid design.

Innovation Solution

A device comprising a posterior shell with longitudinal slits and a multidurometer, soft pre-tibial shell that allows for flexible accommodation of limb volume and diameter changes, along with an inner and outer foam layer for enhanced comfort and protection.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a continuous piece of plastic is used to form the posterior and anterior portions, then the device provides structural support, but it cannot accommodate variances in volume at the distal end

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaccommodation of volume fluctuationsVSAvoidstructural support

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The device is divided into multiple components: a posterior shell, an anterior shell, and a distal cap, which can move independently relative to each other. This segmentation allows each component to maintain structural integrity while accommodating volume changes through relative movement between segments.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The device transitions from a static continuous structure to a dynamic segmented structure where the anterior shell, posterior shell, and distal cap can move relative to one another. This dynamic configuration enables the device to adapt to volume fluctuations while maintaining overall structural support.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Stability of the object's composition

If a rigid device is used to stabilize the residuum, then structural support is provided, but comfort and flexibility are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestabilization of residuumVSAvoidcomfort and flexibility

Core Design Contradiction:

Stability of the object's compositionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

Different portions of the device have different mechanical properties - the posterior shell and anterior shell provide rigid structural support, while the distal cap and the interfaces between components allow for flexibility and movement. This local differentiation of stiffness provides both stabilization and comfort.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The device incorporates flexible elements including the distal cap that can move independently, and the interfaces between shells that allow relative motion. These flexible components accommodate volume changes and improve comfort while the main shells provide structural support.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

3Adaptability or versatility

If the anterior and posterior portions are attached continuously, then structural integrity is maintained, but volume variances cannot be accommodated

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaccommodation of volume fluctuationsVSAvoidstructural integrity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The continuous structure is segmented into discrete components (posterior shell, anterior shell, distal cap) connected through controlled interfaces. This segmentation maintains structural integrity through proper connection mechanisms while enabling volume accommodation through relative movement of segments.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The interfaces between the posterior shell, anterior shell, and distal cap act as intermediaries that transmit forces while allowing controlled movement. These intermediary connections maintain structural integrity while accommodating volume fluctuations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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 stabilizes the residuum, accommodating volume fluctuations while preserving knee range of motion, providing comfort and protection through its adjustable and flexible design.

Implementation Method 1

a posterior shell having longitudinal slits formed therein... The residuum device provides for a limb volume and diameter variance accommodation via the floating pre-tibial shell and the flexible posterior shell

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

an inner foam layer comprising a soft material; and an outer foam layer comprising a rigid material

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectCompression: Compression

Data Source

PatentUS8679193B2Amputation residuum device and method of using the same

Publication Date: 2014.03.25 PANDO INNOVATIONS

AI summary

An apparatus and method for post amputation residuum maintenance and for preserving motion of the knee are provided. The apparatus includes an elongated shell having a longitudinal axis and defining a hollow interior closed at a distal end, the shell having an opening extending from a proximal end and adapted to receive a residuum into the interior of the shell, and a longitudinal slit having a circular aperture at each end.