Vacuum pump systems for prosthetic limbs and methods of using the same
Inventors
Caldwell, Ryan J. • Major, Matthew J.
Assignees
Northwestern University • US Department of Veterans Affairs
Publication Number
US-10806604-B2
Publication Date
2020-10-20
Expiration Date
2036-08-19
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Abstract
Pump systems for use in suspension of a prosthetic device from a residual limb and methods of suspending a prosthetic device from a residual limb are disclosed. The pump systems include a mechanically activated pump having a first compression member coupled to a second compression member, a diaphragm disposed between the first and second compression members, and coupling elements that engage and couple together the first and second compression members. The mechanically activated pump may be connected with an electrically activated pump, forming a hybrid pump system to provide vacuum engagement between a prosthetic device and a residual limb.
Core Innovation
The present invention relates to vacuum pump systems used for suspending a prosthetic device from a residual limb, specifically incorporating at least a mechanically activated pump with a low profile design that uses a domed or suction cup shaped diaphragm between first and second compression members. This diaphragm design avoids the need for a large central opening, allowing the pump to have a moderate diameter and low displacement for adequate pumping capacity, making it suitable for placement either above or below the knee in transfemoral prosthetic limbs or within transtibial prosthetic limbs.
The inventive mechanically activated pump comprises a first compression member coupled to a second compression member with coupling elements arranged around the outer perimeter of the diaphragm, permitting guided translation of the compression members towards each other to compress the diaphragm and create vacuum pressure. Additionally, the invention encompasses hybrid pump systems combining the mechanically activated pump with an electrically activated pump, providing modular systems that utilize the strengths of both types to achieve efficient vacuum suspension with reduced power requirements and improved compactness.
The problem addressed by the invention is the limitations of prior vacuum pump systems for prosthetic limb suspension. Electrically activated pumps require batteries and may generate noise, while mechanically activated pumps often are bulky, slower to achieve vacuum, and limited to below knee placement due to length requirements. Existing mechanically activated pumps use large bladder or piston systems with central tubular assemblies or broad bladders that can flex undesirably. For some users, such as active military personnel, there is a need for compact, quiet, and efficient pumps with adjustable pressure that minimize battery recharge needs. The invention seeks to provide a low profile mechanically activated pump and an effective hybrid system overcoming these prior art shortcomings.
Claims Coverage
The patent includes one independent claim that defines a hybrid pump system incorporating a mechanically activated pump and an electrically activated pump for prosthetic limb suspension.
Hybrid pump system configuration
A hybrid pump system comprising a mechanically activated pump and an electrically activated pump connected to each other, each providing vacuum engagement between the prosthetic device and residual limb.
Mechanically activated pump structure
The mechanically activated pump includes a first compression member coupled to a second compression member, a diaphragm positioned between these members, and coupling elements around the outer perimeter of the diaphragm guiding translation of the first compression member relative to the second one.
Placement of electrically activated pump
The electrically activated pump is disposed outward from the outer perimeter of the diaphragm of the mechanically activated pump.
The claims collectively cover a hybrid vacuum pump system characterized by a mechanically activated pump with a domed diaphragm and peripheral coupling elements connected to an electrically activated pump arranged outside the diaphragm perimeter, providing combined vacuum engagement for prosthetic limb suspension.
Stated Advantages
Provides a compact, quiet, and unobtrusive vacuum pump system with adjustable pressure and minimal battery recharging needs.
Enables low profile mechanically activated pump designs that can be positioned above or below the knee, including compact placement within transtibial prosthetic limbs.
Combines mechanically and electrically activated pumps to utilize strengths of both, allowing rapid initial vacuum engagement and efficient maintenance using less battery power.
Permits elimination or reduction of external tubing by allowing direct inline connection to prosthetic sockets.
Documented Applications
Suspending a prosthetic device from a residual limb in both transfemoral and transtibial prosthetic limb configurations using vacuum suspension.
Use in hybrid pump systems combining mechanically and electrically activated pumps for improved vacuum maintenance in prosthetic limbs.
Placement of vacuum pump systems above or below the knee to improve compactness and reduce interference with prosthetic limb motion.
Use with prosthetic limb sockets designed for direct contact or sockets used in combination with liners to protect residual limb tissue.
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