Transfemoral Socket Using Compliant Members for Limb Volume Adaptation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional prosthetic socket interfaces are inadequate in accommodating limb volume changes, leading to discomfort, skin issues, and reduced biomechanical efficiency due to their static design and use of rigid materials, which fail to provide a comfortable and breathable environment for amputees.
Innovation Solution
The Compliant Force Distribution socket interface design utilizes compliant materials and modular, adjustable elements to accommodate dynamic body changes, providing a breathable and comfortable fit by distributing forces more evenly and allowing for real-time adjustments, thereby reducing perceived weight and enhancing biomechanical connectivity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If conventional rigid socket interfaces are used, then structural support is provided, but comfort and adaptability to limb volume changes deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The socket interface transitions from a static rigid structure to a dynamic system with adjustable elements. The modular design allows real-time adjustment of compression forces and interface geometry to adapt to changing limb volume, while maintaining structural support through the rigid frame structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The socket interface allows changing physical parameters such as compression force, interface shape, and material compliance through modular components and adjustable mechanisms. This enables the same socket to adapt to different limb volumes and conditions without compromising structural integrity.
2Duration of action of stationary object
If rigid materials are used in socket interfaces, then durability is improved, but comfort and skin environment deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The socket interface employs different material properties in different regions: rigid materials in load-bearing areas for durability, and compliant/soft materials in contact areas for comfort and skin health. This localized differentiation allows the system to simultaneously achieve durability and comfort.
Solution Approach 2:
The socket interface combines multiple materials with different properties (rigid structural materials, compliant foam, breathable fabrics) into a composite system. This allows the integration of contradictory requirements: structural strength from rigid materials and comfort from compliant materials.
3Stability of the object's composition
If tight-fitting socket design is used, then control and stability are improved, but skin friction and shear forces worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The socket interface uses dynamic adjustment mechanisms that allow the compression force to be optimized in real-time. This enables maintaining sufficient control and stability while reducing excessive compression that causes skin friction and shear forces.
Solution Approach 2:
The interface allows changing compression parameters and contact pressure distribution to find the optimal balance between stability and skin comfort. Adjustable elements enable modification of force distribution to reduce harmful shear forces while maintaining necessary control.
4Force
If conventional socket interfaces are used, then suspension is provided, but weight and breathability worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The socket interface is divided into modular segments that can be independently adjusted or removed. This segmentation allows reducing weight by using only necessary components while maintaining suspension force through strategic placement of rigid structural elements.
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 design significantly reduces skin issues, improves comfort and control, and enhances the biomechanical efficiency of prosthetic devices by accommodating volume changes and providing a more secure connection between the user and the prosthetic, leading to improved ambulation and proprioception.
Implementation Method 1
a compliant member connecting the medial segment to the lateral segment
Data Source
AI summary
A transfemoral prosthetic level socket system for a user's lower limb comprising modular socket components fitted to the individual user's residual limb having a mounting point for an attachment, at least one compliant member attached to at least one stabilizing unit, and at least one second compliant member attached to at least one stabilizing unit wherein the first compliant member and the second compliant member work in cooperation with the stabilizing unit(s) to control bone position and support the limb within the interface.