Importance

Loading Importance Indicators...

Abstract

A socket system in a prosthetic or orthotic artificial limb for amputees, the socket system being dynamically activated by weight-bearing loads and variable in response to shear forces imposed by weight-bearing loads. The socket system includes: a liner adapted to engage the residual limb; a semi-flexible inner socket having a textured surface; an inner socket air wick between the liner and the textured surface of the inner socket; a semi-rigid outer socket having a textured surface; an outer socket air wick between the inner socket and the textured surface of the outer socket; a sealing sleeve engaging the outer socket and the residual limb, the sealing sleeve, the outer socket, and the residual limb creating a sealed chamber; and a vacuum source connected to the sealed chamber and creating a vacuum within the sealed chamber. The vacuum source is dynamically activated in response to weight-bearing loads and varies the response of the socket system to shear forces imposed by weight-bearing loads. The socket system may alternatively be a single rigid socket with a flexible brim.The socket system may also include a hydraulic pump driving a vacuum pump to supply vacuum to the sealed chamber. The socket system may also include hydraulically-activated bladders driven by the hydraulic pump to engage the residual limb to support and protect problem areas on the residual limb and increase stabilizing pressure during weight-bearing.

Loading the Abstract Image...

First Claim