Abstract: Evacuation devices for evacuating the socket of a prosthetic limb, and prosthetic limb systems employing such vacuum devices. The evacuation devices each preferably include at least an electrically powered vacuum pump and a power source. Such evacuation devices can be attached at various locations on or in a prosthetic limb. Because the electrically powered pump does not require manual manipulation to create vacuum, it is substantially easier to use than a manual pump. Due to the small size and small power source required by such an electrically powered pump, an evacuation device may be readily incorporated into a prosthesis.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
June 12, 2006
Date of Patent:
May 24, 2011
Assignee:
The Ohio Williow Wood Company
Inventors:
Wilbur A. Haines, James M. Colvin, Michael L. Haynes, Christopher T. Kelley, Mark W. Ford, Mark W. Groves, Jeffrey A. Denune