Socket Holder Patents (Class 623/33)
  • Patent number: 11938043
    Abstract: A unibody transtibial prosthetic device includes a socket personalized for a specific patient's residual limb. A pylon extends from the socket, the pylon being a unitary polymer structure of interconnected elongated supports having open spaces therebetween. The device also includes a foot-ankle complex, the foot-ankle complex being a unitary polymer extending from the pylon, the foot and ankle unitary structure being shaped to provide multi-axial dynamic flex to enable dorsiflexion, plantar flexion, inversion and eversion motion for smooth symmetric gait performance and energy capture and return. The socket, pylon and foot-ankle complex are portions of a unibody.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2022
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2024
    Assignee: The Regents of the University of California
    Inventors: Joshua Pelz, Luca De Vivo, Falko Kuester, Herbert J. Barrack
  • Patent number: 11932332
    Abstract: An example robot includes a first actuator and a second actuator connecting a first portion of a first member of the robot to a second member of the robot. Extension of the first actuator accompanied by retraction of the second actuator causes the first member to roll in a first roll direction. Retraction of the first actuator accompanied by extension of the second actuator causes the first member to roll in a second roll direction. A third actuator connects a second portion of the first member to the second member. Extension of the third actuator accompanied by retraction of both the first and second actuators causes the first member to pitch in a first pitch direction. Retraction of the third actuator accompanied by extension of both the first and second actuators causes the first member to pitch in a second pitch direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2021
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2024
    Assignee: Boston Dynamics, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher Everett Thorne, John Aaron Saunders, Marco da Silva, Thomas H. Miller, Alexander Douglas Perkins
  • Patent number: 11869380
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are prosthesis simulator devices comprising a first restraint configured to restrain one or more fingers of a wearer of the simulator, a second restraint configured to restrain a thumb of the wearer, and a plurality of artificial digits configured to move in a manner to simulate one or more prosthetic fingers and a prosthetic thumb of a prosthesis. The first restraint can be attached to a roof plate connected to a base plate and defining a dorsal side of the prosthesis simulator. The second restraint can be attached to a holster connected to the base plate on a palmar side of the prosthesis simulator. Also disclosed herein are methods of using the same.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2021
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2024
    Assignee: Georgia Tech Research Corporation
    Inventors: Bennett Leonard Alterman, William D. Hendrix, John T. Johnson, Perry J. Lee, Lewis A. Wheaton
  • Patent number: 11801154
    Abstract: An adjustable socket system includes first and second shell components and first and second longitudinal supports connected to a base. The socket system is movable between an open configuration to loosen the fit of the socket system, and a closed configuration to secure the fit of the socket system on residual limb received therein. A tightening system includes a tensioning unit having a handle defining a moment arm rotatable about a rotation axis, and a tensioning element operatively coupled to the handle via a movable connection point located and protected between the first shell component and the first support and to the shell components via a control point. Rotation of the handle displaces the movable connection point and the tensioning element relative to the control point to move the socket system to the closed configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2021
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2023
    Assignee: OSSUR ICELAND EHF
    Inventors: Andrew Bache, Martin Lund Storup, Alexander Johonnuson, Andri Orrason, Gudmundur Karason
  • Patent number: 11707400
    Abstract: A wearable device is disclosed. The wearable device may process a state variable defined based on motion information of a user, determine an interactive mode of the wearable device based on a gain associated with a magnitude of a torque of the wearable device, select a motion type from among motion types of the determined interactive mode based on a gait parameter of the user, determine a control factor for the torque based on the selected motion type, and generate the torque based on the processed state variable, the gain, and the determined control factor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2020
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2023
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Bokman Lim, Youn Baek Lee, Jongwon Lee, Jusuk Lee
  • Patent number: 11672678
    Abstract: A socket for engaging a residual limb includes a plurality of hard counters, each configured to engage the residual limb at defined “go points”. The go points can bear pressure without discomfort or impeding range of motion. The counters are further configured to avoid contact with identified “no go” points where excess tissue may inhibit motion or experience irritation upon movement and which include one or more contoured pads to more effectively engage the bony prominences of the limb without inhibiting motion. A chassis from which each of the counters may flexibly depend connects the residual limb mechanically to a limb extension. A lacing system alternately intersects the counters and terminates in a tensioning reel. Rotation of the tensioning reel in a first direction will draw the laces over each of the counters such that the tensioned laces will draw counters together to engage the residual limb.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2020
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2023
    Assignee: Stumpworx LLC
    Inventors: Jonathan Kuniholm, Zachary Meyer
  • Patent number: 11497629
    Abstract: An implant assembly for a long bone having a longitudinal axis. The implant assembly has a stem that is received in a surgically prepared medullary canal of the long bone. The stem defines at least one transverse through-opening that extends through the stem from a first portion of the outer surface of the stem to an opposed second portion of the outer surface of the stem. Each transverse through-opening has a central axis that is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the stem. Each transverse through-opening receives a fastener and has a longitudinal dimension, measured relative to the longitudinal axis of the stem, that is sufficient to permit axial movement, relative to the longitudinal axis of the stem, of the stem relative to each fastener.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2022
    Assignee: UNIVERSITY OF UTAH RESEARCH FOUNDATION
    Inventors: Alex Drew, Kent Bachus, Erik Kubiak, Robert Tashjian, Heath Henniger
  • Patent number: 11395748
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are devices, systems, and methods for measuring socket fit in lower limb prostheses and detecting motion of a residual limb relative to a prosthetic socket. Also disclosed herein are methods for developing a socket-fit detection system for sock management that can be applied to adjustable socket systems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2018
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2022
    Assignee: United States Government as Represented by the Department of Veterans Affairs
    Inventors: John Ferguson, Gregory Owen Voss, Stuart Richard Fairhurst, Andrew Hansen
  • Patent number: 11382775
    Abstract: An adjustable prosthesis system for a residual limb includes: an adjustable outer shell surrounding the residual limb having a plurality of overlapping flaps, a top opening along a top edge extending around the outer shell, a bottom having a bottom edge opposite the top edge and extending around the bottom, a first side, and a second side having an adjustable width, and a plurality of adjustable overlapping side ends, some of which overlap and some do not, extending from the top edge to the bottom edge; a base adjacent the bottom of the outer shell and connected to it; and a closure component attached to the outer shell to compress the residual limb. Tightening the closure component applies a pulling force to at least one of the first side and the second side, thereby causing a reduction in width of a discontinuity and increased overlap of the side ends.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2020
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2022
    Assignee: iFit Prosthetics, LLC
    Inventor: Timothy R. Dillingham
  • Patent number: 11382773
    Abstract: In a powered actuator for supplying torque, joint equilibrium, and/or impedance to a joint, a motor is directly coupled to a low-reduction ratio transmission, e.g., a transmission having a gear ratio less than about 80 to 1. The motor has a low dissipation constant, e.g., less than about 50 W/(Nm)2. The transmission is serially connected to an elastic element that is also coupled to the joint, thereby supplying torque, joint equilibrium, and/or impedance to the joint while minimizing the power consumption and/or acoustic noise of the actuator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2018
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2022
    Assignee: Otto Bock Healthcare LP
    Inventors: Hugh Miller Herr, Jeff Anthony Weber, Richard James Casler, Jr.
  • Patent number: 11351044
    Abstract: An adjustable prosthetic socket includes proximal and distal ends and an axis extending between the proximal and distal ends. A distal base is adapted to support a distal portion of a residual limb and is located at the distal end of the socket. First and second spines extend upward from the distal base that define at least part of a circumference of the socket about the axis. A proximal support is connected to the second spine and arranged to distribute pressure from the second spine over a portion of the residual limb. A tensioning system is operatively connected to the first and second spines and arranged to selectively adjust the circumference of the socket. The tensioning system includes a dial tensioner connected to the first spine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2019
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2022
    Assignee: OSSUR HF
    Inventor: Andrew Bache
  • Patent number: 11304830
    Abstract: A prosthetic apparatus and system for a trans-tibial amputee consisting of a post-operative interface socket that can be adjusted to accommodate the size of an amputated limb and changes in size of the limb. The prosthetic apparatus includes a lower socket into which the post-operative socket can be inserted, the lower socket being adjustable for changes in size of the post-operative interface socket. The post-operative socket also has a removable upper back shell that immobilizes movement of the knee during an initial recovery phase but can be removed to allow the knee of the amputee to flex.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2018
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2022
    Inventor: Robert Brown
  • Patent number: 11266515
    Abstract: A method of forming a stump socket is disclosed. The method includes obtaining a stump casting, obtaining a socket adaptor, positioning the socket adaptor on a distal end of the stump casting, and applying a binder material to encapsulate the socket adaptor. A socket adaptor may have a main body and multiple flanges. Each of the flanges may have a proximal end and a distal end. The proximal end may pivotably connect to the main body. Accordingly, pivoting of the flanges with respect to the main body may enable the socket adaptor to better and more easily conform to the stump casting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2020
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2022
    Inventor: Vladimir Radzinsky
  • Patent number: 11224526
    Abstract: A prosthetic liner for use with a prosthetic socket that has a thermoplastic elastomeric (TPE) layer that is in contact with the amputee's residual limb. The TPE layer is not uniform in thickness but has ridges to extend circumferentially around the TPE layer. A fabric exterior layer covers the outer surface of the TPE layer conforming to the ridges and is used as a substrate to form a mechanical bond to an elastomeric material. Impregnating the elastomeric material within the fabric exterior occurs by applying an uncured material to the fabric exterior layer and onto at least the apex surfaces located within the sealing regions thereby creating an air tight boundary layer when inserted into a socket. When a vacuum is applied the air is evacuated from the volume below the seal layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2019
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2022
    Inventors: Aldo Laghi, Nathaniel Vint
  • Patent number: 11185428
    Abstract: A fixation assembly for attaching a prosthetic leg and foot combination directly to an external ring fixation assembly via a protective socket, and yet allow full adjustment of length and offset, protection of the residual stump when in use, and quick-disconnect of the socket when not in use. The device is meant for use with any existing external fixation ring assembly for fixation to a femur or tibia, and any prosthetic leg/foot combination. The fixation assembly generally includes a molded concave socket having a mounting base at its apex for mounting the prosthetic leg/foot, an articulating ring adjustably attached to the socket, and a plurality of struts there between. Each strut has a first locking pivot joint at one end pivotally attached to the articulating ring and a second locking pivot joint at an opposing end pivotally attached to the rim of the socket. The articulating ring is removably attached to the external ring fixation assembly by a plurality of detent pins for releasable attachment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2021
    Assignee: POST-OP INNOVATIONS, INC.
    Inventors: Dennis G. Haun, Johnnie Loveday, Christopher Bibbo
  • Patent number: 11179252
    Abstract: A prosthetic liner for use with a prosthetic socket that has a thermoplastic elastomeric (TPE) layer that is in contact with the amputee's residual limb. The TPE layer is not uniform in thickness but has ridges to extend circumferentially around the TPE layer. A fabric layer covers the outer surface of the TPE layer conforming to the ridges and is used as a substrate to form a mechanical bond to an outer seal layer. The outer seal layer is formed by applying an uncured material to the fabric around the ridges thereby creating an air tight boundary layer when inserted into a socket. When vacuum is applied the air is evacuated from the volume below the seal layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2021
    Assignee: Alps South Europe, S.R.O.
    Inventors: Aldo Laghi, Nathaniel Vint
  • Patent number: 11160498
    Abstract: A device and method for measuring prosthetic or orthotic slip is presented. An optical sensor device is attached to the prosthesis or orthosis and measures the amount of relative motion between the prosthetic socket and the residual limb surface or between the orthosis and the affected body part. The sensor device is comprised of an optical sensor, a light source, a processing unit and a power source contained within a housing. A system for measuring multidirectional prosthetic or orthotic slip using the sensor device and automatically adjusting the fit of the prosthetic based on a determined threshold is also presented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2021
    Assignee: University of South Florida
    Inventors: Matthew Michael Wernke, Samuel Lon Phillips, Derek James Lura, Stephanie Lutton Carey, Rajiv V. Dubey
  • Patent number: 11116649
    Abstract: Embodiments herein relate to socket liners for prosthetic systems and prosthetic systems including the same. In an embodiment, a socket liner for a prosthetic system is included having a polymeric wall member defining an interior volume. The polymeric wall member having an inner surface bordering the interior volume and an outer surface. The polymeric wall member can include an anterior side, a posterior side, a first lateral side and a second lateral side the second lateral side opposite the first lateral side. A plurality of horizontal ridges can be disposed on the inner surface of the polymeric wall member on the first lateral side and the second lateral side. A plurality of vertical channels can be disposed on the inner surface of the polymeric wall member on the anterior side and the posterior side. Other embodiments are also included herein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2021
    Assignee: NETTwork Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventor: Carl A. Caspers
  • Patent number: 11058560
    Abstract: A connector apparatus for securing a liner disposed around a residual limb of a user to a distal prosthetic member is provided. The apparatus includes a body member having a roller rotatably mounted to a side wall in a slot in the body member, a socket disposed around the body member and having an opening aligned with the slot of the body member, and a strap having a first end coupled to the liner. The socket facilitates attachment of the distal prosthetic member to the body member. The strap extends through the slot in the body member against the first roller and through the opening in the socket. The strap continues to extend along an exterior surface of the socket and is attached to itself, thereby securing the liner to the distal prosthetic member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2020
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2021
    Inventor: Johan Michael Smith
  • Patent number: 11058562
    Abstract: A prosthetic socket, comprising a base for distal connection means for attaching a prosthesis component to the prosthetic socket and comprising at least one side wall, which extends from the base in the proximal direction and at least partially extends around a stump to be held in the prosthetic socket, and at least one support for fastening the side wall to the base being arranged on the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2021
    Assignee: OTTO BOCK HEALTHCARE PRODUCTS GMBH
    Inventors: Roland Pawlik, Johan Nieuwendijk
  • Patent number: 11020251
    Abstract: Apparatus is provided to cushion between a prosthetic socket and an amputee's residual limb. A plurality of putty-filled packets are assembled into a liner that, when assembled, provides a generally smooth contact surface toward the residual limb. At least one of the packets has a fluid bladder positioned between the putty material and the socket, and the fluid volume in the bladder can be adjusted to affect the fit of the assembly on the residual limb. Methods of fabrication, fitting, and use of such prosthetic devices are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2021
    Inventor: Van L Phillips
  • Patent number: 10918502
    Abstract: Prosthesis devices can include sockets having adjustable features. In one example, a socket includes one or more panels that can move outwardly or inwardly relative to a receptacle portion of the socket. The panels can be moved by tightening a tensioning line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2018
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2021
    Assignee: Click Holdings, LLC
    Inventor: Joseph A. Mahon
  • Patent number: 10912662
    Abstract: Disclosed is a prosthesis for a person with an amputation below the elbow to provide a replacement for at least a lower arm of the person. The prosthesis includes a receiving sleeve adapted to be attached to a stump of the person such that the stump can move the receiving sleeve. An electromechanical hand is attached to the receiving sleeve, the electromechanical hand having a rotary mechanism, a control unit, at least one finger and at least one motor. The rotary mechanism includes a potentiometer having a shaft in communication with the receiving sleeve such that a displacement of the receiving sleeve causes a corresponding rotation of the shaft of the potentiometer. The control unit is configured to measure the corresponding rotation of the shaft of the potentiometer and send a signal to the at least one motor to actuate the at least one finger.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2018
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2021
    Assignee: BIONICARM LTD.
    Inventors: Aleh Haltseu, Siarhei Arefyeu, Illia Darashenka, Viktar Farber
  • Patent number: 10905559
    Abstract: A method of implanting a joint prosthesis assembly for joint arthroplasty using a coupling mechanism is disclosed. The method includes exposing a joint of a patient, resecting a portion of the joint, inserting a second prosthesis of the joint prosthesis assembly into a medullary canal, and inserting a first prosthesis of the joint prosthesis assembly from a lateral side of the joint. The joint prosthesis assembly includes a magnet. The magnet is configured to lock the first prosthesis of the joint prosthesis assembly to the second prosthesis of the joint prosthesis assembly. The first prosthesis of the joint prosthesis assembly includes a recess. The second prosthesis of the joint prosthesis assembly includes a protrusion. The recess is configured to house the protrusion. Alternatively, the first prosthesis and the second prosthesis may be assembled in a direct line using the magnet for secure coupling of the components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2021
    Assignee: Magnetic Joints LLC
    Inventors: Brandi Huang, Jerry Huang
  • Patent number: 10806607
    Abstract: An adjustable socket system includes a base, longitudinal supports connected to the base and extending along a longitudinal axis, and shell components operatively connected to the longitudinal supports and defining a receiving volume adapted to receive a residual limb. The adjustable socket system is radially expandable between open and closed configurations. The shell components include a first shell component having distal and proximal parts that are longitudinally displaceable with respect to one another such that a length of the first shell component is adjustable between a first length and a second length different than the first length.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2018
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2020
    Assignee: OSSUR ICELAND EHF
    Inventors: Marco Steinberg, Dadi Granz, Andrew Bache, Dana Marlin, Linda Ros Birgisdottir
  • Patent number: 10806608
    Abstract: A method of placing a prosthetic system over a residual limb, said method comprising the steps of: providing the prosthetic system; and placing an outer shell of the prosthetic system on the residual limb having an above-knee amputation, the outer shell at least partially surrounds the residual limb, an outer side and an inner side of the outer shell on opposite sides of the residual limb, an upper edge of the outer side above a greater trochanter, the inner side below a lowest edge of an ischium without being directly below the lowest edge of the ischium.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2018
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2020
    Assignee: iFit Prosthetics, LLC
    Inventor: Timothy R. Dillingham
  • Patent number: 10568750
    Abstract: The present disclosure illustrates a prosthetic foot that may reduce snagging on external obstacles. In some embodiments, a prosthetic foot includes a symmetric wear member that is rotatable to allow a user to alter an orientation of the symmetric wear member for even wear. A cuff may couple to the symmetric wear member, and include the proximal end comprising a receptacle with an opening having an adjustable diameter. The receptacle may be sized and shaped to receive and selectively retain the prosthesis pylon by adjusting the diameter of the opening. The prosthetic foot may further include a vertical adjustment mechanism that selectively alters a depth of the receptacle of the cuff to vertically displace the prosthesis pylon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2020
    Assignee: Kenneth B. Spencer
    Inventor: Kenneth B. Spencer
  • Patent number: 10517746
    Abstract: A system for joining a limb liner to a prosthesis. The prosthesis has a socket that is joined to the remainder of the prosthesis using a hub assembly. The hub assembly includes a first hub and a second hub. The first hub is disposed within the interior of the socket. The second hub is disposed outside the interior of the socket. An air conduit extends through the hub assembly that enables air to be drawn into the socket and/or vented from the socket. An inflatable interface is disposed within the socket. The inflatable interface receives air through the air conduit in the hub assembly. The inflatable interface is capable of filling any gaps that may exist between a limb liner being worn by an amputee and the socket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2019
    Assignee: Comfort Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Frederick S. Bernhardt, Peter V. Panuncialman
  • Patent number: 10485679
    Abstract: A fixation assembly for attaching a prosthetic leg and foot combination directly to an external ring fixation assembly via a protective socket, and yet allow full adjustment of length and offset, protection of the residual stump when in use, and quick-disconnect of the socket when not in use. The device is meant for use with any existing external fixation ring assembly for fixation to a femur or tibia, and any prosthetic leg/foot combination. The fixation assembly generally includes a molded concave socket having a mounting base at its apex for mounting the prosthetic leg/foot, an articulating ring adjustably attached to the socket, and a plurality of struts there between. Each strut has a first locking pivot joint at one end pivotally attached to the articulating ring and a second locking pivot joint at an opposing end pivotally attached to the rim of the socket. The articulating ring is removably attached to the external ring fixation assembly by a plurality of detent pins for releasable attachment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2019
    Assignee: Post-Op Innovations, Inc.
    Inventors: Dennis G. Haun, Johnnie Loveday, Christopher Bibbo
  • Patent number: 10188531
    Abstract: A socket to interface a lower limb which has undergone amputation and a modular element, includes a proximal portion allowing the lower limb that has undergone amputation to be inserted; a distal portion allowing the modular element to be fastened; an internal deformable layer made of silicone rubber, designed to be in contact with the lower limb that has undergone amputation; an external deformable layer made of silicone rubber; a structure made of rigid material arranged between the internal layer and the external layer, comprising at least two posts, each post extending substantially axially from a base on the distal side towards an end on the proximal side, the ends of the various posts being not linked, so as to separate from or approach each other due to the effect of deformation of the internal layer and of the external layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2019
    Assignee: POMMIER ORTHOPEDIE
    Inventor: Pascal Pommier
  • Patent number: 10179056
    Abstract: An intra-frame positioning sling may be disposed internally within a prosthetic socket frame. The sling may include one or more proximal suspension portions adapted to suspend from a proximal aspect of the frame and a tensioning system. The sling may include a first longitudinal side with one or more proximal suspension portions and an opposite longitudinal side that includes the residual limb interfacing or force application portion of the sling. When the tensioning system is tensioned, the sling is pulled toward the first longitudinal side of the prosthetic socket frame. A set of two positioning slings may be rigged in a transfemoral prosthetic socket frame; one sling applies force on a medial side of a hosted residual limb, and the other sling applies force on the lateral side.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2019
    Assignee: LIM Innovations, Inc.
    Inventors: Garrett Ray Hurley, Juan Jacobo Cespedes, Jesse Robert Williams, Preston Fung, Monica Ha
  • Patent number: 9987150
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to prosthetic device for attaching a mechanical limb to a user. The prosthetic device includes a liner, a prosthetic socket worn over the liner and an attachment mechanism. The attachment mechanism includes a belt that is guided over rollers coupled to the outside of the socket. A portion of the belt passes from the outer surface of the socket to the inner surface of the prosthetic socket to contact and matingly engage the liner, thereby fixing the position of the prosthetic socket with respect to the liner and the users limb.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2018
    Assignee: Advanced Suspension Systems, LLC
    Inventor: Arthur M. Bremer
  • Patent number: 9956094
    Abstract: Prosthesis devices can include sockets having adjustable features. In one example, a socket includes one or more panels that can move outwardly or inwardly relative to a receptacle portion of the socket. The panels can be moved by tightening a tensioning line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2018
    Assignee: Click Holdings, LLC
    Inventor: Joseph A. Mahon
  • Patent number: 9872782
    Abstract: In a powered actuator for supplying torque, joint equilibrium, and/or impedance to a joint, a motor is directly coupled to a low-reduction ratio transmission, e.g., a transmission having a gear ratio less than about 80 to 1. The motor has a low dissipation constant, e.g., less than about 50 W/(Nm)2. The transmission is serially connected to an elastic element that is also coupled to the joint, thereby supplying torque, joint equilibrium, and/or impedance to the joint while minimizing the power consumption and/or acoustic noise of the actuator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2018
    Assignee: BIONX MEDICAL TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventors: Hugh Miller Herr, Jeff Anthony Weber, Richard James Casler
  • Patent number: 9855154
    Abstract: A post-operative residual limb support assembly includes an upper frame configured to extend about at least a portion of a residual limb; and a lower frame coupled to the upper frame and configured to receive an end of the residual limb. The upper frame and the lower frame are adjustable relative to one another in at least one of a linear and rotational manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2018
    Assignee: Hanger, Inc.
    Inventors: Stacey A. Whiteside, Steven D. Miller
  • Patent number: 9757256
    Abstract: 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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2017
    Assignee: OSSUR HF
    Inventor: David Sandahl
  • Patent number: 9585770
    Abstract: An orthotic device is disclosed. The orthotic device may be adapted to be attached to a limb to enable the limb to replicate normal motion so that the user regains substantially normal operation of the limb. The orthotic device may have a frame system formed of a lightweight supportive material and configured to receive the user's limb, and an electronically actuated muscle operatively connected to the frame system for expanding and contracting at predetermined levels to mimic movement of the limb, when functioning normally. The orthotic device may also have a controller operatively connected to the muscle for transmitting signals corresponding to the predetermined levels to the muscle, and a sensor controlled by the user for actuating the muscle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2017
    Inventors: George Robert Simmons, III, Michael T. McDonnell, Jr., Bryn Garrity, Michael Huber, Michael Ciavarella
  • Patent number: 9492292
    Abstract: A prosthetic component centering block (10) for mounting and adjustably centering a socket to a prosthetic leg, and for establishing and maintaining proper flexion and offset there between. The centering block (I0) comprises a solid member defined by an upper surface, lower surface, and surrounding sides. Both the upper surface and lower surface define an elongated geometric shape extending from a front end to a rear end, and the upper surface is inclined front-to-rear at a pre-determined flexion angle ? relative to said lower surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2016
    Inventor: H. Lee Mantelmacher
  • Patent number: 9408726
    Abstract: 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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2016
    Assignee: THE OHIO WILLOW WOOD COMPANY
    Inventors: Larry Gail Rowe, Jr., Lonnie LaVern Nolt, Jeffrey L. Doddroe, Jeffrey A. Denune
  • Patent number: 9364347
    Abstract: A prosthetic liner having a base elastic fabric layer impregnated with cushioning material on an interior surface of the base fabric layer and having one or more additional elastic fabric layers secured to and overlapping the base fabric layer to form pockets for introducing and retaining various types of padding selected by the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2016
    Inventors: Aldo A. Laghi, Ronald A. Christaldi
  • Patent number: 9308103
    Abstract: The invention includes an osseointegrated mount and electrical connector, suitable for providing neural control and sensory feedback for an advanced prosthetic limb. The device provides a channel in which a lead wire from the peripheral nerve interface can travel from the electrical connector down the side of the device or within the device to limit potential sites of infection to a single transcutaneous breach. The channel allows for a silicone barrier to be installed between the internal and external components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2016
    Inventors: David T. Kluger, David J. Warren, Gregory A. Clark, Kent N. Bachus
  • Patent number: 9198779
    Abstract: A lever-actuated distal lock connects a limb liner to a prosthetic leg or arm hard socket. In some versions, air-sealing capability may limit/prevent air flow through the distal lock, even with vacuum inside the socket. To unlatch the lock, a lever is swung to pull a sliding shaft outward in the lock housing. Swung in the opposite direction, the lever releases the sliding shaft to be biased to a latched position wherein slanted surfaces of the shaft inner end and a liner pin cooperate to allow the pin to slide down into, but not up out of, the lock. In some versions, the shaft inner end slides relative to, but is biased away from, the shaft opposite end, so that the inner end moves out of the way of the downwardly-sliding pin, without moving the entire lock shaft and without disrupting the optional air seal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2015
    Assignee: COYOTE DESIGN AND MANUFACTURING, INC.
    Inventors: Matt Perkins, Travis Dean
  • Patent number: 9173438
    Abstract: The invention relates to a shin guard system for sporting activities that have a shin guard portion and a reusable elastic rash and odor preventing insert attached thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2015
    Inventor: Annie Morgan Blumenfeld
  • Patent number: 9072611
    Abstract: 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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2015
    Assignee: OSSUR AMERICAS, INC.
    Inventor: Craig MacKenzie
  • Patent number: 9032606
    Abstract: Systems and methods for personalizing prosthetic and orthotic devices are disclosed. In some embodiments, a method of personalizing a portion of a device configured to be worn by a wearer as at least one of a prosthetic or an orthosis may include facilitating an application of a wearer-selected artwork to the portion of the device. For example, in various specific embodiments, the facilitating an application of a wearer-selected artwork to the portion of the device may include creating a portion of material having a wearer-specified personalization artwork, and providing the portion of material having the wearer-specified personalization artwork to at least one of the wearer or a third party for application onto the portion of the device. In some embodiments, the portion of material may be provided to at least one of the wearer or a third party for application when the portion of the device is being fabricated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2015
    Inventor: Dan Horkey
  • Publication number: 20150119997
    Abstract: 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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 24, 2014
    Publication date: April 30, 2015
    Inventor: Keith D. Cornell
  • Publication number: 20150112449
    Abstract: A prosthesis for a residual limb includes an element for receiving a stump fitted on or established by a support part, a distal prosthetic part, and an absorbing system. The distal prosthetic part is assembled on the support part by a pivot link forming a joint to enable flexion or extension of the distal prosthetic part with respect to the element for receiving. The absorbing system absorbs the flexion or extension efforts and is connected to the distal prosthetic part and to one of a rod or a lever that is pivotally fitted on the distal prosthetic device. The rod is mounted to the lever and to the support part.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 27, 2014
    Publication date: April 23, 2015
    Applicant: OTTO BOCK HEALTHCARE GMBH
    Inventor: Pierre CHABLOZ
  • Patent number: 9011553
    Abstract: A flexible laminate formed from at least a first layer comprising a first flexible elastomer and a second layer comprising a second flexible elastomer, which are connected to one another by an intermediate layer. The intermediate layer comprises parylene and is applied to the first layer such that the intermediate layer has an irregular surface with irregularities. The second flexible elastomer or an adhesive connected to the second layer is applied in liquid form to the intermediate layer such that the irregularities the intermediate layer are at least partially filled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2015
    Assignee: Otto Bock Healthcare GmbH
    Inventor: Dionys Dornieden
  • Publication number: 20150105865
    Abstract: A residual limb prosthesis includes a socket for receiving a residual limb, the socket having a socket wall defining a limb-receiving surface. A coil-shaped channel extends through the socket wall from an inlet to an outlet, the outlet fluidly communicating with the ambient atmosphere. An air mover fluidly communicates with the inlet and the ambient atmosphere outside of the socket wall, the air mover drawing air from the ambient atmosphere and circulating the air through the coil-shaped channel to be exhausted at said outlet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 10, 2014
    Publication date: April 16, 2015
    Inventors: Brian Lawton Davis, Christina Marie Webber
  • Publication number: 20150081038
    Abstract: A prosthetic device for a lower limb of a user is provided which includes a femoral leg component, a foot component and a cover component which are water compatible. The cover component includes one or more hollow sleeves defining one or more cavities in communication with a cavity provided in the foot component. The foot compartment includes a hole overlapping the one or more hollow sleeves which is configured to evacuate water from the prosthetic device and to provide air communication between the one or more cavities and the exterior of the prosthetic device. The cover includes a flexible venting opening so that the water drains naturally from the one or more cavities. A method of manufacturing the prosthetic device is also provided. The method includes manufacturing a cover with successive layers forming the cavities, with the cavities configured such that water drains naturally from the prosthetic device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 18, 2013
    Publication date: March 19, 2015
    Inventor: Frederic Rauch