Abstract: The invention in some embodiments relates to systems and methods of loading fluid in a prosthetic knee. A vacuum fill technique is utilized in one embodiment to load magnetorheological fluid within small gaps in a chamber of a prosthetic knee. Advantageously, this allows for an efficient loading scheme thereby desirably allowing for faster manufacturing speed. Another advantage is that the magnetorheological fluid is substantially uniformly distributed within the small gaps thereby desirably providing consistent production.
Abstract: The present invention relates in one embodiment to magnetorheological fluids utilized in prosthetic joints in general and, in particular, to magnetorheological fluids utilized in controllable braking systems for prosthetic knee joints. Preferred magnetorheological fluids of the present invention comprises polarizable iron particles, a carrier fluid, and optionally an additive. Preferred additives include, but are not limited to functionalized carrier fluids as well as derivatized fluoropolymers. Preferred carrier fluids include, but are not limited, to perfluorinated polyethers.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
November 25, 2003
Date of Patent:
September 5, 2006
Assignee:
Ossur Engineering, Inc.
Inventors:
Henry Hsu, Charles R. Bisbee, III, Michael Lars Palmer, Ronald J. Lukasiewicz, Michael W. Lindsay, Stephen W. Prince
Abstract: In one embodiment, an impact and torque-absorbing module for a low profile lower limb prosthesis comprises two support members telescopingly engaged to permit axial and rotational motion therebetween. A resilient element resists axial displacement of the two support members, and a torque resisting cuff resists rotational displacement of the two support members. Precompression of the resilient element can reduce the size of the shock module making it more compact. The resilient element can also be replaced allowing adjustment of the shock absorption.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
September 30, 2003
Date of Patent:
November 29, 2005
Assignee:
Ossur Engineering, Inc.
Inventors:
Christophe Guy Lecomte, Heidrun Gigja Ragnarsdottir