Threadless Prosthetic Valve Assembly with Latch Arms
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing check valves for prosthetic sockets require high dexterity for proper installation and removal, posing challenges for individuals with limited hand function due to fine thread alignment and friction issues, making it difficult to maintain airtight seals and adjust limb suspension.
Innovation Solution
A threadless valve assembly with a latched or magnetic coupling system, featuring overlapping flange surfaces, resiliently biased stem pieces, and pivotable latch arms for easy insertion and removal, along with O-ring seals and adjustable pressure settings for secure and flexible operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If threaded valve insert is used with fine pitch threads, then airtight seal is achieved, but installation and removal require high dexterity and hand-eye coordination
Solution Approach 1:
The valve assembly is divided into separate components: a valve base that remains in the prosthetic socket and a removable valve insert. This segmentation allows the insert to be easily detached and reattached without requiring threading operations, thereby maintaining the airtight seal while significantly improving ease of installation and removal for users with limited hand dexterity.
Solution Approach 2:
The traditional threaded mechanical connection is replaced with a simplified insertion system where the valve insert is pushed into the valve base until it engages with a stop or retaining feature. This substitution eliminates the need for precise thread alignment and manual tightening, making the operation feasible for individuals with involved upper extremities.
2Reliability
If valve insert is tightly screwed in, then seal quality is improved, but friction increases making removal extremely difficult
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the valve into a base and an insert that connects via simple insertion rather than threading, the system eliminates the friction problem associated with tight screwing. The insert achieves adequate sealing through its design features (such as O-rings or gaskets) without requiring high insertion forces that would make removal impossible.
3Strength
If threaded connection is used, then secure retention is achieved, but alignment precision is required during installation
Solution Approach 1:
The valve base and insert are designed as separate components with complementary geometries that guide proper alignment during insertion. The insert typically features a tapered or guided entry that automatically aligns with the base, eliminating the need for precise manual thread alignment while still achieving secure retention through features such as retaining rings, snap-fit mechanisms, or friction interference.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve insert and base are designed with pre-aligned features such as guide ribs, tapered entries, or keyed interfaces that automatically position the components correctly during insertion. This preliminary alignment design eliminates the need for manual thread matching and ensures proper orientation before the final securing action.
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
Facilitates easy and secure mounting and removal of the valve insert, reducing friction and dexterity demands, allowing individuals with limited hand function to self-adjust prosthetic limbs effectively without tools, while maintaining airtight seals and adjustable pressure settings.
Implementation Method 1
a threadless base supports an insert via O'rings and a magnetic coupling
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
A valve assembly having a threadless base and a removable threadless insert that separately contains a check valve piece. The check valve piece is resiliently supported to abut a seal fitted to the insert. In one assembly, a pair of resiliently biased latch arms restrain the insert to the base. Flanges at the latch arms are resiliently biased to flex and grip the base as the insert is pushed into the base. Insert removal is effected with the release and lifting of the latch arms. In another assembly, the insert is magnetically coupled to the base and a resiliently biased check valve piece and setscrew adjuster regulates flow pressure.