Devices, systems, and methods for socket fit management
Inventors
Ferguson, John • Voss, Gregory Owen • Fairhurst, Stuart Richard • Hansen, Andrew
Assignees
US Department of Veterans Affairs
Publication Number
US-11395748-B2
Publication Date
2022-07-26
Expiration Date
2038-04-03
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Abstract
Disclosed herein are devices, systems, and methods for measuring socket fit in lower limb prostheses and detecting motion of a residual limb relative to a prosthetic socket. Also disclosed herein are methods for developing a socket-fit detection system for sock management that can be applied to adjustable socket systems.
Core Innovation
Disclosed herein are devices, systems, and methods for measuring socket fit in lower limb prostheses and detecting motion of a residual limb relative to a prosthetic socket. The invention addresses the need for a socket-fit detection system for sock management that can be applied to adjustable socket systems and is suitable for self-management by individuals with lower-limb amputations.
The problem being solved is that many individuals with lower-limb amputations have difficulty knowing when to change sock levels and how much adjustment is necessary, especially those with poor sensation. Current technologies for measuring socket fit are not suitable for self-management at home, as existing methods are either too expensive, power-hungry, or difficult to use. There is a need for an easy-to-use, inexpensive device that can measure socket fit and be integrated into the prosthetic socket, enabling users to manage sock levels effectively.
Claims Coverage
The patent includes multiple independent claims covering a sensor assembly, a socket fit management system, and methods of using the system. There are four identified independent claims that focus on core inventive features involving the sensor assembly design, components, and integration into a prosthetic socket.
Sensor assembly with sealed fluid-filled chamber and membrane for detecting pressure changes
A sensor assembly comprising a rigid body defining an opening, a pressure sensor positioned in fluid communication with the opening, a sealing element (such as an O-ring) that forms a seal between the pressure sensor and the rigid body, and a membrane sealed to the rigid body. The rigid body, membrane lower surface, pressure sensor, and seal define a sealed chamber containing fluid. The membrane's upper surface is configured for contact with the distal portion of a residual limb, and the sensor assembly fits complementarily within a distal portion of a prosthetic socket. The pressure sensor outputs signals indicating pressure changes in the sealed chamber caused by deformation of the membrane by the residual limb.
Lower body support for pressure sensor secured to rigid body
The sensor assembly further includes a lower body that supports the pressure sensor in an operative position secured to the rigid body. The lower body has an upper surface with a receptacle receiving the pressure sensor, and a lower surface with a receptacle for at least a portion of processing circuitry.
Socket fit management system incorporating sensor assembly within prosthetic socket
A socket fit management system comprising a prosthetic socket with a distal portion and the sensor assembly received within that distal portion. The sensor assembly includes processing circuitry communicatively coupled to the pressure sensor to analyze data related to socket fit.
Method of measuring pressure changes from residual limb motion using sensor assembly in prosthetic socket
A method comprising using the sensor assembly positioned within the distal portion of a prosthetic socket to measure pressure changes resulting from movement of a residual limb contacting the membrane. The processing circuitry can determine quality of socket fit and remotely transmit data indicative of the quality of fit. The sensor assembly may include accelerometers or gyroscopes producing outputs indicative of patient movement types.
The independent claims focus on a sensor assembly featuring a sealed, fluid-filled chamber defined by a membrane and rigid body, combined with a pressure sensor, lower body support, and sealing elements, integrated into the distal end of a prosthetic socket. This assembly forms the basis of a socket fit management system and methods for measuring socket fit by detecting pressure changes caused by residual limb movement.
Stated Advantages
Provides an easy-to-use tool for self-management of prosthetic socket fit at home and in clinical settings.
Low cost and easy integration into prosthetic sockets using existing attachment spaces, facilitating acceptance.
Capable of distinguishing good sock fit from too many or too few socks, aiding in proper sock management.
Supports training and education during post-amputation rehabilitation.
Enables recording of limb movement within the socket without multiple sensors or hard surfaces, improving everyday usability.
Improves upon existing clinical procedures for assessing socket fit by providing objective data.
Documented Applications
Self-management of prosthetic socket fit for individuals with lower-limb amputations, including sock management to adjust fit according to limb volume changes.
Use during post-amputation rehabilitation care as a training and education tool in clinics.
Integration into adjustable socket systems to detect quality of socket fit.
Monitoring residual limb motion inside the prosthetic socket during activities such as walking, standing, and swaying.
Providing feedback to patients and clinicians via visual, vibratory, or auditory signals about socket fit quality.
Remote communication of socket fit data to computing devices for analysis and clinician interface.
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