Abstract: A provisional prosthetic system and the surgical methods for utilizing the same. In one embodiment, the provisional prosthetic system includes a keel and a plate configured to be secured to the keel. The keel may further include a body and at least one fin extending outwardly therefrom. The fin functions to prevent rotation of the keel once it is implanted within a bone. In one embodiment, the plate includes a captured screw having a flanged head and external threads. The captured screw is retained by the plate and configured to secure the plate to the keel. In this embodiment, the captured screw extends through an aperture in the plate. Further, the captured screw may be retained by the plate due to the interaction of the flange head and external threads of the captured screw with the top and bottom surfaces of the plate, respectively.

Abstract: A computerized prosthesis alignment system includes a transducer that can measure socket reactions in the anterior/posterior plane and the right/left planes, while canceling or reducing the transverse forces on the measurements of these socket reactions. In addition, the transducer is also capable of determining the axial load or weight experienced by the prosthesis. The computerized prosthesis alignment system is in communication with a host computer. The moment data from the transducer is interpreted by the user via a computer interface. The host computer includes memory for storing one or more applications. These applications receive data from the transducer, interpret the data with discrete algebraic or fuzzy logic algorithms, and display the output numerically and graphically. Applications may also interpret the data to provide analyses to the user for aligning the prosthesis.

Abstract: This invention relates to a system and methods for relieving phantomlimb pain in amputees, and for providing an amputee with sensory feedback from a prosthetic limb. The system employs implantable multichannel, multi-chambered interface structures, namely, nerve cuffs. The implanted nerve cuffs have electrodes which transmit electrical signals generated by a signal generator to nerves, recruiting certain neurons to send sensory signals to the cerebral cortex, suggesting sensory sensations to the amputee. Such signals can arise directly from the signal generator, approximating the train of signals seen by the cortex in a normally innervated limb, or can originate from sensors in a prosthetic limb.

Abstract: A quick-release tube clamp and method therefor for locking and releasing a prosthetic pylon/foot component from the socket. The quick-release tube clamp includes a tubular portion, an annular socket portion, and a clamp portion. The tubular portion has a formed slot along a longitudinal length of the tubular portion. The tubular portion forms a cylindrical opening with an inner diameter slightly larger than the outer diameter of the tubular pylon. The annular socket at the upper end of the tubular portion attaches to the socket of the modular lower limb prosthetic system. The clamp portion is located near the lower end of the tubular portion and firmly locks the tubular portion around the tubular pylon when the tubular pylon is inserted into the tubular position and provides a releasing position for removal of the tubular pylon.

Abstract: A quadriceps control device comprises an elongated, elastic member having a first end affixed at an anterior position above the knee and a second end affixed at an anterior position below the knee of the user. The quadriceps control device may be utilized with a prosthetic or orthotic leg assembly. The quadriceps control device mimics to some degree the quadriceps muscle group in human anatomy, to thereby enhance the ability of a user of a prosthetic or orthotic leg assembly to control knee extension and flexion.

Abstract: Soft, tear resistant gel, gel composites and gel articles for various uses formed from one or a mixture of two or more block copolymers with or without one or more selected other polymers and additives in combination with one or more selected plasticizers being in sufficient amounts to achieve a gel rigidity of from about 20 gram Bloom to about 1,800 gram Bloom.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a system with modular components for forming a prosthetic limb, wherein the effective length of the limb is adjustable to accommodate changing needs of a particular person. Several modular components are provided, including sleeve and spacer modules. Each sleeve module has a body with a selected length and has two opposed ends that are internally threaded. Each spacer module has a body of a selected length and has two opposed ends that are externally threaded. The modules are usable with existing prosthetic components have respective mating ends. The modules are twistable with respect to each other, which enables the effective length of the prosthetic limb to be adjusted. Further, the modules can be interchanged with modules having a different length, which enables large adjustment capabilities. A fully custom fitted prosthetic limb is therefore achievable without the need to custom make a single component.

Abstract: A vibration-absorbing device for an artificial lower limb includes a knee-connecting tube attached to a prosthetic knee unit, an ankle-connecting member attached to a prosthetic foot and ankle unit, and an upright connecting rod having an upper end disposed movably within the tube, and a lower end connected fixedly to the ankle-connecting member. A coiled compression spring is sleeved on the connecting rod between the knee unit and the foot and ankle unit so as to bias the connecting rod to move downwardly relative to the tube to a predetermined position, thereby retarding movement of the connecting rod in an axial direction of the tube. A cushion member is made of a resilient material, is sleeved on the ankle-connecting member, and is disposed within the tube so as to retard movement of the connecting rod in a transverse direction of the tube.

Abstract: A prosthetic coupling comprising an annular coupling adapter having a coupling end and an opposed pylon mounting end, the coupling end including a central bore adapted to receive, and be coupled to a prosthetic limb pyramid component, where the pylon mounting end includes a diametrically restrictable tube with at least two circumferential discontinuities and an axial depth with a predetermined extension greater than a minimum depth required to adequately secure a prosthetic limb pylon component therein, where the predetermined extension provides the prosthetic coupling height adjustability with respect to the prosthetic limb pylon to which it is adapted to be secured. Such prosthetic couplings may be supplemented with bushings inserted within the pylon mounting end to inhibit further pylon insertion beyond a desired depth.

Abstract: A soft and elastic prosthetic liner blank for customizing to an individual user is formed from thermoplastic material and molded to a hollow, generally rotation symmetric shape having at least one radial dimension. The liner blank has an open proximal end for insertion of the residuum of an amputee's arm or leg and a closed distal end, and the liner blank further having a material composition allowing thermo-forming of the liner blank while maintaining elasticity in the thermally applied shape. The radius of the liner blank is dimensioned to accommodate and to adopt, through plastic deformation, any sectional profile included in the positive copy.

Abstract: An endoprosthesis for below knee amputations includes a socket, a foam-covered pylon, and a prosthetic foot. A prosthetic knee is added for above knee amputations. A plastic sleeve is formed, heated, and stretched until it has a size sufficient to ensleeve the endoprothesis. The plastic sleeve is maintained at that enlarged size and cooled so that the resulting sleeve is substantially inelastic, yet easily deformable and adapted to receive the endoprosthesis. The plastic sleeve is heated in areas where it does not conform exactly to the endoprosthesis until it shrinks and conforms exactly to the endoprosthesis, including the contour of the foam-covered pylon. The plastic sleeve then reveals all of the structural details of the prosthetic foam but does not apply compressive force to the foam. Lines of demarcation therefore do not form at the locations where the foam meets the prosthetic socket, the prosthetic knee, or the prosthetic foot.

Abstract: A device is provided to support and position a limb extremity in a desired steady position to enable acquisition of morphological data from the underside and the upper portion of the limb extremity in a substantially non-weight-bearing attitude. The device comprises a stretchable envelope, made of a thin elastomeric membrane, and a support provided with adjustable positioning members such as hooks, pegs or clips comprising a proximal end and a distal end. The envelope is provided with laterally extending positioning member engaging portions disposed on opposite sides along the longitudinal axis of said envelope. Said positioning member engaging portions receive the distal end of said adjustable positioning members and thereby enable adjustable support and positioning of the envelope and, in turn, of the limb extremity inserted therein.

Abstract: An attenuator apparatus has an outer housing with a first chamber filled with a first fluid, and a bellows member of elastomeric material mounted in the first chamber and having a second chamber filled with a second fluid, the bellows member having a first end facing away from the first chamber. A piston is slidably mounted in the housing at the first end of the bellows member for acting on the bellows member in response to a force applied to the piston so as to expand the bellows member in the first chamber and cushion the force. The bellows member returns to its original configuration and biases the piston back in a second direction opposite to the first direction on removal of the force.

Abstract: The present invention concerns methods for the ex vivo formation of mammalian bone and subsequent uses of the bone. A critical and distinguishing feature of the present invention are defined tissue culture conditions and factors resulting in the formation of bone cell spheroids. The invention also provides for methods of implanting into subjects the ex vivo formed bone. Also described are methods for genetically altering the bone cell spheroids to affect bone formation, identification of candidate modulators of bone formation, and identification of genes involved in bone formation.

Abstract: Improved prosthetic components and a method for assembly therefor are described wherein the prosthesis comprises prefabricated modular components including a socket adapter, shank or pylon, a keel, and a foot. The method for preparation of the improved prosthesis reduces the time required for prosthesis preparation over that of the prior art, and includes the steps of making a cast of the remaining leg stump and forming a socket therefor; placing the socket in an alignment jig; assembling modular pieces including a prefabricated keel, pylon, and socket adapter; attaching the socket adapter to the socket; draping a final coating of copolymer on the prosthesis; and removing the pylon and socket adapter from the interior of the prosthesis.

Abstract: A unilateral or bilateral orthotic or prosthetic device that facilitates reciprocating ambulation by a human user is described. The reciprocating gait orthosis includes a torso vest securely positionable around the torso of the user, at least one torso joint coupled to the torso vest such that the torso joint is approximately adjacent to the user's natural waist, and at least one hip member that couples the torso joint and torso vest to a conventional leg support assembly at the hip joint approximately adjacent the user's natural hip joint. The leg support assembly is adapted to couple to the user's leg or to replace the human user's missing leg to provide the user stable support when the user is in an upright position.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for monitoring aspects of a socket of a prosthetic limb having a residual limb contained therein. The apparatus includes and the method uses sensors for measuring one or more of pressure, force, temperature, moisture, and vacuum and one or more devices for displaying sensor values to the wearer, setting sensor limits, and/or sounding an audible alarm when a sensor limit is exceeded.

Abstract: The invention relates to prostheses for amputated patients. The shaft of the prosthesis (10) consists of an outer shell (11) and a concentric inner shell (11′). Both shells are provided with longitudinal slits (12, 12′) which are staggered in relation to each other and extend essentially in the axial direction. The diameter of the shaft (10) of the prosthesis can be adjusted by means of tightening elements (13, 14). An adapter (20) is fixed in the shaft of the prosthesis (10) in such a way that the height of said adapter can be adjusted. A conical bearing surface for the stump of the limb is provided on the upper side of the adapter (20), a holding element (29) for fixing an artificial limb is provided on the lower side of the same, and a coupling is provided inside the adapter for detachably fixing the coupling pin (41) of a commercially available silicone liner (40).

Abstract: Prosthetic liner formed of a molded silicone elastomer material including an inner wall, a circular outer wall having radii of curvature centered along a first longitudinal axis of external symmetry extending longitudinally centrally within the liner, the inner wall including a circular curved inside anterior wall portion extending along a liner length and having first radii of curvature centered on a second longitudinal axis of anterior curvature extending longitudinally along the liner length and a circular curved inside posterior wall portion having a second radii of curvature centered on a third longitudinal axis of posterior curvature extending along said liner length.

Abstract: A biofidelic lower leg surrogate includes a latex skin containing tissue simulating gelatin and a simulative bone assembly. The bone assembly is defined by a hollow, cylindrical, polymeric tibia body connected to an ankle piece in the shape of a section of a solid cylinder; a pair of heel blocks bonded to each other and to the ankle piece with a triangular bottom opening therebetween defining an arch; a nylon tendon strip mounted in grooves in the bottom of the heel blocks; and a heel pad extending across the bottom of the blocks.

Abstract: An endoprosthesis for below knee amputations includes a socket, a foam-covered pylon, and a prosthetic foot. A prosthetic knee is added for above knee amputations. A plastic sleeve is formed, heated, and stretched until it has a size sufficient to ensleeve the endoprothesis. The plastic sleeve is maintained at that enlarged size and cooled so that the resulting sleeve is substantially inelastic, yet easily deformable and adapted to receive the endoprosthesis. The plastic sleeve is heated in areas where it does not conform exactly to the endoprosthesis until it shrinks and conforms exactly to the endoprosthesis, including the contour of the foam-covered pylon. The plastic sleeve then reveals all of the structural details of the prosthetic foam but does not apply compressive force to the foam. Lines of demarcation therefore do not form at the locations where the foam meets the prosthetic socket, the prosthetic knee, or the prosthetic foot.

Abstract: Lock mechanism for detachable connection of a prosthetic device to a sleeve element carried on the residuum of an amputee, comprising a locking pin (3,30,40,50) connected to the sleeve element and a seat (5) arranged on the prosthetic device, in which seat the locking pin is longitudinally inserted for arresting engagement with an arresting means (11,52). The locking pin (3,30,40,50) is flexible for bending at least in one plane coincident with the longitudinal axis of the locking pin, and is preferably also longitudinally elastic.

Abstract: An endoprosthesis for below knee amputations includes a socket, a foam-covered pylon, and a prosthetic foot. A prosthetic knee is added for above knee amputations. A plastic sleeve is formed, heated, and stretched until it has a size sufficient to ensleeve the endoprothesis. The plastic sleeve is maintained at that enlarged size and cooled so that the resulting sleeve is substantially inelastic and is adapted to receive the endoprosthesis. The plastic sleeve is heated in areas where it does not conform exactly to the endoprosthesis until it shrinks and conforms exactly to the endoprosthesis, including the contour of the foam-covered pylon. The plastic sleeve then reveals all of the structural details of the prosthetic foam but does not apply compressive force to the foam. Lines of demarcation therefore do not form at the locations where the foam meets the prosthetic socket, the prosthetic knee, or the prosthetic foot.

Abstract: The method is used for controlling an actuating mechanism of a prosthesis provided on one side of the lower body of an individual, the individual having a healthy leg on the other side. Accordingly, the method comprises providing a plurality of artificial proprioceptors, at least one of the artificial proprioceptors being on the side of the healthy leg, and at least one of the artificial proprioceptors being on provided with the prosthesis, generating data signals in real time at the artificial proprioceptors, and generating control signals in real time for controlling the actuating mechanism in response to the data signals.

Abstract: A reciprocal gait apparatus for use as an orthotic or prosthetic is disclosed. In one embodiment, the apparatus comprises a torso vest securable about the torso of a patient, a leg support securable on a leg of a patient and a hip joint coupled to and disposed between the torso vest and leg support, and two resilient members respectively disposed substantially anterior and posterior about the hip joint and coupled to the torso vest and leg support. A first resilient member flexes the leg support in a forward direction in response to lifting of said leg support. A second resilient member moves the leg support in a backward direction once the leg support has been substantially flexed in the forward direction along a range of motion for said leg support. Another embodiment of the reciprocal gait apparatus comprise a gear assembly and two belts for implementing reciprocal gait.

Abstract: In one embodiment, an impact-absorbing shock module comprises two pylons telescopingly engaged to permit axial and rotational motion therebetween. A resilient element, preferably a spring-fluid combination, provides axial shock absorption. A tubular torque-resisting cuff provides rotational resistance, or torsion-resistance. A fluid valve is provided so that the fluid pressure may be varied to adjust the torsion resistance. In another embodiment, a shock module comprises two pylons maintained in a colinear alignment via a guide pin attached to the lower pylon. A resilient element provides shock absorption, and a torque-resisting cuff provides torsion-resistance. In another embodiment, a shock module comprises two pylons telescopingly engaged to permit axial motion therebetween. The pylons also have a polygonal interface to prevent relative rotation therebetween.

Abstract: A composite elastic material useful for prosthetic applications is constituted of at least one cured silicone elastomer layer containing silicone oil and hollow microspheres dispersed throughout the elastomer layer. An elasticized fabric layer may be intimately bonded to one side of the silicone elastomer layer and the composite elastic material may be incorporated in various prosthetic appliances, including suction liners and sealing sleeves. When used in a suction liner, the composite elastic material may be molded to provide a thicker anterior wall and a thinner posterior wall with a smooth transition between the anterior and posterior walls. The composite elastic material covered with an elasticized fabric may be used as a sealing sleeve between a prosthetic device and a residual limb. The composite elastic material may contain one or more skin treating agents blended into the silicone elastomer.

Abstract: A prosthetic attachment locking device includes a body and a releasing mechanism. The body has an axial hole that extends from a first surface to an opposing second surface. The body has a first side with a pawl receiving recess that communicates with the axial hole. The releasing mechanism has a central axle with a pawl that is received in the pawl receiving recess. The central axle has a clutch bearing that rotates the pawl in a first direction when an attachment pin is inserted into the axial hole and engages the pawl. The clutch bearing secures the attachment pin in the body and is reversible such that an attachment pin can be inserted from the first surface or the second surface of the body. Because the prosthetic attachment locking device is reversible, the releasing mechanism can be positioned to project toward an interior of a residual limb whether used on a right-side residual limb or a left-side residual limb.

Abstract: An impact-absorbing shock module comprises two pylons telescopingly engaged to permit axial and rotational motion therebetween. A resilient element, such as a spring-fluid combination, a plurality of interconnected disks, or a Belleville spring, provides axial shock absorption. A tubular torque-resisting cuff provides rotational resistance, or torsion-resistance. A fluid valve is optionally provided so that the fluid pressure may be varied to adjust the torsion resistance.

Abstract: A prosthetic foot characterized by an easily exchangeable auxiliary ankle member demountably attached to forefoot and sole portions, which are in turn demountably and interchangeably connected. The forefoot, heel and auxiliary ankle portions are fabricated from polymer impregnated and encapsulated laminates, including such laminates as carbon fibers and/or fiberglass or synthetic fibers such as Kevlar. The easily demountable connection of the auxiliary ankle permits interchangeability thereof to match the activity schedule of the wearer utilizing the prosthetic foot without the necessity of frequent visits to the prosthetist. A compressible member between the forefoot member and the sole member, and function blocks located between the various members provide additional adjustability. The orientation of the auxiliary ankle member and compressible member also allows for increased plantar flexion.

Abstract: A prosthetic foot incorporate a foot keel and a calf shank connected to the foot keel to form an ankle joint area of the prosthetic foot. The foot keel has forefoot and hindfoot portions and a relatively long midfoot portion extending between and upwardly arched from the forefoot and midfoot portions. The calf shank includes a downward convexly curved lower end which is attached at a portion thereof to the keel midfoot portion by way of an adjustable fastener arrangement. The foot has biplanar motion capability and, in a preferred form, also has high low dynamic response characteristics. The adjustable fastener arrangement permits adjustment of the alignment of the calf shank and the foot keel with respect to one another in the longitudinal direction of the foot keel for tuning the performance of the prosthetic foot.

Abstract: There are provided an artificial joint device that can realize an artificial limb enabling twisting motion without a drive source, and when with the drive source, reduce the size and costs of the device, and a parallel linkage that can realize the device. The linkage connects a foot portion and a mounting plate spaced from each other. A fixed link has one end fixed to the plate, and the other end connected to the foot portion via a ball joint, making the angle of the fixed link relative to the foot portion changeable in any direction. Expansible links extend between the foot portion and the plate in an expansible/contractible manner and each have opposite ends connected to the plate and the foot portion via respective upper and lower ball joints, making respective angles thereof relative to the foot portion and the plate changeable in any direction.

Abstract: A method for fabricating a foam cosmetic cover for a prosthetic component. The steps comprise selection of an appropriate prosthetic component, collecting data regarding its shape from a replica of the prosthetic component, converting the data into the dimensions of two halves of an interior cavity, and providing this data to a computer-controlled milling machine. The computer-controlled milling machine then cuts a portion of one-half of the cavity into one side of the block and a portion of the other half of the cavity on the opposed side of the block. The cutting head is then advanced longitudinally so that additional portions of the cavity can be cut into the opposing sides of the block. The block is then removed from the milling machine and cut in half longitudinally between the indentations in the sides of a block. The two halves of the block are then attached to one another to form a cavity having the general shape of the prosthetic component.

Abstract: A plunger pin assembly for locking engagement with a shuttle lock of a prosthetic limb socket assembly, includes: (a) a housing having an internal cavity and a center-hole extending into its distal end, communicating with the internal cavity; (b) a cradle retained within the cavity, having a distal-facing outer surface that is laterally slidable with respect to the proximal-facing inner surface of the cavity, where the cradle includes a plunger pin component extending distally therefrom; and (c) a resilient shock absorber positioned, at least partially, between the proximal end of the plunger pin component and the inner distal-facing surface of the cavity; where (d) the cradle includes a center hole extending axially therethrough, the plunger pin component includes a ball positioned on a proximal end thereof, the ball having a diameter larger than the diameter of the center hole of the cradle, and the ball of the plunger pin component is seated in the center hole of the cradle to provide a ball joint coupling

Abstract: An impact-absorbing shock module comprises two pylons telescopingly engaged to permit axial and rotational motion therebetween. A resilient element, such as a spring-fluid combination, a plurality of interconnected disks, or a Belleville spring, provides axial shock absorption. A tubular torque-resisting cuff provides rotational resistance, or torsion-resistance. A fluid valve is optionally provided so that the fluid pressure may be varied to adjust the torsion resistance.

Abstract: A pylon includes a first end portion connected to a patient's leg stump and a second end portion connected to a prosthetic foot. The second end portion includes a piston, and the first end portion includes a piston chamber receiving the piston. The second end portion is thus rotatable and axially movable relative to the first end portion about and along a longitudinal axis of the pylon, respectively. The piston chamber encloses a compressible volume of fluid through which substantially all of the patient's weight applied through the patient's leg stump is supported. The compressible volume of fluid is sealed so that it can be pressurized. Also, a torsional spring couples the piston and piston chamber and resists relative rotation between the piston and piston chamber without supporting any substantial portion of the patient's weight applied through the patient's leg stump to the piston. The present invention thus advantageously provides a pylon which is more cushioned and resilient than conventional pylons.

Abstract: Improved prosthetic components and a method for assembly therefor are described wherein the prosthesis comprises prefabricated modular components including a socket adapter, shank or pylon, a keel, and a foot. The method for preparation of the improved prosthesis reduces the time required for prosthesis preparation over that of the prior art, and includes the steps of making a cast of the remaining leg stump and forming a socket therefor; placing the socket in an alignment jig; assembling modular pieces including a prefabricated keel, pylon, and socket adapter; attaching the socket adapter to the socket; draping a final coating of copolymer on the prosthesis; and removing the pylon and socket adapter from the interior of the prosthesis.

Abstract: A prosthetic device for use with lower limb injuries, the device having a lower limb supporting platform and stabilizing brackets adjustably mounted on an upright leg member that is designed for efficient transfer of a user's weight through the hip, the upper leg and the knee to a foot disposed at the end of the leg member. The device allows the user to mimic a natural walking alignment preferably while maintaining the use of the arms and hands.

Abstract: An impact-absorbing shock module comprises two pylons telescopingly engaged to permit axial and rotational motion therebetween. A resilient element, such as a spring-fluid combination, a plurality of interconnected disks, or a Belleville spring, provides axial shock absorption. A tubular torque-resisting cuff provides rotational resistance, or torsion-resistance. A fluid valve is optionally provided so that the fluid pressure may be varied to adjust the torsion resistance.

Abstract: In one embodiment, an impact-absorbing shock module comprises two pylons telescopingly engaged to permit axial and rotational motion therebetween. A resilient element, preferably a spring-fluid combination, provides axial shock absorption. A tubular torque-resisting cuff provides rotational resistance, or torsion-resistance. A fluid valve is provided so that the fluid pressure may be varied to adjust the torsion resistance. In another embodiment, a shock module comprises two pylons maintained in a colinear alignment via a guide pin attached to the lower pylon. A resilient element provides shock absorption, and a torque-resisting cuff provides torsion-resistance. In another embodiment, a shock module comprises two pylons telescopingly engaged to permit axial motion therebetween. The pylons also have a polygonal interface to prevent relative rotation therebetween.

Abstract: A device and a method for remote maintenance of an electronically controllable prosthesis (1) are provided. The prosthesis comprises a controller in which operating and/or movement data characterizing the prosthesis are detected and are then transmitted to a remote maintenance device (20) with a storage and evaluation unit (20). Remote maintenance of the prosthesis using the detected data is possible via a remotely located remote control unit (23) that can access the storage and evaluation unit via the telephone network. Corrected operational data are transmitted from the storage and evaluation unit (20 back to the controller of the prosthesis.

Abstract: To provide a Stirling engine and a control unit for a Stirling engine capable of disposing a displacer unit and a power cylinder unit separately from each other, thereby increasing the degree of freedom of layout thereof. A displacer unit and a power cylinder unit of a Stirling engine E are disposed separately from each other. A compression chamber of the displacer unit is connected to an operation chamber of the power cylinder unit via a pressure conduit. A control actuator capable of arbitrarily controlling the displacer piston of the displacer unit is connected to the displacer piston.

Abstract: Prosthetic apparatus includes a pyramid adaptor and a pylon connected together by an outer sleeve, which may be an elastomeric element. The sleeve or element is clamped to both the pyramid adaptor and to the pylon to provide shock absorbing characteristics and to allow relative axial rotation between the pyramid adaptor and the pylon. Different configurations of sleeves are illustrated, and the use of a third clamp is also illustrated.

Abstract: A leg exoprosthesis for adaptation to a thigh stump (1) has an adapter (2) for a knee joint (3), a knee joint (3) mounted thereon, and a lower leg prosthesis (4) coupled to it. On the lower leg prosthesis (4) a force-transmitting element (5) is coupled into which extending forces are introduced.

Abstract: It is sought to provide a body part substitute, which can be held mounted without feel of uncomfortability and be held mounted continuously for long time without possibility of occasional detachment, and a method of mounting the same. A thin film having breathable property, flexibility and extensible-contractible property is attached to the corresponding portion of the body part substitute to be held in close contact with the human body. Alternatively, the thin film is bonded to the human body, and then the corresponding portion of the body part substitute is bonded to the thin film. By preparing the thin film as a transparent film, the skin of the human body can be seen through the thin film, and more natural feel is thus obtainable.

Abstract: A unilateral or bilateral orthotic or prosthetic device that facilitates reciprocating ambulation by a human user is described. The reciprocating gait orthosis includes a torso vest securely positionable around the torso of the user, at least one torso joint coupled to the torso vest such that the torso joint is approximately adjacent to the user's natural waist, and at least one hip member that couples the torso joint and torso vest to a conventional leg support assembly at the hip joint approximately adjacent the user's natural hip joint. The leg support assembly is adapted to couple to the user's leg or to replace the human user's missing leg to provide the user stable support when the user is in an upright position.

Abstract: A prosthetic foot gasket for sealing between a foot shell covering a foot portion of an endoskeletal prosthetic leg and a leg portion thereof comprises a peripheral body having an upper surface and further defining a central opening therethrough. A lip extends from a bottom of the body and in combination with the body defines a groove therearound for receiving a top portion of the foot shell. A seal is affixed to an upper surface of the body for sealing engagement with the leg portion of the prosthetic leg.

Abstract: The invention relates to a hip joint which has an attachment for an artificial leg and which, in order to permit a largely natural walking movement, has the following features: a front link (5) and a rear link (6) are articulated at their respective upper sections, via a first joint connection (1) and a second joint connection (2), respectively, to a front section and a rear section, respectively, of an upper transverse link (7), and are articulated at their respective lower sections, via a third joint connection (3) and a fourth joint connection (4), respectively, to a front section and a rear section, respectively, of a lower transverse link (8); the first and third joint connections (1, 3) together have at least five degrees of freedom; the second joint connection (2) is a hinge pin which with its pivot axis (2a) is approximately perpendicular to the sagittal plane and has one degree of freedom; the fourth joint connection (4) has a pivot axis (4a) with mediolateral and anteroposterior inclination and with

Abstract: A prosthetic device includes an energy storing member, a lever member attached to the energy storing member, a rocking member and an energy transfer line. This line has a first end attached to a front end of the energy storing member and a second end attached to a back end of the lever member. The line has its middle portion attached to the rocking member. The energy storing member is preferably a leaf spring. This combination of elements in the prosthetic device may be a lower leg or foot for use by a below-the-knee amputee to simulate more closely the natural gait of a person while walking or running.

Abstract: A device in a leg prosthesis provided with a shock- and torque absorber intended to absorb shocks as well as rotational movements which occur when the foot hits the ground during walking, running, jumping etc. and comprising two parts (10, 11) which are telescopically displaceable and rotatable with sect to each other. Mhm device further comprises a first resilient member (12) arranged between the two telescopic pars (10, 11) and said resilient member is arranged to be compressed at a telescopic movement of said parts in a retracting direction, that a second resilient member (19) is attached to the outer telescopic part (10) and limitedly displaceable in the inner telescopic part (11) limiting the telescopic movement as well as the rotational movement thereof in the outer telescopic part (10).