Description:The following specification describes the invention and the manner in which it is to be designed:
FIELD OF INVENTION
The present invention within the field of prosthetics and medical applications focuses on enhancing the fit and functionality of prosthetic limbs. Specifically, it introduces a cutting-edge Prosthetic Socket and Liner System with Smart Sensor Integration. This innovative system tackles the challenges associated with prosthetic fit adjustment, offering an efficient solution to achieve an optimal fit without the need for socket and liner replacement. The core feature of this invention lies in its integration of smart sensors within the socket and liner. These sensors facilitate real-time monitoring of the amputee's limb health, providing valuable data for adjustments. By revolutionizing the process of acquiring a proper fit, the Prosthetic Socket and Liner with Smart Sensor Integration stands poised to significantly advance the field of prosthetics. This invention represents a groundbreaking contribution to prosthetic technology, offering a holistic solution to improve the fit, functionality, and overall well-being of prosthetic limb users.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The challenges in achieving precise and accurate fit for residual limbs in medical applications are complex, particularly during the mold-making process. Identifying critical pressure points becomes pivotal, and any movements or shifts in limb position can introduce errors, compromising data integrity and impacting subsequent phases like prosthetic design and surgical planning.
Compounding these challenges are the disruptive effects of scarring and tissue irregularities, leading to distorted mold contour representations, disrupting limb surface continuity.
In modern medical applications, especially in prosthetics and surgical planning, the acquisition of precise fit adjustment is crucial. A comprehensive understanding of residual limb movements and muscular activity is essential for optimal functionality and a seamless fit of prosthetic devices. Accurate fit data is equally vital for surgeons, enhancing the precision and efficiency of complex surgical interventions.
Traditional methods face significant challenges, resulting in compromised accuracy and reliability. Recent years have seen a heightened focus on developing innovative technologies and techniques to overcome these challenges. These advancements promise improved accuracy and reliability in acquiring fit data for residual limbs.

OBJECTIVE OF THE INVENTION
The Prosthetic Socket and Liner System with Smart Sensor Integration addresses challenges in manual dimensioning of residual limbs, mitigating potential errors due to limb movement, hand tremors, or residual pressure points during the mold-making process. The system aims to provide a fully stabilized solution, ensuring a precise and error-free fit of the socket and liner to the residual limb. Its key objective is to facilitate automatic adjustments as needed.
Central to this innovation is the incorporation of a state-of-the-art axiomatic sensory unit. This unit is designed to capture comprehensive data on limb movement and muscular activity. By leveraging advanced sensor technology, the Prosthetic Socket and Liner System guarantees the acquisition of accurate and reliable fit data. Crucially, it compensates for human-induced errors, offering a robust and adaptive solution for achieving optimal prosthetic fit.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The Prosthetic Socket and Liner System with Smart Sensor Integration revolutionizes prosthetic technology by ensuring a precise and accurate fit for optimal functionality. Employing cutting-edge sensing technologies and adaptive feedback mechanisms, the system dynamically adjusts forces and limb parameters in real-time, catering to the distinct characteristics of each residual limb.
A critical challenge in obtaining an accurate fit stems from residual limb instability, lingering pressure points, and irregularities due to prior injuries during the mold-making process. The amputation-induced loss of tissue support can lead to discomfort, pain, and involuntary movements during molding, causing inaccurate fit data.
This innovative system addresses these challenges comprehensively, providing a tailored fit while considering potential errors in the design process. Adjustable to various residual limb sizes and shapes, the device utilizes safe, durable, comfortable, and antimicrobial materials, enhancing the overall fit quality.
The Prosthetic Socket and Liner System aims to improve accuracy and reliability in fit data, promoting comfort and efficiency. Its application extends to prosthetic design, surgical planning, and broader medical contexts. By leveraging this system, medical professionals can achieve precise fit data, resulting in enhanced patient outcomes and personalized medical care.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
Figure 1: Isometric view of the Prosthetic Socket and Liner System with Smart Sensor Integration.
Figure 2: Sectional view of Prosthetic Liner unit.
Figure 3: Top view of Axiomatic Sensory unit.
Figure 4: Sectional front view of Air Bladder unit.
Figure 5: Isometric view of Prosthetic Socket unit.
Figure 6: Isometric view of Moulding Plastic Extrusion unit.
Figure 7: Process mapping blueprint for the Prosthetic Socket and Liner System with Smart Sensor Integration.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
The Prosthetic Socket and Liner with Smart Sensor Integration System (100) represents a ground-breaking solution to the challenges encountered in acquiring accurate and precise fit of residual limbs in prosthetics in medical applications. This innovative system revolutionizes the fit acquisition process, ensuring stability and comfort for the patient while obtaining high-quality data crucial for prosthetic design, surgical planning, and other medical applications. Crafted with utmost care, the Prosthetic Socket and Liner with Smart Sensor Integration System (100) combines safety, durability, and patient comfort in its design. It is constructed using materials that prioritize the well-being of the patient, providing a secure and comfortable experience while application. The device's adjustability allows it to accommodate a wide range of sizes and shapes of residual limbs, ensuring a personalized fit for everyone. Its effortless attachment and design make it efficient and user-friendly.
The core components of the Prosthetic Socket and Liner with Smart Sensor Integration System (100) include a prosthetic liner unit (200), an axiomatic sensory unit (300), an air bladder unit (400), a prosthetic socket unit (500), a Moulding Plastic Extrusion Unit (600).
Once the patient's residual limb (201) is sterilized and disinfected, it is introduced into the initial unit of the device, known as "prosthetic liner unit (200)." It plays a pivotal role in the comfort and functionality of the prosthetic limb.
Prosthetic liner unit (200) primarily comprises a component called the liner (202). The liner (202) serves as a crucial interface between the individual's skin and the prosthetic limb. It is designed as a protective barrier applied directly to the skin before attaching the prosthesis. This serves a dual purpose. Firstly, it acts as a barrier, shielding the wearer's skin from potential friction and pressure points that may arise from contact with the prosthetic. This protection is essential for preventing skin irritation and discomfort.
Furthermore, the liner is equipped with sensors that detect the motion of the residual limb. Their sensory feedback allows the liner to adapt to the limb's (201) movements, providing a precise and comfortable fit for the prosthetic limb. The sensors play a critical role in rectifying any issues or discomfort that may arise during prosthetic use, contributing to a smoother and more functional experience. These sensors come in two key varieties: strain sensors (203) and myoelectric sensors (204), each with their unique role in optimizing the prosthetic experience.
The Strain sensor (203) operates on the principle of piezoresistive technology, these sensors are designed to measure physical pressure and strain. Their role is critical in ensuring that the prosthetic limb snugly fits the patient.
Piezoresistive technology is a sophisticated process that harnesses pressure to gauge the strain or physical pressure experienced during limb movement. It is this technology that enables strain sensors (203) to identify any pressure points that may have been overlooked during the initial fitting process. By doing so, they play a crucial role in enhancing the wearer's comfort and overall experience with prosthetics.
One of the key advantages of piezoresistive strain sensors (203) is their robust nature. They are built to withstand the rigors of daily use, ensuring that their performance and calibration remain stable over time. This durability is vital for long-term functionality and reliability.
Next is the Myoelectric sensors (204) which play a pivotal role in elevating the functionality and comfort of prosthetic limbs. These sophisticated devices are specifically designed to measure the electric outputs of muscles, providing a means to detect and interpret muscle movements.
The myoelectric sensors (204) contribute to a dynamic prosthetic experience. They are finely tuned to discern the subtle electrical signals generated by specific muscle contractions in the residual limb. These signals are a direct reflection of the wearer's intent to move the prosthetic limb. This level of precision is paramount for enabling natural and intuitive control of the prosthetic.
The symbiotic relationship between myoelectric sensors (204) and the liner unit serves as the nexus of innovation in this prosthetic technology. When myoelectric sensors (204) discern the electrical impulses originating from the user's musculature, they promptly relay this critical information to the liner unit (200). The liner unit (200) assumes a pivotal role as an intermediary, skillfully transmuting these electrical cues into precise directives for the prosthetic apparatus, notably the air bladder unit (400). This intricate choreography ensures a seamless orchestration of the prosthetic limb's movements, epitomizing the synergy of science and precision engineering.
The Axiomatic Sensory Unit (300) is an innovative component integral to prosthetic systems, revolutionizing user experience through a meticulously crafted integration of advanced technologies. This seeks to protect the unique combination of myoelectric sensors (204), strain sensors (203), a power supply (301), an alphanumeric display (302), a control board (303), and a feedback mechanism (304) within the Axiomatic Sensory Unit, collectively fostering heightened functionality and precision in prosthetic fit.
The Axiomatic Sensory Unit (300) stands at the forefront of technological integration, seamlessly blending myoelectric sensors (204) and strain sensors (203) to ensure an optimal fit for the user. The incorporation of piezoresistive technology in the strain sensors (203) allows dynamic adjustments of the air bladder (400), enhancing adaptability to the user's residual limb (201).
The primary functions of the Axiomatic Sensory Unit (300) are dual fold. Firstly, it serves as a sophisticated data collection hub, with myoelectric sensors (204) offering a comprehensive insight into the user's muscle dynamics, electrical impulses, and movement. Simultaneously, the unit conducts real-time prosthetic fit assessments, ensuring an impeccable fit by actively adjusting the air bladder (400) based on the feedback received from the strain sensors (203).
The operational core of the unit comprises a robust power supply (301) that delivers the requisite energy to sustain continuous operations. The alphanumeric display (302) serves as an intuitive user interface, providing real-time data and facilitating effortless monitoring. The control board (303), functioning as the device's "brain," orchestrates the intricate signal dance within the circuit, ensuring a seamless and efficient flow of operations.
A distinctive feature of the Axiomatic Sensory Unit (300) is the incorporation of a sophisticated feedback mechanism (304). This mechanism intelligently analyses data to ascertain the perfect prosthetic fit. Collaborating with the air bladder unit (400), it receives and interprets input, ensuring precise fit adjustments. The iterative cycle involves the feedback circuit sending corrective commands to the air bladder until the prosthetic achieves an optimal and personalized fitting.
In short, the Axiomatic Sensory Unit (300) encapsulates a harmonious synergy of cutting-edge sensor technologies, intuitive feedback mechanisms, and intelligent control units. This unit safeguards the meticulous design, intricate functionalities, and automatic error rectification, establishing the unit as a pinnacle in the realm of highly accurate prosthetic systems.
The air bladder unit (400), equipped with its inflatable bladder, springs into action. The bladder is strategically positioned within the prosthetic limb, ready to respond to the signals received. Depending on the specific signals and the corresponding muscle contractions, the air bladder unit adjusts its internal pressure.
This adjustment manifests as the inflation (403) or deflation (401) of the air bladders. By doing so, it meticulously fine-tunes the fit and alignment of the prosthetic limb. When muscles contract to initiate movement, the air bladder unit ensures that the prosthetic mirrors these motions with exceptional precision.
The role of the air bladder unit (400) is pivotal, ensuring that users experience not only functionality but also the crucial aspect of comfort. This component is ingeniously designed to address the issue of size variation in the wearer's limb, ensuring that the prosthetic fits snugly and securely.
When a user's limb size is on the larger side, the air bladder unit springs into action by deflating. This deflation (401) ensures that the prosthetic accommodates the larger dimensions of the limb while maintaining a secure and comfortable fit. The deflation (401) of the air bladder mirrors the expansion of the user's limb, preventing any undue pressure or discomfort.
Conversely, when the limb is smaller in size, the air bladder takes the initiative to inflate (403). This inflation (403) compensates for the reduced dimensions of the limb, ensuring that the prosthetic remains snug and secure. By accommodating the smaller size, the air bladder unit (400) prevents the prosthetic from feeling loose, which is critical for the user's comfort and confidence.
In situations where the limb size is within the regular range, the air bladder remains in its normal condition (402). This equilibrium ensures that the prosthetic maintains a steady and comfortable fit without overinflation or deflation.
The art of the air bladder lies in its ability to adjust itself seamlessly and dynamically according to the size of the wearer's limb. This responsive approach guarantees that the prosthetic fits optimally, eliminating any discomfort or instability that may arise from variations in limb size.
The Prosthetic Socket Unit (500) stands as a pivotal element in the prosthetic system, featuring an advanced supporting unit that plays a crucial role in ensuring stability, reliability, and user comfort. Without this unit, the other components would lack the structural stability necessary for proper functioning.
The Prosthetic Socket Unit (500) serves as a foundational supporting unit, providing a robust base for the entire prosthetic system. It ensures the structural integrity essential for the seamless functioning of integrated components, including the pylon and socket base (502).
Critical to user comfort and safety, the prosthetic socket unit (500) strategically channels vibrations generated by dynamic movements and adjustments of the liner (202), strain sensor (203), myoelectric sensor (204), and air bladder units (400). The pylon and socket base (502) act as essential components for efficiently directing and dissipating these vibrations, preventing discomfort for the wearer.
The prosthetic socket unit (500) incorporates an advanced vibration dampening method, designed to absorb and dissipate shocks effectively. The collaborative action of the pylon and socket base (502) ensures that vibrations are channeled away from the user, maintaining optimal stability and comfort.
Designed with user-centric principles, the prosthetic socket unit (500) prioritizes stability, adaptability, and safety. The collaborative use of the pylon and socket base (502) is integral to the system's overall effectiveness, allowing users to move confidently in various terrains without compromise.
In conclusion, the Prosthetic Socket Unit, incorporating the collaborative efforts of the prosthetic 3D printed socket (501), pylon, and socket base (502), represents a groundbreaking advancement in prosthetic technology. This design ensures optimal functionality, stability, and user confidence in diverse environments.
The Moulding Plastic Extrusion Unit (600) comprises several key components that work together to facilitate the moulding plastic extrusion unit (600). The structural backbone of the unit is the frame (601), which is constructed using durable materials such as aluminum extrusions to provide stability and rigidity during operation. The frame (601) serves as the foundation upon which the other components are mounted.
Three vertical columns (602) are strategically positioned in a triangular arrangement, acting as the primary support structure for the Moulding Plastic Extrusion Unit (600). These columns (602) not only ensure stability but also guide the movement of the carriage (603). The carriage (603) is a platform that moves along the vertical columns (602) and carries the extruder (604) and the print bed (605). This movement allows for precise positioning within the printer's designated print area.
The extruder (604) plays a vital role in the Moulding Plastic Extrusion process by feeding the filament into the print head (607) and melting it for deposition onto the print bed. It consists of a motor-driven gear system that propels the filament through a heated nozzle (608), creating the molten material necessary for layer-by-layer printing.
At the lower end of the vertical columns (602), the effector (606) is directly connected to the carriage (603). The effector acts as a mechanism for transmitting the movement from the carriage (603) to the extruder assembly (604), ensuring synchronized and accurate motion during the printing process.
The print bed (605) serves as the surface upon which the printed object is built layer by layer. It can be heated to improve adhesion and prevent warping of the printed material. The print bed (605) is adjustable to allow for levelling and alignment, ensuring optimal printing conditions.
The print head (607) is located within the print head assembly and moves in three dimensions (X, Y, and Z axes) under the control of the printer's firmware. The print head (607) deposits the molten filament onto the print bed (605) in a controlled manner, following instructions from the slicing software.
The Moulding Plastic Extrusion Unit (600) utilizes multiple stepper motors for precise control of movement. These motors are connected to the vertical columns (602) and the effector (606), enabling synchronized motion of the carriage and print head (607).
The control board (609) serves as the central control unit of the Moulding Plastic Extrusion Unit (600). It receives commands from the slicing software and translates them into instructions for the stepper motors. The control board also manages other components such as temperature control for the heated bed (605) and extruder (604), ensuring proper coordination and synchronization during the printing process.
The Moulding Plastic Extrusion Unit (600) utilizes three identical arms that extend vertically from the top of the vertical columns (602) down to the effector (606). These arms are typically made of lightweight and rigid materials such as carbon fiber or aluminum. They are positioned at equal angles around the effector (606), forming an equilateral triangle. First Arm (610) is typically positioned at the front of the printer, forming one side of the equilateral triangle. Second Arm (611) is usually located on the left-hand side of the printer, forming another side of the equilateral triangle. Third Arm (612) commonly positioned on the right-hand side of the printer, completing the equilateral triangle with the other two arms.
The Moulding Plastic Extrusion Unit (600) is used to produce components used in the Prosthetic Socket and Liner with Smart Sensor Integration System (100) like prosthetic socket (501), prosthetic liner (202), and socket base (502).
, Claims:We Claim
1. A Prosthetic Socket and Liner with Smart Sensor Integration System (100), comprising:
? a prosthetic liner unit (200) consists of a residual limb (201), 3-D printed liner (202) which is endowed with antimicrobial properties, reducing the risk of infection, and improving hygiene for the user, strain sensor (203), and myoelectric sensor (204);
? an axiomatic sensory unit (300) consists of power source (301), alphanumeric display (302), sensor control board (303), feedback circuit (304);
? an air bladder unit (400) serves the vital function of tailoring the fit to the specific needs of the user. It achieves this by offering three distinct contours, namely the deflated contour (401), the original contour (402), and the inflated contour (403), the selection of these contours is based on the precise fit requirements of the individual;
? a prosthetic socket unit (500) consists of 3D printed socket (501), a terminal base (502) for pylon and foot adjustment;
? a molding plastic extrusion unit (600) consists of frame (601), vertical columns (602), carriage (603), extruder (604), print bed (605), effector (606), print head (607), nozzle (608), control board (609) utilized to fabricate parts of a Prosthetic Socket and Liner with Smart Sensor Integration System (100);
characterized in that,
The residual limb is comfortably accommodated within the prosthetic liner unit (200), which is integrated with an axiomatic sensory unit (300) for personalized customization. Subsequently, the tailored assembly is securely affixed to the prosthetic socket unit (500), which benefits from internal encapsulation by the air bladder unit (400), This seamless integration ensures both a precise fit and an optimal level of comfort for the wearer.
2. A Prosthetic Socket and Liner with Smart Sensor Integration System (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the prosthetic liner unit (200) provides cushioning for the residual limb by snugly fitting around it, ensuring comfort and support.
3. A Prosthetic Socket and Liner with Smart Sensor Integration System (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein an axiomatic sensory unit (300) designed to detect mechanical deformation and strain applied to the prosthetic liner unit (200).
4. A Prosthetic Socket and Liner with Smart Sensor Integration System (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein an air bladder unit (400) configured to provide adjustability and customization for fit, pressure distribution, and comfort.
5. A Prosthetic Socket and Liner with Smart Sensor Integration System (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein prosthetic socket unit (500) for affixation to the residual limb of the user.
6. A Prosthetic Socket and Liner with Smart Sensor Integration System (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein a molding plastic extrusion unit (600) used in the fabrication of parts for the prosthetic socket and liner unit (100).