Abstract: In one embodiment, a double-wall prosthetic limb socket assembly includes: (a) a first substantially rigid inner-wall socket adapted to receive a patient's residual limb; and (b) a second substantially rigid outer-wall socket seating the first inner-wall socket therein, the second outer-wall socket including, (i) a distal, circular base-plate; and (ii) a molded circumferential wall bonded to and extending proximally from the distal, circular base-plate; where the circular base-plate includes a vacuum port extending radially from a circumferential outer side of the base-plate in fluid communication with a vacuum channel extending through the circular base-plate and out through an outlet hole in a proximal side of the circular base-plate; such that when the vacuum port is coupled to a vacuum pump, the vacuum will help to draw the first inner-wall socket into the second outer-wall socket.

Abstract: A prosthetic assembly operative to evacuate an interior of a prosthetic socket, and control systems for use therewith. The prosthetic assembly employs evacuation devices for evacuating the socket. The evacuation devices preferably include at least an electrically powered vacuum pump and a power source located within a housing. Associated control systems may be of various design and may employ wired or wireless communication. When wireless communication is employed, a hand held controller or other remote control device may be used to remotely control operation of the evacuation device.

Abstract: A prosthetic sleeve and socket system, the sleeve including dual flaps or skirts concentrically arranged about the sleeve and configured to form a sealed chamber between the sleeve and socket when the sleeve is inserted into the socket. An air permeable material is interposed between one of the skirts and the sleeve to maintain a continuous interconnected air layer therebetween. An expulsion valve is provided to allow air contained within the sealed chamber to be forced out of the chamber ahead of the sleeve when it is inserted into the socket, and a powered vacuum pump maintains the vacuum thereafter, if needed. The system allows for a substantial reduction in size of known sockets and permits, in some instances, the disposal of bulky suspension straps currently in use to force the socket against a residual limb.

Abstract: A lock connects the distal end of a liner to the distal end of the hard socket of a prosthetic leg, and limits or prevents air flow into the hard socket through the distal lock mechanism, even when vacuum is established inside the socket. The distal lock normally is latched, but can be conveniently unlatched by swinging a cammed latch handle. The liner pin may be inserted and locked into the distal lock, without the distal lock being unlatched and without losing the internal air seal preventing air flow through passages of the lock. A slidable, biased lock blade, and interaction between slanted surfaces of the blade and the liner pin, allow the pin to slide down, but not up, past the blade. The latch handle does protrude radially outward a significant distance, when the lock is unlatched, but, as soon as the lock is latched, the handle resides against and/or near the outer surface of the lock housing.

Abstract: A prosthetic hard socket has a modified curvature and/or shape, which eliminates or de-emphasizes the patellar bar to eliminate or reduce pressure on the wearer's patellar tendon, and, instead, enhances support of the anterior tibial condyle and/or tibial tubercle. Thus, the preferred socket is designed with the patellar tendon preferably not being weight-bearing. The preferred curvature and/or shape comprises a lowered socket edge and/or a gap in the socket wall in the region of the patellar tendon, so that the hard structure of the socket does not directly support or press upon the patellar tendon. The invented socket may include inwardly-protruding regions on each side of the lowered edge/gap, for helping to “capture” or otherwise press on a portion of the tibia for improved rotational control. This combination of shapes and curvatures provides for improved rotational control, comfort, and range of motion including even full extension or hyperextension.

Abstract: A valve system regulates the air pressure in the space(s) between a residual limb, or liner-covered limb, and a hard socket of an external prosthesis, for example, for improving donning and doffing the prosthesis, and/or during walking and other normal use of the prosthesis. The valve system may include a manually-controlled air outlet and inlet valve that may be installed on a distal region of a hard socket, and/or an automatic one-way outlet valve. The manually-controlled valve is preferably opened and closed by twisting of a handle portion of the valve system, wherein partial rotation of the handle portion relative to the base portion of the valve system creates slight separation of the handle and base portions to form a gap through which may pass air from the well of the socket. This simple twisting, or partial rotation, provides a valve that stays open hands-free, so that the wearer may open the valve and then use his/her hands to don or doff the prosthesis.

Abstract: A suspension liner system adapted to provide an interface between a residual limb and a prosthetic socket, the liner sleeve including an elongate generally conical liner sleeve including proximal and distal end areas, and a sealing member arranged to removably fit onto the distal end area of the liner sleeve. The sealing member has proximal and distal end areas, and defines a resilient seal element located at the proximal end area and a receiving portion formed from the distal end area. The seal element outwardly protrudes relative to the receiving portion of the liner sleeve and is arranged for deflection against the liner sleeve.

Abstract: A prosthetic system having a microprocessor-controlled socket evacuation device, and a method of retaining a prosthesis on the residual limb of an amputee using such an evacuation device. The evacuation device preferably includes at least an electrically powered vacuum pump and a power source. The microprocessor control allows the evacuation device to be operated in a manner that automatically adjusts the socket vacuum level to correspond to a determined activity level of a user. The microprocessor control may also limit operation of the evacuation device to certain determined portions of a user's gait cycle.

Abstract: A vacuum socket system pertaining to the field of prosthetics wherein an enhanced suspension mechanism is provided by incorporating a vacuum source, circuitry, and a power source. A virtually air-tight seal between residual limb and prosthesis allows a vacuum fit to be generated via a vacuum source. The vacuum source is in constant interaction with circuitry and software for a means of vacuum pressure control, data recordation, and other means. A sound dampening method is employed to lessen both the sound and vibration generated from the vacuum source.

Abstract: An elevated vacuum locking system for prosthetic limb. An exemplary embodiment may include a plunger pin mounted to a flexible liner and including a through passage between a location proximate the exterior of the liner and a distal end of the plunger pin; a locking mechanism mounted within the distal end of a socket; a manifold mounted to the exterior of the distal end of the socket and including a cavity adapted to receive the distal end of the plunger pin when the patient's residual limb and the liner are installed into the socket, the manifold including a through passage connecting an interior of the cavity to an exterior fitting; and a vacuum pump operative to withdraw air from the interior of the socket via the through passage of the plunger pin, the cavity, and the through passage of the manifold.

Abstract: An elevated vacuum locking system for prosthetic limb. An exemplary embodiment may include a plunger pin mounted to a flexible liner and including a through passage between a location proximate the exterior of the liner and a distal end of the plunger pin; a locking mechanism mounted within the distal end of a socket; a manifold mounted to the exterior of the distal end of the socket and including a cavity adapted to receive the distal end of the plunger pin when the patient's residual limb and the liner are installed into the socket, the manifold including a through passage connecting an interior of the cavity to an exterior fitting; and a vacuum pump operative to withdraw air from the interior of the socket via the through passage of the plunger pin, the cavity, and the through passage of the manifold.

Abstract: A valve system regulates the air pressure in the space(s) between a residual limb, or liner-covered limb, and a hard socket of an external prosthesis, and may include a manually-controlled air outlet and inlet valve on a distal region of a hard socket, and/or an automatic one-way outlet valve. The manually-controlled valve is opened and closed by partial rotation/twisting of a handle portion, which creates slight separation of the handle and base portions through which may pass air. The handle and base are prevented from becoming entirely separated during normal use by a snap-fit of the base onto the handle that retains the ability of the handle and base to rotate relative to each other by means of a ramp system, and a stop(s) that limit(s) the amount of relative rotation of the handle and base portions of the valve.

Abstract: A prosthetic device comprises a connecting portion for connecting to a person using vacuum; and a control structure for controlling an amount of vacuum used to connect the connecting portion to the person, wherein the control structure includes: a vacuum pump (502) in fluid communication with the connecting portion for controlling an amount of vacuum used to connect the connecting portion to the person, a vacuum sensing mechanism (506) configured to provide signals indicating the amount of vacuum in the connecting portion, a movement sensing mechanism (509) configured to provide signals indicating at least one of acceleration of the prosthetic device, orientation of the prosthetic device, force experienced by the prosthetic device, and a direction of force experienced by the prosthetic device, and a controller configured to receive signals from the vacuum sensing mechanism (506) and the movement sensing mechanism (509), and to control the vacuum pump (502).

Abstract: The disclosed prosthetic device may comprise a receptacle for receiving a limb of a person; a vacuum pump in fluid communication with the receptacle for maintaining an amount of vacuum used for connecting the receptacle to the limb of the person; a controller; and/or an electronically controllable fluid control device. The controller may be configured to provide a vacuum signature to be displayed at a user interface and/or to control the amount of vacuum used for connecting the receptacle to the limb of the person.

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.

Abstract: A portable device, with method, advantageously applies dynamic stimulation of enclosed muscle tissue to stabilize a prosthetic socket on a residual limb. Dynamic stimulation is in response to physical conditions such as prosthesis motion, position and/or internal pressures. Tissue volume contained within the socket may be stabilized by varying average stimulation levels in response to internal socket pressure.

Abstract: An elevated vacuum locking system for prosthetic limb. An exemplary embodiment may include a plunger pin mounted to a flexible liner and including a through passage between a location proximate the exterior of the liner and a distal end of the plunger pin; a locking mechanism mounted within the distal end of a socket; a manifold mounted to the exterior of the distal end of the socket and including a cavity adapted to receive the distal end of the plunger pin when the patient's residual limb and the liner are installed into the socket, the manifold including a through passage connecting an interior of the cavity to an exterior fitting; and a vacuum pump operative to withdraw air from the interior of the socket via the through passage of the plunger pin, the cavity, and the through passage of the manifold.

Abstract: An apparatus and method is provided for securing a prosthesis to the residuum of a limb of an amputee and for providing pressure therapy to the residuum so as to manage fluid within the residuum. The apparatus includes a socket shaped to receive a residuum of a limb of an amputee and configured to connect to a prosthetic limb. The socket forms a chamber between the socket and the residuum when the socket receives the residuum. The apparatus also includes a pressure control device operably connected to the chamber and capable of creating a positive pressure and a negative pressure within the chamber to provide pressure therapy to the residuum, as well as provide securement of the socket to the residuum. The apparatus may also include a liner surrounding at least a portion of the residuum. The control device adjusts pressure within the chamber based on manual and automatic inputs.

Abstract: A removable liner used in conjunction with a socket for a prosthetic device, in which a vacuum is wicked across the entire area of a porous fabric of the liner, is disclosed. The liner preferably includes a shaped-layer made from one of either a silicone or a urethane and has an exterior surface, an interior surface and a passage therein which opens at each of the two surfaces and connects to a valve of the socket. The liner further includes a first porous fabric covering at least a portion of the exterior surface of the shaped-layer including the corresponding opening of the passage, and a second porous fabric covering at least a portion of the interior surface of the shaped-layer including the corresponding opening of the passage. A vacuum source coupled to the liner, via the valve on the socket, draws a vacuum which is wicked across the entire surface of the first and second porous fabrics which interface with the socket and the user's residual limb, respectively.

Abstract: A socket assembly for use with a prosthetic device. The socket assembly receives at least a portion of a residual limb on which the prosthetic device is attached. The socket assembly includes an airtight outer shell adapted and constructed to receive a portion of the residual limb of an amputee, the shell having an interior and an exterior. A vacuum-permeable skin interface is secured to at least a portion of the interior of the outer shell. A high-vacuum valve communicates between the interior of the socket and the exterior of the socket, the valve being adapted and constructed to be attached to a vacuum source.

Abstract: A suspension liner system adapted to provide an interface between a residual limb and a prosthetic socket, the liner sleeve including an elongate generally conical liner sleeve including proximal and distal end areas, and a sealing member arranged to removably fit onto the distal end area of the liner sleeve. The sealing member has proximal and distal end areas, and defines a resilient seal element located at the proximal end area and a receiving portion formed from the distal end area. The seal element outwardly protrudes relative to the receiving portion of the liner sleeve and is arranged for deflection against the liner sleeve.

Abstract: A vacuum pump system for a prosthesis device includes an enhanced suspension mechanism and cooperates with a pressure source, an adaptor assembly, circuitry, and a power source. A virtually air-tight seal between a residual limb and a socket of the prosthesis allows a vacuum fit to be generated by the pump system. The pump system may be controlled with various circuits and processors receiving instructions from a software program. The pump system may be located within a pylon, but yet remain vibrationally and acoustically de-coupled from the pylon.

Abstract: A vacuum pump system for a prosthesis includes an enhanced suspension mechanism and incorporates a vacuum pump system, an adaptor assembly, circuitry, and a power source. A virtually air-tight seal between a residual limb and a socket of the prosthesis allows a vacuum fit to be generated by the pump system. The pump system may be controlled with various circuits and processors receiving instructions from a software program. The pump system may be located within a pylon, but yet remain vibrationally and acoustically de-coupled from the pylon.

Abstract: A vacuum-assisted liner system for the socket of a limb prosthesis secures the prosthesis to a residual body portion. A vacuum is created directly between the residual body portion and the socket (8) to hold them together and minimise relative movement between them. The system includes a flexible liner (4) made of an impermeable material, at least a distal part (4D) of the liner being porous to allow the transport of air and fluid directly away from the residual body portion to the outer surface of the liner. A fabric distribution layer (6) is located over the liner (4) and between the liner and the socket (8) to allow transmission of such extracted air and fluid laterally over the liner to an evacuation port (10) in the socket.

Abstract: An anchoring system for a transtibial or transfemoral (above or below the knee) prosthesis. The anchoring system includes a liner for enveloping an amputee limb. The liner has a first strap attached toward an upper end, and a corresponding strap fixedly attached to the distal bottom end of the liner. The anchoring system also includes a containment socket for seating the liner. The containment socket has a pair of slots there through at positions corresponding to the two straps of the liner, respectively. To apply the anchoring system, the patient first applies the liner to his/her limb. The liner is then inserted into the socket with the two fastening straps protruding out through the respective slots. The patient pulls down on the lower strap thereby drawing the liner down into the socket until the liner is securely seated in the socket. When fully seated, the two fastening straps are overlayed and secured to themselves by Velcro™. The foregoing forms a suspension which holds the prosthesis on.

Abstract: Elevated vacuum locking systems for prosthetic limbs are disclosed. Some example embodiments may include a manifold mounted to the exterior of the distal end of a socket and may include a cavity adapted to receive a distal end of a plunger pin when the patient's residual limb and a liner are installed into the socket. Some example manifolds may include a through passage fluidicly connecting an interior of the cavity to a fitting mounted on an exterior of the manifold and/or a spool valve arranged to selectively vent the cavity to atmosphere via the through passage and a vent hole. The spool valve may be axially slidable between an open position and a shut position within a channel integrally formed with the manifold.

Abstract: A valve system may attach to the distal area of a prosthetic hard socket without leaks, in spite of the high amount of curvature of the distal area. The valve stem/member of the valve system slides to, or rests in, a closed position that seals against a valve housing surface. The valve is adapted for a low “crack” or “pop” pressure, for example, when the pressure inside the distal region of the socket well is 1-3 psi above the air pressure outside the hard socket. An elastomeric valve member is preferably used that exhibits a very accurate and reproducible response at the low crack pressure, and, in addition, sound dampening and/or filtration pads may be used to further reduce sound and fouling of the preferred elastomeric valve member. The preferred valve gives repeated, consistent, and quiet performance, which helps prevent uncomfortable and/or high-noise-producing swings in the pressure inside the socket well.

Abstract: A socket system in a prosthetic or orthotic artificial limb for amputees, the socket system being dynamically activated by weight-bearing loads and variable in response to shear forces imposed by weight-bearing loads. The socket system includes: a liner adapted to engage the residual limb; a semi-flexible inner socket having a textured surface; an inner socket air wick between the liner and the textured surface of the inner socket; a semi-rigid outer socket having a textured surface; an outer socket air wick between the inner socket and the textured surface of the outer socket; a sealing sleeve engaging the outer socket and the residual limb, the sealing sleeve, the outer socket, and the residual limb creating a sealed chamber; and a vacuum source connected to the sealed chamber and creating a vacuum within the sealed chamber. The vacuum source is dynamically activated in response to weight-bearing loads and varies the response of the socket system to shear forces imposed by weight-bearing loads.

Abstract: A vacuum socket system pertaining to the field of prosthetics wherein an enhanced suspension mechanism is provided by incorporating a vacuum source, circuitry, and a power source. A virtually air-tight seal between residual limb and prosthesis allows a vacuum fit to be generated via a vacuum source. The vacuum source is in constant interaction with circuitry and software for a means of vacuum pressure control, data recordation, and other means. A sound dampening method is employed to lessen both the sound and vibration generated from the vacuum source.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for improved prosthesis donning, doffing, retention, and fit. A valve located in a prosthetic socket port includes a body, a core, a spring located partially within the core, a diaphragm, and a maintained operator. The operator includes a recess and a protrusion. The operator may be indexed to a displacement or vent position. When the operator is indexed to the displacement position, a tip of the core is pressed against the recess via the spring, and the diaphragm displaces any air that enters into the prosthetic socket when a load is applied to the residual limb. When the operator is laterally actuated, it is indexed to the vent position and the core tip moves from the recess to the protrusion. In this position, the diaphragm opens the socket cavity to the external atmosphere via valve vents, thereby facilitating prosthesis donning and doffing.

Abstract: A socket system in a prosthetic or orthotic artificial limb for amputees, the socket system being dynamically activated by weight-bearing loads and variable in response to shear forces imposed by weight-bearing loads. The socket system includes: a liner adapted to engage the residual limb; a semi-flexible inner socket having a textured surface; an inner socket air wick between the liner and the textured surface of the inner socket; a semi-rigid outer socket having a textured surface; an outer socket air wick between the inner socket and the textured surface of the outer socket; a sealing sleeve engaging the outer socket and the residual limb, the sealing sleeve, the outer socket, and the residual limb creating a sealed chamber; and a vacuum source connected to the sealed chamber and creating a vacuum within the sealed chamber. The vacuum source is dynamically activated in response to weight-bearing loads and varies the response of the socket system to shear forces imposed by weight-bearing loads.

Abstract: An anchoring system for a transtibial or transfemoral (above or below the knee) prosthesis. The anchoring system includes a liner for enveloping an amputee limb. The liner has a first strap releasably secured to the fabric of the liner by a reinforcement plate that has a particular molded hook backing that removably adheres to the liner in such a way as to still provide a secure anchor for the buckle. The liner also has a second strap fixedly attached to the distal bottom end of the liner. The anchoring system also includes a containment socket for seating the liner. The containment socket has a pair of slots there through at positions corresponding to the two straps of the liner, respectively. To apply the anchoring system, the patient first applies the liner to his/her limb. The liner is then inserted into the socket with the two fastening straps protruding out through the respective slots.

Abstract: An anchoring system for a transtibial or transfemoral (above or below the knee) prosthesis. A gel liner is inserted into a socket, and the liner has a dual-strap attachment system including an upper strap and buckle attached upwardly to the liner and passing out through the socket, and a lower strap attached distally to the liner. The liner also has a port attached at a lower distal end for introducing a vacuum into the liner and for evacuating fluids (sweat) therefrom. To accomplish the foregoing, an annular centering puck is attached at the distal end of the socket (at the aperture), the puck having a generally concave side in communication with the aperture for seating the liner therein. The centering puck is formed with a dual passage there through that passes both a vacuum tube and lower strap outward from the liner to exterior of the socket.

Abstract: The expulsion liner is for use with a prosthetic device to be secured to a residual limb. The expulsion liner includes an elongated elastomeric tube having a closed distal end and an open proximal end, and defining an interior space configured to receive the residual limb. A one-way valve is positioned within the closed distal end and provides controlled fluid communication between the interior space and an external environment. The one-way valve may be configured to allow the weight of a user, via the residual limb, to expel moisture and air from the interior space out to the external environment.

Abstract: A suspension liner sleeve providing an interface between a residual limb and a hard prosthetic socket includes a resilient seal element extending around its outer periphery to enhance a sealing effect between the sleeve and the interior of a prosthetic socket to isolate the distal end of the socket from atmosphere after the sleeve with a residual limb has been inserted within the socket and to thereby improve the retention of the liner sleeve and the residual limb in the prosthetic socket.

Abstract: A vacuum pump having shock absorption and controlled rotation for use in an artificial limb. The pump includes a housing having a first chamber, and a shaft configured to be received by and to reciprocate within the first chamber, the housing and shaft forming a pump chamber. A piston may be coupled to the shaft and positioned within the pump chamber, and intake and exhaust ports are fluidly coupled to the pump chamber. Rotational structure is mounted with respect to the pump to provide controlled rotation of the shaft relative to the housing, and shock absorption structure is included within the pump to provide shock absorption for the shaft. Both a pneumatic spring and a mechanical spring element may be provided for the shock absorption structure. An optional adapter couples the shaft to the pylon of an integral pylon prosthetic foot.

Abstract: The negative gauge pressure moisture management and secure adherence artificial limb system is to be attached to a residual limb of an amputee. The artificial limb system includes a negative gauge pressure airflow liner, a surface area multiplying textile layer with a proximal airflow seal to surround at least a portion of the residual limb and define a regulated negative gauge pressure environment between the residual limb and the negative gauge pressure liner. The liner has a plurality of airflow passageways defining inflow air channels and an outflow air channel in fluid communication with the defined regulated negative gauge pressure environment. An airflow control system is connected inline with the outflow and inflow air channels. The airflow control system includes an airflow regulation device and an airflow initiating device.

Abstract: The mounting plate system is for use with a prosthetic socket, the socket having at least one aperture in a distal end thereof and in fluid communication with an interior portion of the socket which receives a residual limb. The mounting plate system includes a mounting plate having a top face to interface with the socket, and a bottom face for attachment to lower portions of a prosthetic limb. An opening in the mounting plate extends from the top face to the bottom face thereof, and a valve housing is positioned in the opening and has a channel therein for fluid communication with the interior portion of the socket via the at least one aperture. A one-way expulsion valve is secured between the valve housing and the socket adjacent the aperture and for regulating fluid communication between the interior portion of the socket and the channel in the valve housing. A vacuum reservoir seal plate is also provided.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for improved prosthesis donning, doffing, retention, and fit. A valve located in a prosthetic socket port includes a body, a core, a spring located partially within the core, a diaphragm, and a maintained operator. The operator includes a recess and a protrusion. The operator may be indexed to a displacement or vent position. When the operator is indexed to the displacement position, a tip of the core is pressed against the recess via the spring, and the diaphragm displaces any air that enters into the prosthetic socket when a load is applied to the residual limb. When the operator is laterally actuated, it is indexed to the vent position and the core tip moves from the recess to the protrusion. In this position, the diaphragm opens the socket cavity to the external atmosphere via valve vents, thereby facilitating prosthesis donning and doffing.

Abstract: The invention relates to a cup-shaped prosthesis shaft consisting of an air-tight and essentially rigid material comprising a sealing means for protecting against the entry of air from the proximal open side, said shaft being used in prostheses for replacing limbs. The inside of the shaft is provided with at least one pump device such that relative movements between the stump and the shaft during the use of the prosthesis pump air out of the inside of the prosthesis shaft via flow channels and monoway valves to the outside of the prosthesis shaft. The pump action is obtained by varying the volume of a compartment formed from flexible or elastic films, said compartment being arranged adjacently to the strump in the main extension thereof. The compartment is either fixed to the inner wall of a rigid prosthesis shaft, or built into the wall of a flexible and elastic removable stump coating which is arranged, as part of the prosthesis shaft, between the stump and a rigid frame.

Abstract: A fitting including an electrode assembly mounted and sealed therein. The fitting configured to be positioned within an aperture in a wall of a socket of a prosthetic apparatus. The prosthetic apparatus may include an external socket that receives and is attached to the socket as an internal socket. The electrode assembly has one or more skin contacts for conduction of myoelectrical signals to a prosthetic system. The fitting includes a groove and a retention rim to secure and seal the fitting within the aperture in the socket wall, in order to prevent the passage of air and moisture from the interior of the socket when a stump of a limb is received therein. A unidirectional valve provides for the release of air from the interior of the socket.

Abstract: A device and method to aid in the donning and doffing of prosthetic liners. A vacuum is created between the device and the prosthetic liner in order to expand the prosthetic liner. The device and the liner can then be placed in position on a residual limb and the vacuum released to aid in donning the liner. To doff a liner, the device is placed in position over a residual limb carrying a prosthetic liner. A vacuum is created between the device and the liner to expand the liner in order to aid doffing.

Abstract: A post amputation limb protection to be applied to newly or recently amputated transtibial, transradial or transfemoral residual limbs comprises an inner soft liner for placement on and around the limb above the end of the stump, an end pad for placement over the stump, a shell for placement over the end pad and inner soft liner, medial and lateral struts for placement along the length of the limb over the inner soft liner, attachment structures on the various components and strap closures for securing the components to the limb, and a waist belt and suspensor, for attachment to the assembly to keep the assembly in place.

Abstract: A vacuum chamber socket system having a shell which defines a receiving portion for receiving a residuum. The receiving portion is connected via a vacuum transfer port to a vacuum reservoir chamber. A one-way or non-return valve is provided within the vacuum transfer port for allowing air to pass from the receiving portion into the chamber, but not from the chamber to the receiving portion. The chamber also includes an evacuation port for creating a partial vacuum within both the chamber and the receiving portion. A removable evacuation device may be connected to the evacuation port in order to create the partial vacuum.

Abstract: An elevated vacuum locking system for prosthetic limb. An exemplary embodiment may include a plunger pin mounted to a flexible liner and including a through passage between a location proximate the exterior of the liner and a distal end of the plunger pin; a locking mechanism mounted within the distal end of a socket; a manifold mounted to the exterior of the distal end of the socket and including a cavity adapted to receive the distal end of the plunger pin when the patient's residual limb and the liner are installed into the socket, the manifold including a through passage connecting an interior of the cavity to an exterior fitting; and a vacuum pump operative to withdraw air from the interior of the socket via the through passage of the plunger pin, the cavity, and the through passage of the manifold.

Abstract: A vacuum socket system pertaining to the field of prosthetics wherein an enhanced suspension mechanism is provided by incorporating a vacuum source, circuitry, and a power source. A virtually air-tight seal between residual limb and prosthesis allows a vacuum fit to be generated via a vacuum source. The vacuum source is in constant interaction with circuitry and software for a means of vacuum pressure control, data recordation, and other means. A sound dampening method is employed to lessen both the sound and vibration generated from the vacuum source.

Abstract: A method for recording information regarding a balance orientation of a limb-receiving member covering a residual limb of an amputee by applying force to a movable alignment device, transmitting light onto the limb-receiving member to define a first balance plane through the limb-receiving member.

Abstract: A method of measuring the performance of a prosthetic foot includes obtaining a pressure distribution of the prosthetic foot during a motion of the prosthetic foot and determining whether the pressure distribution falls within a preselected range of performance values for the prosthetic foot. The pressure distribution comprises a trajectory illustrating the progression of a center of pressure of the prosthetic foot during motion. A prosthetic foot can also be designed to approximate a pressure distribution corresponding to a preselected range of performance values.

Abstract: An improved prosthetic device with a vacuum system for maintaining a negative pressure seal between the socket and the residual limb. The vacuum system includes a vacuum surge chamber which maintains seal vacuum and increases the time between recharging a Li ion battery, allowing the battery to be recharged-up to 500 times. The system is small, lightweight, and concealable within the prosthetic device so that it neither impedes use of the device nor detracts from a cosmetically accurate limb.

Abstract: A malleable bag connected to a one-way valve can be used to provide a prosthesis with an accurate impression of a residual limb and to perfect accurate static and dynamic alignment of the prosthesis on a patient. Methods and systems allow to rapidly and accurately capture an impression of a residual limb, including soft tissue compression due to the weight of the patient.