Abstract: An incompressible fluid is used to adjust fit for a prosthetic device, the use of a closed loop control system and force, motion, and position measurement to aid with algorithms controlling the fit of the prosthetic device to a residual limb. Embodiments include automatic actuation, based on triggering of threshold values from sensors, a powered full release feature, use of hydraulic transducers to transfer fluid pressure to force on a limb, and customizable pressure distribution pads and embedded valves in transducers to prevent backflow and allow stabilization of the residual limb. A retrofit system may be used for existing prosthetic sockets. A triggering algorithm utilizes measured force exceeding a threshold or thresholds with a characteristic pulse signature and a triggering of release based on a combination of total motion and measured force below a threshold or thresholds.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
September 15, 2015
Date of Patent:
July 23, 2019
Assignee:
Epoch Medical Innovations, Inc.
Inventors:
Michael Thomas Ballas, Gary Joseph Ballas
Abstract: A compression device for applying compression to an extremity of a mammal includes a cuff adapted to be placed around and secured to the extremity. A control and tensioning unit is attached to the cuff and is operable to control a tension of the cuff to thereby control the compression applied to the extremity. The cuff may further include a bladder system, in which case the compression device further includes a hydraulic pump that is operable to transfer fluid within the bladder system to control the compression applied to the extremity.
Type:
Application
Filed:
September 6, 2011
Publication date:
March 15, 2012
Applicant:
EPOCH MEDICAL INNOVATIONS, INC.
Inventors:
MICHAEL THOMAS BALLAS, GARY JOSEPH BALLAS, EDWARD BERMAN, THOMAS E. UDD, CAREY M. GOLDEN, NICHOLAS LOCKEN