Suspended sleeve assembly comprising a compression sleeve and a suspension stand
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Solution Overview
Problem
The current methods for fitting prosthetic sockets to amputated limbs are time-consuming, wasteful, and often result in an imprecise fit, requiring multiple visits and causing discomfort, as they typically involve traditional casting or molding techniques that do not account for weight-bearing positions and require manual adjustment by skilled practitioners.
Innovation Solution
A suspended sleeve assembly comprising a compression sleeve and a suspension stand that allows patients to wear prosthetic sockets while standing, applying gravitational pressure to simulate weight-bearing conditions, enabling precise shaping and fitting by circumferential compression, which aids in achieving a comfortable and accurate fit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If traditional casting or molding techniques are used to fit prosthetic sockets, then the process can be completed with basic equipment, but the fitting precision is poor and multiple adjustments are required
Solution Approach 1:
The compression sleeve is pre-formed with a suspension stand attachment mechanism, allowing it to be suspended before the molding process begins. This preliminary setup enables weight-bearing simulation during molding, improving fitting precision without requiring multiple adjustment visits later
Solution Approach 2:
The compression sleeve acts as an intermediary device between the patient's limb and the prosthetic socket. It provides circumferential compression and supports weight-bearing simulation during the molding process, enabling precise fitting without requiring repeated adjustments
2Manufacturing precision
If traditional non-weight-bearing molding is used, then the process is simpler and faster, but the fit precision deteriorates because it does not account for weight-bearing conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The suspension stand enables the compression sleeve to support the patient's weight automatically during the molding process. The system self-adjusts to weight-bearing conditions without requiring complex external support equipment, achieving precise fitting under realistic loading conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The invention adds the dimension of vertical weight-bearing support to the traditional horizontal molding process. By suspending the compression sleeve vertically from the stand, the system enables gravity-assisted molding that accounts for weight-bearing conditions without significantly increasing procedural complexity
3Manufacturing precision
If multiple test sockets are made to achieve proper fit, then the precision of the final fit improves, but material waste and processing time increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The compression sleeve with suspension stand performs preliminary shaping and fitting adjustments during the initial molding process. This preliminary action reduces the need for subsequent test sockets, minimizing material waste while achieving accurate fit
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces the traditional trial-and-error mechanical adjustment process with a gravity-based suspension system. The suspension stand uses gravitational force to automatically apply appropriate compression during molding, reducing the need for multiple test sockets and manual adjustments
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
This solution reduces the need for multiple fittings, minimizes waste, and enhances the precision and comfort of prosthetic socket fitting by allowing weight-bearing simulations during the molding process, thereby reducing the time and effort required for achieving a proper fit.
Implementation Method 1
The compression sleeve is configured to enclose at least a portion of a prosthetic socket worn by a patient... allowing circumferential pressure over the plaster cast or on-body molded socket can aid in precise forming and shaping
Implementation Method 2
allows patients to wear prosthetic sockets while standing, applying gravitational pressure to simulate weight-bearing conditions
Data Source
AI summary
A suspended sleeve assembly includes a suspension stand and a compression sleeve. An upper portion of the compression sleeve is attached onto the suspension stand, but a lower portion of the compression sleeve is unattached from the suspension stand. The suspended sleeve assembly can also include a support stand. The suspended sleeve assembly can be used to shape a prosthetic socket. The compression sleeve applies a circumferential pressure onto the prosthetic socket as the prosthetic socket is being inserted into the compression sleeve as a patient steps into the compression sleeve and applies at least a portion of body weight to the compression sleeve. The prosthetic socket can be heated and shaped by hand, so that it fits the residual limb of the patient. The suspended sleeve assembly can also be used to shape other prosthetic components, such as a negative plaster cast.