Class / Patent application number | Description | Number of patent applications / Date published |
623034000 | Suction type | 75 |
20080243266 | PROSTHETIC DEVICE UTILIZING ELECTRIC VACUUM PUMP - Prosthetic devices having vacuum components operative to evacuate the interior of a prosthetic socket thereof, and control systems for use therewith. The evacuation devices preferably include at least an electrically powered vacuum pump and associated power source, and a vacuum accumulator connected to the vacuum pump. Associated control systems may be of various designs and may employ wired or wireless communication. Control of an evacuation device may be based on vacuum level, residual limb volume, residual limb motion, user activity level or other device parameters. | 10-02-2008 |
20080288087 | Releasible Attachment System For a Prosthetic Limb - A releasable attachment system is provided for use with a bone anchored post and related external prosthesis such as a prosthetic limb or the like, wherein the attachment system includes a safety release mechanism designed to release or break away when encountering an excess mechanical load. The bone anchored mounting post is implanted for direct affixation to patient bone, and carries or is connected to a fixator structure protruding through soft skin tissue and the like at the end or stump of an amputated limb for mechanical connection to the external prosthesis. The safety release mechanism accommodates substantially normal patient movement throughout a corresponding range of substantially normal mechanical loads, but releases in the presence of an excess load to prevent undesirable fracture failures. | 11-20-2008 |
20090036998 | VACUUM PUMP - The present invention in one embodiment is a vacuum pump including a compressible elastomeric member with an internal reservoir enclosing a volume of fluid, an outlet port providing fluid communication between the internal reservoir and a fluid sink, and an inlet port providing fluid communication between the internal reservoir and a fluid source. The pump further includes first and second pressure elements coupled to the elastomeric member on opposing sides. At least one of the first and second pressure elements is adapted to apply a longitudinal force along, and a rotational force about, an axis extending through the compressible elastomeric member. Upon the application of a longitudinal compression force to the compressible elastomeric member, fluid flows from the internal reservoir to the fluid sink and upon the application of a longitudinal expansion force, fluid flows from the fluid source to the internal reservoir. Upon the application of a rotational force, the elastomeric member exerts a counter-rotational force. | 02-05-2009 |
20090076625 | REINFORCED PROSTHETIC SUSPENSION SLEEVE - A prosthetic suspension sleeve having reinforcement that prevents or minimizes damage to the suspension sleeve, particularly as a result of abrasion, puncture, or an impact with another object during use. The reinforcement may be selectively located along one or more interior, exterior, or interior and exterior areas of a suspension sleeve. The reinforcement material may be comprised of one or more materials that preferably exhibit resistance to cuts, tears, punctures and/or other damage. In an alternative embodiment, reinforcement may be provided by mixing one or more reinforcing materials into the polymeric material of the suspension sleeve. Combinations of different reinforcement types may be employed. | 03-19-2009 |
20090143868 | VACUUM BASED IMPRESSION AND ALIGNMENT DEVICE AND METHOD - A malleable bag connected to a one-way valve can be used to provide a prosthesis with an accurate impression of a residual limb and to perfect accurate static and dynamic alignment of the prosthesis on a patient. Methods and systems allow to rapidly and accurately capture an impression of a residual limb, including soft tissue compression due to the weight of the patient. | 06-04-2009 |
20090157196 | Prosthetic vacuum system - An improved prosthetic device with a vacuum system for maintaining a negative pressure seal between the socket and the residual limb. The vacuum system includes a vacuum surge chamber which maintains seal vacuum and increases the time between recharging a Li ion battery, allowing the battery to be recharged-up to 500 times. The system is small, lightweight, and concealable within the prosthetic device so that it neither impedes use of the device nor detracts from a cosmetically accurate limb. | 06-18-2009 |
20090281637 | VACUUM ATTACHMENT SYSTEM - A vacuum socket system pertaining to the field of prosthetics wherein an enhanced suspension mechanism is provided by incorporating a vacuum source, circuitry, and a power source. A virtually air-tight seal between residual limb and prosthesis allows a vacuum fit to be generated via a vacuum source. The vacuum source is in constant interaction with circuitry and software for a means of vacuum pressure control, data recordation, and other means. A sound dampening method is employed to lessen both the sound and vibration generated from the vacuum source. | 11-12-2009 |
20090306791 | ELEVATED VACUUM LOCKING SYSTEM - An elevated vacuum locking system for prosthetic limb. An exemplary embodiment may include a plunger pin mounted to a flexible liner and including a through passage between a location proximate the exterior of the liner and a distal end of the plunger pin; a locking mechanism mounted within the distal end of a socket; a manifold mounted to the exterior of the distal end of the socket and including a cavity adapted to receive the distal end of the plunger pin when the patient's residual limb and the liner are installed into the socket, the manifold including a through passage connecting an interior of the cavity to an exterior fitting; and a vacuum pump operative to withdraw air from the interior of the socket via the through passage of the plunger pin, the cavity, and the through passage of the manifold. | 12-10-2009 |
20100070051 | PROSTHESIS SHAFT WITH ACTIVE AIR RELEASE - The invention relates to a cup-shaped prosthesis shaft consisting of an air-tight and essentially rigid material comprising a sealing means for protecting against the entry of air from the proximal open side, said shaft being used in prostheses for replacing limbs. The inside of the shaft is provided with at least one pump device such that relative movements between the stump and the shaft during the use of the prosthesis pump air out of the inside of the prosthesis shaft via flow channels and monoway valves to the outside of the prosthesis shaft. The pump action is obtained by varying the volume of a compartment formed from flexible or elastic films, said compartment being arranged adjacently to the strump in the main extension thereof. The compartment is either fixed to the inner wall of a rigid prosthesis shaft, or built into the wall of a flexible and elastic removable stump coating which is arranged, as part of the prosthesis shaft, between the stump and a rigid frame. | 03-18-2010 |
20100087931 | Apparatus and Methods for Facilitating Prosthesis Donning, Doffing, Retention, and Fit - Apparatus and methods for improved prosthesis donning, doffing, retention, and fit. A valve located in a prosthetic socket port includes a body, a core, a spring located partially within the core, a diaphragm, and a maintained operator. The operator includes a recess and a protrusion. The operator may be indexed to a displacement or vent position. When the operator is indexed to the displacement position, a tip of the core is pressed against the recess via the spring, and the diaphragm displaces any air that enters into the prosthetic socket when a load is applied to the residual limb. When the operator is laterally actuated, it is indexed to the vent position and the core tip moves from the recess to the protrusion. In this position, the diaphragm opens the socket cavity to the external atmosphere via valve vents, thereby facilitating prosthesis donning and doffing. | 04-08-2010 |
20100094432 | Mounting plate system, vacuum reservoir plate and electronic pump system for prosthetic socket and related methods - The mounting plate system is for use with a prosthetic socket, the socket having at least one aperture in a distal end thereof and in fluid communication with an interior portion of the socket which receives a residual limb. The mounting plate system includes a mounting plate having a top face to interface with the socket, and a bottom face for attachment to lower portions of a prosthetic limb. An opening in the mounting plate extends from the top face to the bottom face thereof, and a valve housing is positioned in the opening and has a channel therein for fluid communication with the interior portion of the socket via the at least one aperture. A one-way expulsion valve is secured between the valve housing and the socket adjacent the aperture and for regulating fluid communication between the interior portion of the socket and the channel in the valve housing. A vacuum reservoir seal plate is also provided. | 04-15-2010 |
20100125342 | NEGATIVE GAUGE PRESSURE MOISTURE MANAGEMENT AND SECURE ADHERENCE ARTIFICIAL LIMB SYSTEM AND ASSOCIATED METHODS - The negative gauge pressure moisture management and secure adherence artificial limb system is to be attached to a residual limb of an amputee. The artificial limb system includes a negative gauge pressure airflow liner, a surface area multiplying textile layer with a proximal airflow seal to surround at least a portion of the residual limb and define a regulated negative gauge pressure environment between the residual limb and the negative gauge pressure liner. The liner has a plurality of airflow passageways defining inflow air channels and an outflow air channel in fluid communication with the defined regulated negative gauge pressure environment. An airflow control system is connected inline with the outflow and inflow air channels. The airflow control system includes an airflow regulation device and an airflow initiating device. | 05-20-2010 |
20100185300 | Expulsion liner for prosthetic or orthotic devices and associated methods - The expulsion liner is for use with a prosthetic device to be secured to a residual limb. The expulsion liner includes an elongated elastomeric tube having a closed distal end and an open proximal end, and defining an interior space configured to receive the residual limb. A one-way valve is positioned within the closed distal end and provides controlled fluid communication between the interior space and an external environment. The one-way valve may be configured to allow the weight of a user, via the residual limb, to expel moisture and air from the interior space out to the external environment. | 07-22-2010 |
20110022182 | VALVE SYSTEM FOR PROSTHETICS - A valve system may attach to the distal area of a prosthetic hard socket without leaks, in spite of the high amount of curvature of the distal area. The valve stem/member of the valve system slides to, or rests in, a closed position that seals against a valve housing surface. The valve is adapted for a low “crack” or “pop” pressure, for example, when the pressure inside the distal region of the socket well is 1-3 psi above the air pressure outside the hard socket. An elastomeric valve member is preferably used that exhibits a very accurate and reproducible response at the low crack pressure, and, in addition, sound dampening and/or filtration pads may be used to further reduce sound and fouling of the preferred elastomeric valve member. The preferred valve gives repeated, consistent, and quiet performance, which helps prevent uncomfortable and/or high-noise-producing swings in the pressure inside the socket well. Preferably no portion of the valve system extends so far through the wall of the socket that it resides inside the socket well, and no part of the valve needs to be installed from inside the socket. The valve may be installed even on thin-walled sockets, as the broad base of the valve is adhesively attached to the outside of the socket, and optionally a rearward protrusion extends into the hole in the socket without protruding into the socket well. | 01-27-2011 |
20110022183 | ELEVATED VACUUM LOCKING SYSTEM - Elevated vacuum locking systems for prosthetic limbs are disclosed. Some example embodiments may include a manifold mounted to the exterior of the distal end of a socket and may include a cavity adapted to receive a distal end of a plunger pin when the patient's residual limb and a liner are installed into the socket. Some example manifolds may include a through passage fluidicly connecting an interior of the cavity to a fitting mounted on an exterior of the manifold and/or a spool valve arranged to selectively vent the cavity to atmosphere via the through passage and a vent hole. The spool valve may be axially slidable between an open position and a shut position within a channel integrally formed with the manifold. | 01-27-2011 |
20110035027 | Vacuum-Assisted Liner System - A vacuum-assisted liner system for the socket of a limb prosthesis secures the prosthesis to a residual body portion. A vacuum is created directly between the residual body portion and the socket ( | 02-10-2011 |
20110046748 | PUMP SYSTEM FOR PROSTHESIS - A vacuum pump system for a prosthesis includes an enhanced suspension mechanism and incorporates a vacuum pump system, an adaptor assembly, circuitry, and a power source. A virtually air-tight seal between a residual limb and a socket of the prosthesis allows a vacuum fit to be generated by the pump system. The pump system may be controlled with various circuits and processors receiving instructions from a software program. The pump system may be located within a pylon, but yet remain vibrationally and acoustically de-coupled from the pylon. | 02-24-2011 |
20110060421 | CONTROL SYSTEM FOR PROSTHESIS - A vacuum pump system for a prosthesis device includes an enhanced suspension mechanism and cooperates with a pressure source, an adaptor assembly, circuitry, and a power source. A virtually air-tight seal between a residual limb and a socket of the prosthesis allows a vacuum fit to be generated by the pump system. The pump system may be controlled with various circuits and processors receiving instructions from a software program. The pump system may be located within a pylon, but yet remain vibrationally and acoustically de-coupled from the pylon. | 03-10-2011 |
20110071648 | Prosthetic socket - A socket assembly for use with a prosthetic device. The socket assembly receives at least a portion of a residual limb on which the prosthetic device is attached. The socket assembly includes an airtight outer shell adapted and constructed to receive a portion of the residual limb of an amputee, the shell having an interior and an exterior. A vacuum-permeable skin interface is secured to at least a portion of the interior of the outer shell. A high-vacuum valve communicates between the interior of the socket and the exterior of the socket, the valve being adapted and constructed to be attached to a vacuum source. When the residual limb is positioned in the socket assembly and the high-vacuum valve is connected to a vacuum source, the vacuum force exerted by the source is evenly distributed to the residual limb through the skin interface | 03-24-2011 |
20110071649 | Prosthetic Socket Liner - A removable liner used in conjunction with a socket for a prosthetic device, in which a vacuum is wicked across the entire area of a porous fabric of the liner, is disclosed. The liner preferably includes a shaped-layer made from one of either a silicone or a urethane and has an exterior surface, an interior surface and a passage therein which opens at each of the two surfaces and connects to a valve of the socket. The liner further includes a first porous fabric covering at least a portion of the exterior surface of the shaped-layer including the corresponding opening of the passage, and a second porous fabric covering at least a portion of the interior surface of the shaped-layer including the corresponding opening of the passage. A vacuum source coupled to the liner, via the valve on the socket, draws a vacuum which is wicked across the entire surface of the first and second porous fabrics which interface with the socket and the user's residual limb, respectively. The vacuum secures the socket to the liner and the liner to the residual limb of the user. | 03-24-2011 |
20110118853 | Prosthetic Socket Stabilization Apparatus and Technique - A portable device, with method, advantageously applies dynamic stimulation of enclosed muscle tissue to stabilize a prosthetic socket on a residual limb. Dynamic stimulation is in response to physical conditions such as prosthesis motion, position and/or internal pressures. Tissue volume contained within the socket may be stabilized by varying average stimulation levels in response to internal socket pressure. | 05-19-2011 |
20110125291 | PROSTHETIC DEVICE AND CONNECTING SYSTEM USING A VACUUM - The disclosed prosthetic device may comprise a receptacle for receiving a limb of a person; a vacuum pump in fluid communication with the receptacle for maintaining an amount of vacuum used for connecting the receptacle to the limb of the person; a controller; and/or an electronically controllable fluid control device. The controller may be configured to provide a vacuum signature to be displayed at a user interface and/or to control the amount of vacuum used for connecting the receptacle to the limb of the person. | 05-26-2011 |
20110184532 | PROSTHETIC DEVICE AND CONNECTING SYSTEM USING VACUUM - A prosthetic device comprises a connecting portion for connecting to a person using vacuum; and a control structure for controlling an amount of vacuum used to connect the connecting portion to the person, wherein the control structure includes: a vacuum pump ( | 07-28-2011 |
20110196510 | PLUNGER PIN AND MANIFOLD FOR A PROSTHETIC LIMB - An elevated vacuum locking system for prosthetic limb. An exemplary embodiment may include a plunger pin mounted to a flexible liner and including a through passage between a location proximate the exterior of the liner and a distal end of the plunger pin; a locking mechanism mounted within the distal end of a socket; a manifold mounted to the exterior of the distal end of the socket and including a cavity adapted to receive the distal end of the plunger pin when the patient's residual limb and the liner are installed into the socket, the manifold including a through passage connecting an interior of the cavity to an exterior fitting; and a vacuum pump operative to withdraw air from the interior of the socket via the through passage of the plunger pin, the cavity, and the through passage of the manifold. | 08-11-2011 |
20110196511 | METHOD OF DONNING A PROSTHETIC LIMB - An elevated vacuum locking system for prosthetic limb. An exemplary embodiment may include a plunger pin mounted to a flexible liner and including a through passage between a location proximate the exterior of the liner and a distal end of the plunger pin; a locking mechanism mounted within the distal end of a socket; a manifold mounted to the exterior of the distal end of the socket and including a cavity adapted to receive the distal end of the plunger pin when the patient's residual limb and the liner are installed into the socket, the manifold including a through passage connecting an interior of the cavity to an exterior fitting; and a vacuum pump operative to withdraw air from the interior of the socket via the through passage of the plunger pin, the cavity, and the through passage of the manifold. | 08-11-2011 |
20110270413 | PROSTHETIC SYSTEM AND METHOD UTILIZING MICROPROCESSOR-CONTROLLED ELECTRIC VACUUM PUMP - A prosthetic system having a microprocessor-controlled socket evacuation device, and a method of retaining a prosthesis on the residual limb of an amputee using such an evacuation device. The evacuation device preferably includes at least an electrically powered vacuum pump and a power source. The microprocessor control allows the evacuation device to be operated in a manner that automatically adjusts the socket vacuum level to correspond to a determined activity level of a user. The microprocessor control may also limit operation of the evacuation device to certain determined portions of a user's gait cycle. | 11-03-2011 |
20110295386 | VALVE SYSTEM FOR PROSTHETICS - A valve system regulates the air pressure in the space(s) between a residual limb, or liner-covered limb, and a hard socket of an external prosthesis, for example, for improving donning and doffing the prosthesis, and/or during walking and other normal use of the prosthesis. The valve system may include a manually-controlled air outlet and inlet valve that may be installed on a distal region of a hard socket, and/or an automatic one-way outlet valve. The manually-controlled valve is preferably opened and closed by twisting of a handle portion of the valve system, wherein partial rotation of the handle portion relative to the base portion of the valve system creates slight separation of the handle and base portions to form a gap through which may pass air from the well of the socket. This simple twisting, or partial rotation, provides a valve that stays open hands-free, so that the wearer may open the valve and then use his/her hands to don or doff the prosthesis. The manual valve may include a system for preventing the handle and base from becoming entirely separated during normal use, which preferably is a snap-fit of the base onto the handle that retains the ability of the handle and base to rotate relative to each other, and a stop(s) that limit(s) the amount of relative rotation of the handle and base portions of the valve. Opening and closing of the manual valve may be accomplished by a ramp system, so that, upon rotation of the handle in one direction, the handle comes close to, and seals with, the base, and upon rotation of the handle in the opposite direction, the handle becomes slightly distanced from, and unsealed from, the base. | 12-01-2011 |
20110307080 | DISTAL LOCK FOR A PROSTHETIC HARD SOCKET - A lock connects the distal end of a liner to the distal end of the hard socket of a prosthetic leg, and limits or prevents air flow into the hard socket through the distal lock mechanism, even when vacuum is established inside the socket. The distal lock normally is latched, but can be conveniently unlatched by swinging a cammed latch handle. The liner pin may be inserted and locked into the distal lock, without the distal lock being unlatched and without losing the internal air seal preventing air flow through passages of the lock. A slidable, biased lock blade, and interaction between slanted surfaces of the blade and the liner pin, allow the pin to slide down, but not up, past the blade. The latch handle does protrude radially outward a significant distance, when the lock is unlatched, but, as soon as the lock is latched, the handle resides against and/or near the outer surface of the lock housing. | 12-15-2011 |
20120004737 | PROSTHETIC DEVICE UTILIZING ELECTRIC VACUUM PUMP - A prosthetic assembly operative to evacuate an interior of a prosthetic socket, and control systems for use therewith. The prosthetic assembly employs evacuation devices for evacuating the socket. The evacuation devices preferably include at least an electrically powered vacuum pump and a power source located within a housing. Associated control systems may be of various design and may employ wired or wireless communication. When wireless communication is employed, a hand held controller or other remote control device may be used to remotely control operation of the evacuation device. | 01-05-2012 |
20120022667 | INTELLIGENT PROSTHETIC SOCKET SYSTEM WITH ACTIVE USER FEEDBACK INTERFACE AND REAL TIME PROSTHESIS DIAGNOSTICS - An apparatus is provided for use with a prosthetic system. The apparatus includes a controller and a wireless smart device. The controller operates to gather data and derive prosthetic information from a plurality of sensors, and transmits the prosthetic information over a wireless radio link, where the controller and the plurality of sensors are disposed within the interior of a prosthetic socket. The wireless smart device is coupled to the controller via the wireless radio link, and receives the prosthetic information, and provides visual and audio representations of the prosthetic information to a user. | 01-26-2012 |
20120123559 | PUMP COMPRISING A MOVING WALL AND USE OF A PUMP OF THIS TYPE - The invention relates to a pump comprising a wall, which forms an enclosed fluid volumetric space and which can be moved by a first force in a direction resulting in a decrease in volume and, after a preceding decrease in volumetric space, can be moved by a second force in a direction resulting in an increase in volume. The pump also comprises an inlet valve, which communicates with an inlet valve, and comprises an outlet valve in an outlet line of the fluid volumetric space. The inventive pump has a compact design due to the fact that it is provided in the form of a vacuum pump whose volumetric space can be decreased by the external first force acting against an elastically deformable material whose restoring force, after the external force ceases, generates the second force acting counter to the generated vacuum. | 05-17-2012 |
20120143351 | VACUUM PROSTHESIS WITH FORCE SENSING MEMBER - A prosthetic device includes a socket assembly defining a cavity and configured to receive a portion of a residual limb of a user within the cavity, a force sensing member configured to detect forces applied to the residual limb at a plurality of locations about the portion of the residual limb and generate signals based on the detected force, a vacuum system in fluid communication with the socket and configured to control an amount of vacuum applied to the cavity, and a controller coupled to the force sensing member and the vacuum system. The controller is configured to receive the signals from the force sensing member and control operation of the vacuum system during use of the prosthetic device by the user based at least in part on the signals received from the force sensing member. | 06-07-2012 |
20120173000 | Dynamically Activated Variable Response Socket with Hydraulic Pump - An articulating prosthetic foot is used for a prosthetic or orthotic artificial limb for amputees having a residual limb. The artificial limb has a pylon and a socket for receiving the residual limb and a vacuum pump connected to the socket. The articulating foot articulates on the pylon and has a hydraulic pump. The hydraulic pump is driven by the articulating motion of the foot and drives the vacuum pump. | 07-05-2012 |
20120173001 | Dynamically Activated Variable Response Socket with Hydraulic Pump - A hydraulically-driven vacuum pump is used for a prosthetic or orthotic artificial limb for amputees having a residual limb. The artificial limb has a pylon and a socket for receiving the residual limb. The vacuum pump is connected to the socket and mounted in-line on the pylon. An upper portion housing of the vacuum pump is connected to the vacuum pump by a port. A lower portion housing of the vacuum pump reciprocates within the upper housing portion and is connected to a piston of the hydraulic pump. The weight of the amputee bears on the pylon and drives the lower portion within the upper portion thereby driving the hydraulic pump. | 07-05-2012 |
20120191217 | Socket system including a vacuum liner for prosthetic or orthotic devices and associated methods - The socket system includes a socket and a vacuum liner. A one-way valve is positioned within the closed distal end of the socket and provides controlled fluid communication between the interior socket space and an external environment. The closed distal end of the vacuum liner includes a distal portion formed of a higher durometer elastomeric material than the surrounding portions of the liner, and including a concave section extending from an external surface thereof towards the interior liner space. The socket, on the interior of the closed distal end thereof, includes a receiving portion that corresponds to and receives the distal portion of the vacuum liner | 07-26-2012 |
20120191218 | Suspension Device for a Limb Prosthesis or Orthosis - A vacuum-assisted suspension device for a lower limb prosthesis secures the prosthesis to a residual body portion. Sandwiched between the residual body portion and an impermeable socket is a flexible liner made of an impermeable material that is porous to allow the transport of air and fluid directly away from the residual body portion to the outer surface of the liner. A fabric distribution layer is located over the liner and between the liner and the socket to allow transmission of such extracted air and fluid laterally over the liner to an evacuation port in the socket. The evacuation port has an associated one-way valve. During use, loading of the socket compresses the flexible liner and air is expelled via the evacuation port. When the load is removed, a vacuum is created directly between the residual body portion and the socket, the vacuum being maintained by the one-way valve. | 07-26-2012 |
20120215324 | AIRFLOW REGULATION SYSTEM FOR ARTIFICIAL LIMB AND ASSOCIATED METHODS - The airflow regulation system is to be attached to a residual limb of an amputee. The device includes an airflow liner to define a regulated environment between the residual limb and the airflow liner. The liner has a plurality of airflow passageways defining inflow air channels and an outflow air channel in fluid communication with the defined regulated environment. An airflow control system is connected inline with the outflow and inflow air channels. The airflow control system includes an airflow regulation device, such as a vacuum pump, and an airflow initiating device, such as a solenoid. | 08-23-2012 |
20130073057 | Implantable Prosthetic Device For Distribution Of Weight On Amputated Limb And Method Of Use With An External Prosthetic Device - Embodiments of the invention include an implantable force distribution boot with hydraulic features that mimic the natural hydraulics of a joint. Further embodiments include an exterior prosthetic leg device having intermittent and/or variable electromagnetic features that can engage with magnetic blades on the implantable force distribution boot. In use, the exterior prosthetic leg can be maintained on a residual limb by magnetic force between the implanted blades and the exterior electromagnets. Also disclosed are surgical techniques for preparing a residual limb to better receive and adapt to a prosthetic device. The techniques include an improved surgical method for harvesting a vascularized glabrous skin free flap. | 03-21-2013 |
20130096694 | VACUUM PUMP SYSTEMS FOR PROSTHETIC LIMBS AND METHODS OF USING THE SAME - Pump systems for use in suspension of a prosthetic device from a residual limb and methods of suspending a prosthetic device from a residual limb are disclosed. The pump systems include a mechanically activated pump having a first compression member coupled to a second compression member, a compressible bladder disposed between the first and second compression members, and coupling elements that engage and couple together the first and second compression members. The mechanically activated pump may be connected with an electrically activated pump within a fluid circuit of a hybrid pump system to provide vacuum engagement between a prosthetic device and a residual limb. | 04-18-2013 |
20130110257 | Bleeder Valve For A Prosthetic Limb Assembly | 05-02-2013 |
20130150982 | Prosthesis - The invention relates to a prosthesis with a prosthesis socket which has an inner face and is designed to be arranged on an amputation stump after a liner has been pulled over the latter, such that the inner face is directed toward the liner and a volume is enclosed between the inner face and the liner, and with a pump for generating an underpressure in the volume when the prosthesis socket is arranged on the amputation stump, characterized in that the pump is a peristaltic pump ( | 06-13-2013 |
20130173020 | ELEVATED VACUUM LOCKING SYSTEM - Vacuum locking systems for prosthetic limbs are generally disclosed. An example double-wall socket system according to at least some aspects of the present disclosure may include a flexible liner shaped to accept a portion of a residual limb; a plunger pin mounted to a distal end of the flexible liner; an inner socket shaped to receive the flexible liner and the residual limb; an outer socket shaped to receive the inner socket, the flexible liner, and the residual limb; a locking mechanism mounted at least partially within the inner socket approximate a distal end of the inner socket; and a manifold mounted to a distal end of the outer socket. The manifold may be configured to be connected to a vacuum pump for withdrawing air from the double wall socket system. | 07-04-2013 |
20130197670 | SEALING SHEATH FOR PROSTHETIC LINER AND RELATED METHODS - The sealing sheath is for use with a prosthetic socket and associated liner. The sealing sheath includes a textile tube for surrounding at least a portion of a liner that is configured to wear on a residual limb. An annular seal, e.g. an elastomeric or silicone seal, is positioned adjacent a proximal end of the textile tube and continuously extends from an inside of the textile tube configured to be adjacent the liner, through the textile tube to an outside thereof configured to be adjacent an inside of the prosthetic socket. The annular seal may include a first wing on an inside of the textile tube configured to be adjacent the liner, a second wing on an outside of the textile tube configured to be adjacent an inside of the prosthetic socket, and a base connecting lower ends of the first and second wings to define a v-shaped cross-section of the annular seal. | 08-01-2013 |
20130211544 | VACUUM ASSISTED SUSPENSION SYSTEM - A vacuum assisted suspension system is used to increase or maintain negative pressure or vacuum in a sealed socket cavity as a socket and prosthetic limb attachment mechanism. The system includes a vacuum pump having a housing that defines an enclosed space to receive a fluid. At least one wall of the housing and at least one movable wall define a fluid compartment. The system includes a compression transfer element connected to the at least one movable wall and connected to a prosthetic foot. The compression transfer element causes the at least one movable wall of the fluid compartment to move and increase the volume of the fluid compartment in response to a compressive force on the prosthetic foot to draw in fluid from the prosthetic socket. In the absence of a compressive force, the volume of the fluid compartment decreases thereby expelling fluid out of the fluid compartment. | 08-15-2013 |
20130218296 | ADJUSTABLE PROSTHETIC SOCKET AND SUSPENSION SYSTEM - The present disclosure is directed towards a socket and suspension system that offers the user increased ease of donning the prosthesis, volume adjustability, and improved circulation. The prosthetic includes a socket and liner. The socket and liner can be custom made for the amputee or prefabricated. The liner acts as an interface between the custom socket and the amputee's residual limb. Moving fluid in or out of the area between the liner and the socket causes the liner to push away from the socket wall or pull into the socket wall thereby changing the volume inside the socket. Moving the liner closer to the socket wall enlarges the volume inside the socket making it easier for the patient to put on the prosthetic. The socket and suspension system can include a pump which can manually or automatically adjust the volume inside the socket and suspension of the prosthesis. | 08-22-2013 |
20130245785 | INTELLIGENT PROSTHETIC SOCKET SYSTEM WITH ACTIVE USER FEEDBACK INTERFACE AND REAL TIME PROSTHESIS DIAGNOSTICS - An apparatus is provided for use with a prosthetic system. The apparatus includes a housing that is disposed within a prosthetic socket. The housing has a vacuum pump and a switch. The a vacuum pump is actuated to maintain a negative air pressure within the prosthetic socket. The switch is configured to allow a user to operate the vacuum pump. | 09-19-2013 |
20130282142 | AIR VALVE FOR EXTERNAL PROSTHESIS - A valve device regulates the air pressure in the space between a residual limb, or liner-covered limb, and a hard socket of an external prosthesis. A manually-controlled air-outlet and -inlet valve may optionally include an automatic one-way valve (or “expulsion” valve). The manually-controlled valve is opened and closed by twisting a handle, to open a two-way air passageway by slightly separating the handle and base portions, or by aligning bores in the handle and base portions. At least one stop surface limits the amount of relative rotation of the handle and base portions of the valve, so that the user need only rotate the handle a small amount, for example, less than 90 degrees, to affect opening or closing the valve. | 10-24-2013 |
20130289741 | PROSTHETIC DEVICE, SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR INCREASING VACUUM ATTACHMENT - A prosthetic device, system and method is arranged to generate negative pressure inside a prosthetic socket. A pump mechanism is connected to a prosthetic foot and has a fluid chamber in fluid communication with the prosthetic socket during gait for drawing air from the prosthetic socket in step phase, and expelling air into the atmosphere in swing phase. The vacuum assisted suspension results in secure and intimate suspension as the negative pressure formed inside the prosthetic socket holds a residuum firmly to walls of the prosthetic socket. The vacuum is preferably formed at the distal area of the prosthetic socket, and sealed by a suspension liner having a seal component. | 10-31-2013 |
20130289742 | PROSTHETIC DEVICE, SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR INCREASING VACUUM ATTACHMENT - A prosthetic device, system and method is arranged to generate negative pressure inside a prosthetic socket. A pump mechanism is connected to a prosthetic foot and has a fluid chamber in fluid communication with the prosthetic socket during gait for drawing air from the prosthetic socket in step phase, and expelling air into the atmosphere in swing phase. The vacuum assisted suspension results in secure and intimate suspension as the negative pressure formed inside the prosthetic socket holds a residuum firmly to walls of the prosthetic socket. The vacuum is preferably formed at the distal area of the prosthetic socket, and sealed by a suspension liner having a seal component. | 10-31-2013 |
20140031953 | Mounting Plate System, Vacuum Reservoir Plate and Electronic Pump System for Prosthetic Socket and Related Methods - The mounting plate system is for use with a prosthetic socket, the socket having at least one aperture in a distal end thereof and in fluid communication with an interior portion of the socket which receives a residual limb. The mounting plate system includes a mounting plate having a top face to interface with the socket, and a bottom face for attachment to lower portions of a prosthetic limb. An opening in the mounting plate extends from the top face to the bottom face thereof, and a valve housing is positioned in the opening and has a channel therein for fluid communication with the interior portion of the socket via the at least one aperture. A one-way expulsion valve is secured between the valve housing and the socket adjacent the aperture and for regulating fluid communication between the interior portion of the socket and the channel in the valve housing. A vacuum reservoir seal plate is also provided. | 01-30-2014 |
20140039643 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PROSTHETIC SUSPENSION SYSTEM - A prosthetic device includes an inner socket assembly including an upper interface member having a generally cylindrical outer periphery, the outer periphery defining a diameter and a length, the diameter being substantially greater than the length, and an outer socket assembly including a lower interface member having a recess correspondingly-shaped to the outer periphery of the upper interface member. At least a portion of the upper interface member is received within the recess of the lower interface member to secure the inner socket assembly to the outer socket assembly. | 02-06-2014 |
20140067084 | VALVE FOR PROSTHESIS ATTACHMENT - Devices, systems, and methods relating to a valve that may be used with a prosthesis attachment include a valve assembly that includes a spring loaded insert portion and a base portion that interfaces to lock and unlock by depressing the spring loaded insert portion. | 03-06-2014 |
20140195008 | SUSPENSION LINER SYSTEM WITH SEAL - A suspension liner sleeve adapted to provide an interface between a residual limb and a prosthetic socket, and having outer and inner surfaces. The liner sleeve includes an elongate, generally conical body portion formed from at least one material segment defining the liner outer surface. The at least one material segment being at least radially elastically extensible from a relaxed non-extended condition and including proximal and distal end areas. The liner sleeve includes a layer of polymeric material disposed on the at least one material segment and defining the liner sleeve inner surface, and a plurality of resilient seal elements protruding radially from the liner sleeve outer surface. The plurality of seal elements extend around at least one peripheral portion of the liner body portion. A pair of opposed annular recesses may be adjacently located above and below each of the at least one seal element. | 07-10-2014 |
20140222165 | MOUNTING PLATE ASSEMBLY FOR PROSTHETIC DEVICE - A prosthetic device and a method for making the same includes a mounting plate assembly. The mounting plate assembly includes an inner housing having a first center channel defined along a central axis, an outer housing having a second center channel defined along the central axis, and a fluid regulator arranged between the inner and outer housings, and defined along the central axis. The prosthetic device includes a socket having a cavity and a distal portion whereat the mounting plate assembly is located. | 08-07-2014 |
20140257522 | SUSPENSION LINER SYSTEM WITH SEAL - A suspension liner sleeve adapted to provide an interface between a residual limb and a prosthetic socket, and having outer and inner surfaces. The liner sleeve includes an elongate, generally conical body portion formed from at least one material segment defining the liner outer surface. The at least one material segment being at least radially elastically extensible from a relaxed non-extended condition and including proximal and distal end areas. The liner sleeve includes a layer of polymeric material disposed on the at least one material segment and defining the liner sleeve inner surface, and a plurality of resilient seal elements protruding radially from the liner sleeve outer surface. The plurality of seal elements extend around at least one peripheral portion of the liner body portion. A pair of opposed annular recesses may be adjacently located above and below each of the at least one seal element. | 09-11-2014 |
20140296998 | DEVICE AND PROSTHESIS SYSTEM - The invention relates to a device for connecting a pump, having a through-hole ( | 10-02-2014 |
20150012112 | Prosthetic Pin Locking Mechanism with Vacuum Tunnels - A pin lock for a prosthetic device in a vacuum assisted suspension system includes a pin defining a longitudinally elongate bore and at least one passageway extending obliquely relative to the bore and communicating therewith at a proximal end of the pin. The pin lock also includes a locking mechanism having a receiving port arranged to receive the pin and a channel located at a distal end of the receiving port and adapted to communicate with the bore to exhaust air through the pin therefrom. | 01-08-2015 |
20150105866 | SOCKET SYSTEM INCLUDING A VACUUM LINER FOR PROSTHETIC OR ORTHOTIC DEVICES AND ASSOCIATED METHODS - The socket system includes a socket and a vacuum liner. A one-way valve is positioned within the closed distal end of the socket and provides controlled fluid communication between the interior socket space and an external environment. The closed distal end of the vacuum liner includes a distal portion formed of a higher durometer elastomeric material than the surrounding portions of the liner, and including a concave section extending from an external surface thereof towards the interior liner space. The socket, on the interior of the closed distal end thereof, includes a receiving portion that corresponds to and receives the distal portion of the vacuum liner (e.g. matching the perimeter and depth of the distal portion). The receiving portion includes a bottom surface (e.g. a flat surface) opposite to the concave section of the vacuum liner when received therein, and defining an exterior liner space therewith. | 04-16-2015 |
20150119997 | Adjustable Prosthetic Limb Socket - The present relates to an adjustable prosthetic limb socket system having a partial rigid support, a non-elastic, flexible support and adjustment means. The adjustable socket system of the present invention can be used for several types of amputations including transfemoral amputations, transtibial amputations, transhumeral amputations, transradial amputations, and other types of amputations. The present invention further includes kits having the adjustable prosthetic limb socket system, as well as methods of making the adjustable prosthetic limb socket system. Methods of using the socket system are further encompassed by the present invention. | 04-30-2015 |
20150142131 | ADJUSTABLE SEAL SYSTEM, SEAL COMPONENT AND METHOD FOR USING THE SAME - An adjustable seal system, seal component for use in the system, and method are provided for forming a sealing interface between a residual limb and a prosthetic socket. The seal component is selectively placed over the outer surface of a suspension liner including a plurality of seal bands, which the seal component may removably and securely engage. | 05-21-2015 |
20150289999 | PROSTHESIS SOCKET - The invention relates to a prosthesis socket having a socket body ( | 10-15-2015 |
20150359644 | Systems, Devices, and Methods for Prosthetic Socket Adjustment - The present invention generally relates to prosthetic socket accommodation systems. In some embodiments a prosthetic socket accommodation system may be configured to automatically adjust the accommodation system in response to user activities. In some embodiments, a controller of the prosthetic socket accommodation system may be customized for a prosthetics user based on an activity volume profile of the prosthetics user. The activity volume profile may correspond to a residual limb fluid volume response to prosthetics user activity. In some embodiments, a controller of a socket accommodation system may be configured to control pistoning during prosthetic socket use. Some embodiments are related to sensors for identifying prosthetics user activity. In some embodiments a three-axis sensor may be used to identify prosthetics user activity. In some embodiments a socket proximity sensor comprising an infrared sensor may be used to detect socket donning and doffing by the prosthetics user. | 12-17-2015 |
20150366680 | INTELLIGENT PROSTHETIC SOCKET SYSTEM WITH ACTIVE USER FEEDBACK INTERFACE AND REAL TIME PROSTHESIS DIAGNOSTICS - An apparatus is provided for use with a prosthetic system. The apparatus includes a controller and a wireless smart device. The controller operates to gather data and derive prosthetic information from a plurality of sensors, and transmits the prosthetic information over a wireless radio link, where the controller and the plurality of sensors are disposed within the interior of a prosthetic socket. The wireless smart device is coupled to the controller via the wireless radio link, and receives the prosthetic information, and provides visual and audio representations of the prosthetic information to a user. | 12-24-2015 |
20160000585 | PUMP MECHANISM FOR VACUUM SUSPENSION SYSTEM - A vacuum suspension system includes a pump mechanism operatively connectable to a prosthetic socket. The pump mechanism has a first member and a second member. First and second fluid chambers are located between the first and second members. The second fluid chamber is fluidly separate from the first fluid chamber, and arranged for fluid communication with the socket. An increase in volume of the first fluid chamber mechanically expands the second fluid chamber, which, in turn, creates a vacuum pressure in the second fluid chamber. | 01-07-2016 |
20160008148 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PROSTHETIC SUSPENSION SYSTEM | 01-14-2016 |
20160022441 | System and Method for Sealing Prosthetic Socket - Various embodiments of a system and method for sealing a prosthetic socket are disclosed. One example socket sealing system may comprise: a prosthetic socket having a proximal end, an expanded section, and an internal peripheral shoulder; a brim seal having an inner proximal end, an outer proximal end, and a distal end; a removable brim having a distal end; a liner; and a wicking sock; wherein prosthetic socket may be oriented radially outwardly of the outer proximal end of the brim seal, the outer proximal end of the brim seal may be oriented radially outwardly of the removable brim, the removable brim may be oriented radially outwardly of the inner proximal end of the brim seal, the inner proximal end of the brim seal may be oriented radially outwardly of the wicking sock, and the wicking sock may be oriented radially outwardly of the liner; and wherein the brim seal may be reflected about the distal end of the removable brim. | 01-28-2016 |
20160058583 | HYDRAULICALLY AMPLIFIED VACUUM PUMP FOR PROSTHETIC AND ORTHOTIC DEVICES - Methods and apparatus are disclosed relating to a mechanical vacuum socket pump used to establish a vacuum in a socket of an artificial limb. In one case, the pump includes a housing within which two pistons coaxially reciprocate. A surface of each of the pistons is linked hydraulically, such that driving one piston causes movement of the other piston through a hydraulic chamber. One piston is also linked to a pneumatic chamber such that movement of that piston draws air from a limb socket or expels air to the atmosphere upon movement of the piston's pneumatic surface. The surface area of the hydraulic surface of this piston is significantly less than the surface area of the pneumatic surface, so a small volumetric displacement of hydraulic fluid may cause a large displacement of air. Thus, the pump efficiently pumps air with minimal compression and extension of the pump as a whole. | 03-03-2016 |
20160067063 | VACUUM ASSISTED SUSPENSION SYSTEM - A vacuum assisted suspension system includes an elongate compression transfer element and a pump housing. The pump housing defines an enclosed space to receive a fluid. At least one wall of the housing and at least one movable wall define a fluid compartment and a non-fluid chamber. The at least one movable wall is connected to the compression transfer element. The compression transfer element causes the at least one movable wall of the fluid compartment to reciprocate in the fluid compartment to increase the volume of the fluid compartment in response to a compressive force on the compression transfer element and enables the at least one movable wall to decrease the volume of the fluid compartment in the absence of a compressive force. | 03-10-2016 |
20160106557 | SUSPENSION LINER SYSTEM WITH SEAL - A suspension liner is adapted to provide an interface between a residual limb and a prosthetic socket. The suspension liner defines an interior surface and an exterior surface forming a liner profile between a closed distal end and an open proximal end. The suspension liner defines a liner body portion formed from an elastomeric material and at least one seal protruding circumferentially about and radially outward a distance from the liner profile, which is defined at areas outside the at least one seal. The at least one seal defines a sealing surface arranged to deflect toward the liner profile and take up a higher pressure when donned on a residual limb and engaged with an interior wall of the prosthetic socket. | 04-21-2016 |
20160120665 | PROSTHETIC LINER AND PROSTHETIC SHAFT SYSTEM COMPRISING PROSTHETIC LINER AND PROSTHETIC SHAFT - A prosthetic liner for application on a stump, comprising an elastic base, which has a proximal opening for insertion of the stump in a receiving space, and a distal end. At least one pneumatic piston is arranged on the outer face of the prosthetic liner. | 05-05-2016 |
20160143752 | PROSTHETIC SOCKET SUSPENSION DEVICE EMBODIMENTS - Embodiments of the technology include a prosthetic socket suspension device having a distal cup portion and a liner garment portion, these two portions being bonded together. In various embodiments, a distal cup may be disposed within a liner, a liner may be disposed within a distal cup, and a distal cup may be disposed between distally bifurcated internal and an external layers of a liner. Distal cup are sized and shaped to accommodate a distal portion of a residual limb of a patient. Distal cup embodiments may be formed from either a thermoplastic or thermoset plastic composition. Thermoplastic cup embodiments may be thermally reformed around the distal portion of the limb so as to create a highly conformal fit. Embodiments of the technology further include methods fabricating the prosthetic suspension device, and methods of thermally reforming the suspension device so as to fit a distal aspect of the residual limb of a patient. | 05-26-2016 |
20160158035 | Adaptable Socket System, Method, and Kit - An adjustable socket system, method, and kit for use with prosthetic devices or orthotic, orthopedic, or exoskeletal support devices that includes a paddle and a compressing device coupled to the paddle. The paddle is chosen from a plurality of paddles of different shapes in such a way that the paddle inner surface is substantially coextensive with a soft tissue area overlying skeletal structures. The compressing device presses the paddle against the soft tissue area in order to minimize the motion of the paddle relative to the underlying skeletal structures without causing discomfort to the user or compressing areas not in contact with the paddle, allowing compressed tissue to flow into uncompressed areas. The system, method, and kit can include an external tool, sensors, actuators, and controllers, to assist fitting and for adjustment after fitting. A stabilizer can be added to resist the bending force on the paddle. | 06-09-2016 |
20160184113 | LIMB SOCKET LINER WITH SEAL - A system for attaching a prosthetic limb to a residual limb. In embodiments, the system includes a liner having an elastic sleeve adapted to accommodate a residual limb; and a socket adapted to surround the elastic sleeve, the socket having a vacuum port, an inner surface, and a vacuum channel extending radially outward from the inner surface and longitudinally within the socket, the vacuum channel being configured so as to be in fluid communication with the vacuum port when the residual limb and liner are disposed in the socket. In some embodiments the sleeve has an annular groove disposed on an inner surface of the sleeve and a flexible annular seal extending radially inward from an inner surface of the sleeve below the groove, the annular groove being adapted receive at least part of the annular seal when the annular seal is moved toward the interior surface of the sleeve. | 06-30-2016 |
20160193058 | PROSTHETIC SOCKET SEALING SYSTEM AND METHOD | 07-07-2016 |
20160250045 | PROSTHETIC DEVICE UTILIZING ELECTRIC VACUUM PUMP | 09-01-2016 |