FOOT PROSTHESIS WITH SPRINGY KNÖCHEL

KNEE JOINT FOR A PROSTHESIS

JOINT IN ORTHOPEDIC PROSTHESES AND ORTHESEN

PULSATING PRESSURE CHAMBER IN A PROTHETI LIMB

CONTROL OF DIGITS FOR ARTIFICIAL HAND

A digit mechanism for an artificial hand comprises: a lower digit (44) arranged to be rotatably coupled to a palm unit (12) of the artificial hand; an upper digit (48) rotatably coupled to the lower digit (44); a lower digit rotation mechanism (34, 46, 52, 58) for applying a moment to the lower digit (44) to rotate the lower digit (44) relative to the palm unit (12); an upper digit rotation mechanism (50, 54, 56) for applying a moment to the upper digit (48) to rotate the upper digit (48) relative to the lower digit (44); and a force balancing mechanism (60, 58) for mechanically adjusting the magnitude of the moment applied by the lower digit rotation mechanism (34, 46, 52, 58) and/or the upper digit rotation mechanism (50, 54, 56) in accordance with the magnitude(s) of outside forces resisting rotation of the upper digit (48) and/or the lower digit (44) in order to preferentially apply movement to the digit experiencing lower resistance to movement; wherein the force balancing mechanism ...

COUPLING IN ALIGNMENT FOR ARTIFICIAL LEG

Spring loaded joint for knee prosthesis - has cable around pulley attached to spring one end and elastic band other end

COUPLING IN ALIGNMENT FOR ARTIFICIAL LEG

PROSTHETIC ANKLE: A METHOD OF CONTROLLING BASED ON ADAPTATION TO SPEED

Prosthetic devices and methods of controlling the same are provided. A prosthetic ankle device includes a foot unit and lower limb member moveable relative to one another and defining an ankle angle therebetween. The prosthetic ankle device further includes a controller to operate the device using different ankle angles depending on, for example, a user's gait speed. Methods of controlling the prosthetic ankle device include operating the device at different ankle angles depending on gait speed. For example, the prosthetic ankle device can provide for relatively more dorsiflexson at relatively slower gait speeds and relatively more piantarflexion at relatively faster gait speeds.

ELECTRONICALLY CONTROLLED PROSTHETIC KNEE

TEST PROSTHESIS

REFLECTION LOSS MODULE WITH COIL SPRING FOR PROSTHESES

FOOT PROSTHESIS WITH SPRINGY KNÖCHEL

FOOT PROSTHESIS WITH SPRINGY KNÖCHEL

COIL SPRING SHOCK MODULE PROSTHESIS

An impact-absorbing shock module (22) is provided comprising two pylons (26, 28) telescopingly engaged to permit axial and rotational motion therebetween. A resilient element, preferably a spring (30) or spring-fluid combination, provides axial shock absorption. A tubular torque-resisting cuff (34) provides rotational resistance, or torsion-resistance. An optional fluid valve (50) may be provided so that the fluid pressure may be varied to adjust the torsion resistance of the cuff (34).

Prosthetic foot with enhanced stability and elastic energy return

Method for controlling a change of damping in an artificial joint

ARTIFICIAL LEG

ARTIFICIAL LEG

FREIN DE FLEXION POUR GENOU PROTHETIQUE

Secteur technique : l'invention a pour objet un élément d'appareil de prothèse pour amputation de cuisse, c'est-à-dire un système freinant et bloquant la flexion d'un genou prothétique. Caractéristiques techniques principales : deux pièces : - ressort, un bloc de caoutchouc ou un vérin hydraulique travaillant à la compression, articulé latéralement sur la partie fémorale du genou; - un tracteur prenant appui sur le précédent, se fixant ou non à volonté sur la partie tibiale du genou. Les points de fixation sont en avant de la ligne verticale passant par le centre de rotation du genou. Principales applications : appareil complémentaire des genoux prothétiques freinant à volonté la flexion pour permettre la descente des escaliers ou d'un terrain en pente.

Foot prothesis having cushioned ankle

A simple, inexpensive prosthetic foot (10) is provided incorporating a cushioned ankle including an ankle block (16) formed of a bladder (19) having desired compliance and energy return characteristics. The bladder (19) is sandwiched between a foot plate element (12) and an ankle plate element (14). One or more optional spring elements (18) may be embedded inside the bladder (19) to increase the rigidity of the prosthetic foot (10) and to improve the degree of energy storage and return. The shape of the spring inserts (18) is preferably one that supports compression during relative angular rotation of the ankle plate element (14) and foot plate element (12), such as during toe and heel roll, and also vertical compression, such as in response to vertical shock loads.

Joint for orthopedic prostheses and orthoses

The invention relates to a joint or pivoting connection for orthopaedic prostheses and ortheses, which comprises a joint upper part (1), a joint lower part (2) and, where appropriate, interposed guides (9, 10) (in the following summarized under the term "joint members") and a control element (4) which engages operatively on both sides of a joint member (1; 1, 2) (in the following "articulation joint member") via a respective articulation point (7, 8) spaced apart from an articulation axle (3; 20, 21; 25, 26). To improve this the invention proposes that at least one of said articulation points (7, 8) be arranged so that its position can be varied relative to its articulation joint member (1; 1,2) and be kinematically connected to at least one other joint member (2; 9, 10; 9) via a mechanical forced coupling (11, 12, 13, 14; 15, 16, 17; 18, 24; 30; 31). ...

ADJUSTABLE PROSTHESIS JOINT

MEHRACHSIGES ARTIFICIAL KNEE JOINT

USE OF ABSORBERS WITH IMPROVED END POSITION CUSHIONING IN A DEVICE FOR THE STABILIZATION OF THE INTERMEDIATE EDDY AREAS

ELECTRONICALLY CONTROL KNEE JOINT PROSTHESIS

PROSTHESIS JOINT

ELECTRONICALLY CONTROLLED PROSTHETIC KNEE

The present invention relates to a variable-torque magnetorheologically actuated prosthetic knee (110, 210) which utilizes a plurality of interspersed and alternating rotors (120, 220) and stators (130, 230) to shear magnetorheological fluid (130) in gaps formed therebetween. Advantageously, by operating in the "shear mode" there is substantially no or negligible fluid pressure buildup or change. Moreover, the multiple MR fluid gaps or flux interfaces desirably allow for the production of a large torque at low speed without the use of a transmission and also for a wide dynamic torque range to be achieved and add to the versatility of the invention. One embodiment of the invention allows the rotors (120, 220) and/or stators (130, 230) to close the gaps therebetween to create a frictional torque component, thereby forming a "hybrid" braking system which provides a total torque or damping which is a combination of viscous torque and frictional torque.

VACUUM ASSISTED SUSPENSION SYSTEM

A vacuum assisted suspension system is used to increase or maintain negative pressure or vacuum in a sealed socket cavity as a socket and prosthetic limb attachment mechanism. The system includes a vacuum pump (2) having a housing (8) that defines an enclosed space to receive a fluid. At least one wall of the housing (8) and at least one movable wall (10) define a fluid compartment (12). The system includes a compression transfer element (15) connected to the at least one movable wall (10) and connected to a prosthetic foot (6). The compression transfer element (15) causes the at least one movable wall (10) of the fluid compartment (12) to move and increase the volume of the fluid compartment (12) in response to a compressive force on the prosthetic foot (6) to draw in fluid from the prosthetic socket (4). In the absence of a compressive force, the volume of the fluid compartment (12) decreases thereby expelling fluid out of the fluid compartment (12).

HINGE JOINT IN ORTHOPAEDIC PROSTHESES AND ORTHESES

The invention relates to a hinge joint or swivel coupling in orthopaedic prosthesis and ortheses, with an upper joint component (1), a lower joint component (2) and, if applicable, interposed control arms (9, 10) (hereinafter designated collectively as "hinge joint members") and a control element (4), that effectively engages both sides of a hinge joint member (1; 1, 2) (hereinafter "articulated joint member") each via one hinge point (7, 8) distanced from a pivot (3; 20, 21; 25, 26). To effect an improvement, the invention proposes that at least one of the above-mentioned hinge points (7, 8) is kinematically connected to at least one other hinge joint member (2; 9, 10; 9) via a mechanical geared coupling (11, 12, 13, 14; 15, 16, 17; 18, 24; 30, 31) and is arranged in such a way that it can change position in relation to its articulated joint member (1; 1, 2). Figure 17.

Prosthetic joint

Prosthesis

Hydraulic regulating device of travel amputees femoral

Ce dispositif comprend une soupape (21), sollicitée par le fluide hydraulique à l'encontre d'un moyen élastique de rappel (27) et apte à obturer un orifice du fond du cylindre (3) lorsque la pression du fluide hydraulique, sous la sollicitation du premier piston (5), atteint un seuil prédéterminé, à la suite d'un mouvement involontaire de l'amputé.

JAMBE ARTIFICIELLE

Jambe articielle, comportant un élément composant supérieur et un élément composant inférieur ainsi qu'un mécanisme de genou stabilisé. Le mécanisme de genou comprend un tambour de frein creux 8 et un patin de frein 9 disposé à l'intérieur du tambour, le tambour étant lié à l'un des éléments composants 1 de la jambe et le patin à l'autre élément composant 2 de la jambe, le patin s'appliquant avec friction contre la surface intérieure 18 du tambour de manière à résister à la flexion des éléments composants de la jambe lorsque celle-ci est soumise à une charge. Application : jambe artificielle compacte.

ADAPTABLE PROSTHESIS JOINT

PROSTHESIS FOR LOWER EXTREMITY

FREIN DE FLEXION POUR GENOU PROTHETIQUE

... 1. Secteur technique : l'invention a pour objet un élément d'appareil de prothese pour amputation de cuisse, c'est-à-dire un système freinant et bloquant la flexion d'un genou prothétique 2. Caractéristiques techniques principales : un ressort logé au-dessus de la partie fémorale du genou est comprimé, quand le genou fléchit, par la traction un câble fixé à la partie tibiale antérieure du genou. Cette fixation peut être supprimée à volonté par l'amputé. Le genou redevient alors un genou à flexion libre. 3. Principales applications: appareil complémentaire des genoux prothétiques freinant à volonté la flexion pour permettre la descente d'un escalier ou d'un terrain en pente.

Prosthetic component for the knee joint

Pièce prothétique pour l'articulation du genou déformable entre un bloc (4) relié à un manchon d'emboîtement d'un moignon de cuisse et un corps (9) formant pièce de jambe et contenant un amortisseur à fluide relié par une tige de piston caractérisée par une tige de piston (27) guidée à l'intérieur du corps (9) par une douille à billes maintenue dans un fourreau centré dans le corps (9) par une cuvette servant d'appui à un ressort de compression (32) tendant à soulever une coiffe (31) portée par l'extrémité de la tige (27) du piston (28) déplaçable dans un cylindre (29) délimité en dessous de ladite cuvette (20), ledit cylindre communiquant à sa partie haute et à sa partie basse par des orifices (22, 23) avec des tubulures d'un dispositif de réglage de débit de fluide.

Dampers with improved damping at the end of stroke

An improved damper of the type comprising means for progressively resisting in an exponential manner the advance of a piston under the effect of an axial pressure force, the said means constituting a limit stop opposing any stroke of the piston beyond a defined value of this stroke, and application of the said damper to an intervertebral stabilising device. ...

Apparatus with fluid damping serving as a pivoting means for two objects which can pivot with respect to each other.

Improved shock absorbers with limit of displacement

La chambre limitée par le fond (10) du cylindre (1) et le piston (3) en position libre contient un corps élastique (4) dont le volume est inférieur à celui de ladite chambre, la compression totale du corps élastique (4) déterminant la course du piston (3) sous l'effet d'une force de compression.

ACCOUPLEMENT EN ALIGNEMENT POUR JAMBE ARTIFICIELLE

LA JAMBE ARTIFICIELLE SE COMPOSE D'UNE CUISSE 1, D'UN TIBIA 2 COMPRENANT UN LOGEMENT 3 DE MECANISME DE GENOU ET D'UN ORGANE D'ACCOUPLEMENT EN ALIGNEMENT 4. L'EXTREMITE INFERIEURE DE LA CUISSE EST CONVEXE ET L'EXTREMITE SUPERIEURE DU LOGEMENT DU MECANISME DE GENOU EST CONVEXE. LES FACES ADJACENTES SUPERIEURE ET INFERIEURE DE L'ORGANE D'ACCOUPLEMENT ONT UNE CONCAVITE CORRESPONDANTE. UN BOULON 5 PASSE A TRAVERS DES TROUS 9A, 4A ET 8A DANS LES PARTIES A RELIER ENTRE ELLES DE FACON REGLABLE. L'INVENTION PERMET UNE VARIATION CONSIDERABLE DE REGLAGES EN ALIGNEMENT TOUT EN MAINTENANT MINIMAL L'ESPACE OCCUPE PAR L'ORGANE D'ACCOUPLEMENT DANS UNE DIRECTION VERTICALE.

JOINT FOR ORTHOPEDIC PROSTHESES AND ORTHOSES

VACUUM ASSISTED SUSPENSION SYSTEM

A vacuum assisted suspension system is used to increase or maintain negative pressure or vacuum in a sealed socket cavity as a socket and prosthetic limb attachment mechanism. The system includes a vacuum pump (2) having a housing (8) that defines an enclosed space to receive a fluid. At least one wall of the housing (8) and at least one movable wall (10) define a fluid compartment (12). The system includes a compression transfer element (15) connected to the at least one movable wall (10) and connected to a prosthetic foot (6). The compression transfer element (15) causes the at least one movable wall (10) of the fluid compartment (12) to move and increase the volume of the fluid compartment (12) in response to a compressive force on the prosthetic foot (6) to draw in fluid from the prosthetic socket (4). In the absence of a compressive force, the volume of the fluid compartment (12) decreases thereby expelling fluid out of the fluid compartment (12).

PULSATING PRESSURE CHAMBER IN A PROSTHETIC LIMB

An apparatus and method 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 (504) shaped to receive a residuum of a limb (502) of an amputee and configured to connect to a prosthetic limb. The socket (504) forming a chamber (505) between the socket (504) and the residuum (502) when the socket receives the residuum. The apparatus also includes a pressure control device (520) operably connected to the chamber (505) 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 adjust pressure within the chamber based on manual and automatic inputs.

VACUUM ASSISTED SUSPENSION SYSTEM

PROSTHETIC PART FOR the ARTICULATION OF the KNEE

HYDRAULIC CONTROL ARRANGEMENT RUNNING FEMORAL AMPUTEES.

PROSTHESIS FOR LOWER EXTREMITY

La prothèse pour membre inférieur comporte un organe de réception (6) d'un moignon de cuisse monté sur un élément de support (1), une jambe (3) montée sur ledit élément de support (1) par une liaison pivot (2) formant une articulation de genou pour permettre une flexion ou une extension de la jambe (3) par rapport à l'organe de réception (6), et un système d'amortissement (4) pour amortir les efforts de flexion ou d'extension. Le système d'amortissement (4) est monté d'une part sur l'axe de la liaison pivot (2), et d'autre part sur une première extrémité d'une bascule (7) montée à pivotement sur la jambe (3), et en ce qu'une biellette (8) est montée d'une part sur une seconde extrémité de la bascule (7) et d'autre part sur l'élément de support (1).

PROSTHETIC FOOT WITH ENHANCED STABILITY AND ELASTIC ENERGY RETURN

A prosthetic foot comprises an attachment member and two or more flexible members. The attachment member can include a connector configured to connect the attachment member to a user or another prosthetic device. The two or more flexible members can be rotatably attached to the attachment member by rotatable joints such that the flexible members can both rotate and flex relative to the attachment member when the prosthetic foot contacts the ground.

ARTIFICIAL JOINT

The invention relates to an artificial joint (1), in particular an artificial hand, comprising several bodies (2, 3), connected to each other by means of joints. The individual bodies (2, 3) are connected to each other by means of an elastic connecting element (4) such as to swivel about several axes. A tensile force is introduced by means of a tractive mechanism (8, 9) for the respective retraction and extension of each body (2, 3). According to the invention, a high loading for the transfer of large forces at any joint position and a number of degrees of freedom for various gripping functions may be achieved, whereby the joint gap (7), between adjacent joint surfaces (5, 6), may be reduced where necessary, by means of the tractive mechanism (8, 9), such that the desired number of degrees of freedom can be achieved with a simultaneous stiffening of the joint (1).

Actuators and Methods of Use

Actuators and methods of use are provided. An actuator may comprise an inner member made from an elastic material and defining a compartment for receiving an actuating fluid, the inner member being moveable in a longitudinal direction from a relaxed state to an expanded state by introducing an actuating fluid into the inner member; and an outer member made from an inelastic material and being disposed around the elastic inner member to control expansion of the elastic inner member in a radial direction, the outer member being moveable from a folded relaxed configuration to an unfolded extended configuration as the inner member moves from the relaxed state to the expanded state, wherein the movement of the actuator between the relaxed state and the expanded state causes a movement of a structure to which the actuator is attached. 1. A hydraulically operated lattice device comprising:a first member;a second member; and an inner member made from an elastic material and defining a compartment for receiving an actuating fluid, the inner member being moveable in a longitudinal direction from a relaxed state to an expanded state by introducing an actuating fluid into the inner member; and', 'an outer member made from an inelastic material and being disposed around the elastic inner member to control expansion of the elastic inner member in a radial direction, the outer member being moveable from a folded relaxed configuration to an unfolded extended configuration as the inner member moves from the relaxed state to the expanded state,, 'an actuator connected to the first member at its first end and to the second member at its second end, the actuator comprisingwherein the movement of the actuator between the relaxed state and the expanded state cause a movement of at least one of the first member and the second member relative to the other member.2. The lattice device of wherein the outer member is connected to the elastic inner member discontinuously at one or more contact ...

ARTIFICIAL LEG WITH TWO PARTS ARTICULATED LOWER LEG

ELECTRONICALLY CONTROLLED PROSTHETIC KNEE

The present invention relates to a variable-torque magnetorheologically actuated prosthetic knee (110, 210) which utilizes a plurality of interspersed and alternating rotors (120, 220) and stators (130, 230) to shear magnetorheological fluid (130) in gaps formed therebetween. Advantageously, by operating in the "shear mode" there is substantially no or negligible fluid pressure buildup or change. Moreover, the multiple MR fluid gaps or flux interfaces desirably allow for the production of a large torque at low speed without the use of a transmission and also for a wide dynamic torque range to be achieved and add to the versatility of the invention. One embodiment of the invention allows the rotors (120, 220) and/or stators (130, 230) to close the gaps therebetween to create a frictional torque component, thereby forming a "hybrid" braking system which provides a total torque or damping which is a combination of viscous torque and frictional torque.

PROSTHESIS

The invention relates to a prosthesis comprising two prosthesis parts (1, 3) connected for mutual movement which are characterized by actuable means (21) for locking respectively releasing the prosthesis parts (1, 3) relative to each other. The parts (1, 3) are preferably connected for mutual movement by means of an artificial joint (2) comprising a first (17) and a second (18) joint part. The locking means consist for instance of a tiltable locking element (21) under spring bias, a part of which co-acts in the locked position with a recess (27) in one of the joint parts (17), whereby tilting of the locking element (21) is bounded, and which in the released position is substantially freely tiltable. The prosthesis can be further provided with means (16) for actively placing the locking element (21) out of the active reach of the limiting recess (27). One (1) of the two prosthesis parts (1, 3) connected for mutual movement is formed by means for fixing the prosthesis to the remaining part ...

MULTIAXIS ARTIFICIAL KNEE JOINT

Vacuum assisted suspension system

A vacuum assisted suspension system is used to increase or maintain negative pressure or vacuum in a sealed socket cavity as a socket and prosthetic limb attachment mechanism. The system includes a vacuum pump (2) having a housing (8) that defines an enclosed space to receive a fluid. At least one wall of the housing (8) and at least one movable wall (10) define a fluid compartment (12). The system includes a compression transfer element (15) connected to the at least one movable wall (10) and connected to a prosthetic foot (6). The compression transfer element (15) causes the at least one movable wall (10) of the fluid compartment (12) to move and increase the volume of the fluid compartment (12) in response to a compressive force on the prosthetic foot (6) to draw in fluid from the prosthetic socket (4). In the absence of a compressive force, the volume of the fluid compartment (12) decreases thereby expelling fluid out of the fluid compartment (12).

FOOT PROSTHESIS HAVING CUSHIONED ANKLE

A simple, inexpensive prosthetic foot is provided incorporating a cushioned ankle including an ankle block formed of a resilient material or bladder having desired compliance and energy return characteristics. The ankle block is sandwiched between a foot element and an ankle element. One or more openings extends through the ankle block with a substantially transverse orientation relative to a forward walking motion. The size and shape of these openings, as well as the insertion of different types of stiffeners therein, provide desired performance characteristics to the ankle block. When the ankle block takes the form of one or more inflatable bladders, the pressure within these bladders is individually controlled by valves to provide desired performance characteristics to different portions of the prosthetic foot. A pump system can also be used to control and generate fluid pressure into these bladders. A preferred pump system generates fluid pressure based upon the movement of the amputee ...

FOOT PROSTHESIS

... 2127691 9410942 PCTABS00032 A foot prosthesis comprising a front plate (1) and a heel (2). The heel (2) is C-shaped with the opening (5) of the C facing the back of the prosthesis. The front plate has a stretched S shape and comprises a forward portion (10), a rear portion (11) and a middle portion (13) where the curvature changes direction. The front plate and the heel each comprise a plurality of layers of carbon, glass or aramide fibres. The fibre layers of the front plate and those of the heel are respectively coated with one or more layers of woven material then impregnated and shaped.

APPARATUS HAS DAMPING FLUID BEING USED AS MEANS OF SWIVELLING FOR TWO OBJECTS WHICH CAN SWIVEL ONE Compared to the OTHER

ELECTRONICALLY CONTROLLED PROSTHETIC KNEE

The present invention relates to a variable-torque magnetorheologically actuated prosthetic knee (110, 210) which utilizes a plurality of interspersed and alternating rotors (120, 220) and stators (130, 230) to shear magnetorheological fluid (130) in gaps formed therebetween. Advantageously, by operating in the "shear mode" there is substantially no or negligible fluid pressure buildup or change. Moreover, the multiple MR fluid gaps or flux interfaces desirably allow for the production of a large torque at low speed without the use of a transmission and also for a wide dynamic torque range to be achieved and add to the versatility of the invention. One embodiment of the invention allows the rotors (120, 220) and/or stators (130, 230) to close the gaps therebetween to create a frictional torque component, thereby forming a "hybrid" braking system which provides a total torque or damping which is a combination of viscous torque and frictional torque.

COIL SPRING SHOCK MODULE PROSTHESIS

An impact-absorbing shock module (22) is provided comprising two pylons (26, 28) telescopingly engaged to permit axial and rotational motion therebetween. A resilient element, preferably a spring (30) or spring-fluid combination, provides axial shock absorption. A tubular torque-resisting cuff (34) provides rotational resistance, or torsion- resistance. An optional fluid valve (50) may be provided so that the fluid pressure may be varied to adjust the torsion resistance of the cuff (34).

PULSATING PRESSURE CHAMBER AND METHOD FOR ENHANCED BLOOD FLOW

An apparatus and method for providing positive and negative pressure to a portion of a body for the purpose of improving blood flow in that portion of the body. The apparatus including a pressure chamber (12) configured to generally conform to and surround a portion of the body, with the chamber adapted to receive the portion of the body within an opening in the chamber. The chamber also including a flexible liner (24) adapted to surround the portion. The liner is configured to extend beyond the chamber when the portion covered by the liner is placed within the chamber with the chamber sealing to the liner. Additionally including a pressure control device (18) having sources of positive and negative pressure. The device being operably connected to the chamber to provide positive and negative pressure to the portion within the chamber in a predetermined, controlled manner. A pressure patch is also described.

ADJUSTABLE PROSTHESIS JOINT

An adjustable prosthesis joint, such as a prosthesis ankle or a prosthesis foot, and intended primarily for causing setting of the angular relation between an attachment means (4) forming part thereof for affixing the prosthesis joint (1) to a cooperating body part, and a detail (17) being angularly displaceably connected thereto, whereby the prosthesis joint is provided with means adapted to be actuatable to permit or to prevent such angular displacement, respectively, whereby said means is constituted by two communicating chambers (3a, 3b) containing a flow medium, with a shiftable valve (13) provided between the chambers, and at least one body designed as a piston (8, 9), rotatably arranged in relation to said chambers and movably arranged therein and adapted to permit flow of flow medium between the two chambers, when the valve is open and under influence of an external shifting force being displaced in said chambers (3a, 3b) in order to alter the relative sizes thereof.

DAMPERS MANUFACTURING GASKETS LIMIT DISPLACEMENT.

Artificial leg with controlled knee movement - has progressive braking effect by spring to permit descent of stair or inclined surface

Control device for above knee prosthesis

APPLICATION OF AN IMPROVED DAMPER TO AN INTERVERTEBRAL STABILIZATION DEVICE

This invention relates to an application of an improved damper, of the type comprising means for progressively resisting, in exponential manner, the advance of a piston under the effect of a force of axial compression, said means constituting a stop opposing any displacement of the piston beyond a determined value of this displacement, to an intervertebral stabilization device.

PULSATING PRESSURE CHAMBER IN A PROSTHETIC LIMB

An apparatus and method 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 (504) shaped to receive a residuum of a limb (502) of an amputee and configured to connect to a prosthetic limb. The socket (504) forming a chamber (505) between the socket (504) and the residuum (502) when the socket receives the residuum. The apparatus also includes a pressure control device (520) operably connected to the chamber (505) 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 adjust pressure within the chamber based on manual and automatic inputs.

APPAREIL A AMORTISSEMENT FLUIDE SERVANT DE MOYEN DE PIVOTEMENT POUR DEUX OBJETS POUVANT PIVOTER L'UN PAR RAPPORT A L'AUTRE

APPAREIL AMORTISSEUR COMPRENANT UN MANCHON 20, UN ARBRE 30 ET UNE PIECE DE PARTAGE 40, DEUX ANNEAUX 31, 32 MONTES DANS LE MANCHON 20 ETANT AMENAGES SUR L'ARBRE 30, UNE PAROI DE SEPARATION 33 S'ETENDANT ENTRE LES DEUX ANNEAUX, LA PIECE DE PARTAGE 40 ETANT FIXEE SUR LE MANCHON 20 POUR SUBDIVISER EN DEUX COMPARTIMENTS 70, 80 L'ESPACE ENTRE L'ARBRE 30 ET LE MANCHON 20, UN DISTRIBUTEUR DE FLUIDE REMPLISSANT CET ESPACE CHAQUE FOIS QU'IL Y A UNE PERTE DE FLUIDE. L'INVENTION TROUVE SON APPLICATION PRINCIPALE DANS LA PROTHESE DU GENOU.

MULTIAXIS JOINT, ESPECIALLY ARTIFICIAL KNEE JOINT

The aim of the invention is to provide a multiaxis joint, especially an artificial knee joint whose axes of rotation (5, 6, 7, 8) are perpendicular to one plane and which allows for a harmonious gait, modeled after the natural function of the knee. To this end, the upper platform (2) can be swiveled relative to the lower platform (1) from a rest position to a position of maximum deflection, and the distance of the platforms (1, 2) to each other in the swiveled position is immediately reduced by deflecting them from the rest position. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, at least one axis (8) is provided with a kind of brake that slows down the rotational movement about said axis (8).

An orthopaedic or prosthetic joint

An orthopædic or prosthetic joint comprising a linkage having a number of fixed-length links (10, 12, 14, 16, 18) and a spring link (30) of variable length, wherein there are five fixed-length links (10, 12, 14, 16, 18) which are pivotally connected together in a geometric pattern such that the spring link (30) acts to hold the joint in any one of a number of angles of flexion (Figure 1, Figure 2, Figure 3, Figure 4). ...

Joint for orthopedic prostheses and orthoses

Joint in artificial limb for orthopaedic and orthopedic mechanism

ELECTRONICALLY CONTROLLED PROSTHETIC KNEE

The present invention relates to a variable-torque magnetorheologically actuated prosthetic knee (110, 210) which utilizes a plurality of interspersed and alternating rotors (120, 220) and stators (130, 230) to shear magnetorheological fluid (130) in gaps formed therebetween. Advantageously, by operating in the "shear mode" there is substantially no or negligible fluid pressure buildup or change. Moreover, the multiple MR fluid gaps or flux interfaces desirably allow for the production of a large torque at low speed without the use of a transmission and also for a wide dynamic torque range to be achieved and add to the versatility of the invention. One embodiment of the invention allows the rotors (120, 220) and/or stators (130, 230) to close the gaps therebetween to create a frictional torque component, thereby forming a "hybrid" braking system which provides a total torque or damping which is a combination of viscous torque and frictional torque.

PROSTHETIC FOOT WITH ADJUSTABLE HEEL HEIGHT

A prosthetic foot having an adjustable height heel includes a frame portion with an ankle link pivotally supported on the frame portion at a first pivot axis. A detent rod is pivotally connected to the ankle at a second pivot axis, and a detent member is pivotally affixed to the frame portion at a third pivot axis. The detent member is selectively operable to receive and releasably retain a length of the detent rod therein so that the length of the detent rod extending between the second and third pivot axes may be selectably adjusted. When the length of the rod is so adjusted, the angular relationship of the frame portion and the ankle link is changed thereby changing the heel height of the foot. The detent mechanism may be activated by various means including fluidic means, mechanical means, electromechanical means, and the like.

METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR IMPROVED INTERFACE BETWEEN THE HUMAN BODY AND PROSTHETIC OR SIMILAR DEVICES

Apparatus is provided to cushion between a prosthetic socket and an amputee's residual limb. A plurality of putty-filled packets are assembled into a liner that, when assembled, provides a generally smooth contact surface toward the residual limb. At least one of the packets has a fluid bladder positioned between the putty material and the socket, and the fluid volume in the bladder can be adjusted to affect the fit of the assembly on the residual limb. Methods of fabrication, fitting, and use of such prosthetic devices are disclosed.

DRIVING MODULE, MOTION ASSISTANCE APPARATUS INCLUDING DRIVING MODULE, AND METHOD OF CONTROLLING MOTION ASSISTANCE APPARATUS

The present invention relates to a driving module, a motion assistance apparatus including the driving module, and a method of controlling the motion assistance apparatus. According to an embodiment, the driving module comprises: a driving source provided on one side of an object to transmit power; an input side rotary body connected to the driving source to rotate; and a first decelerator and a second decelerator which operate using the power received from the input side rotary body, wherein a reduction gear ratio from the input side rotary body to an output terminal of the first decelerator can differ from a reduction gear ratio from the input side rotary body to an output terminal of the second decelerator. COPYRIGHT KIPO 2016 ...

ORTHOPAEDIC APPARATUS FOR WALKING

... 1. Orthopaedic apparatus (1, 1') for walking comprising a first leg-like member (2, 2') and a second knee- like member (3, 16) rotatably mounted at an upper end (2a) of said first member (2, 2'), is characterised in that it comprises a third foot-like member (5, 17) rotatably mounted at a lower end (2b, 2b') of said first member (2, 2'), and in that it comprises an actuator (8, 8') hingedly joined by one of its ends to said second knee-like member (3, 16) and by its opposed end to said third foot-like member (5, 17), said actuator (8, 8') being capable of driving the rotation of said second knee-like member (3, 16) when said third foot-like member (5, 17) swings when walking due to the weight load of the user.

ARTIFICIAL JOINT

The invention relates to an artificial joint (1), in particular an artificial hand, comprising several bodies (2, 3), connected to each other by means of joints. The individual bodies (2, 3) are connected to each other by means of an elastic connecting element (4) such as to swivel about several axes. A tensile force is introduced by means of a tractive mechanism (8, 9) for the respective retraction and extension of each body (2, 3). According to the invention, a high loading for the transfer of large forces at any joint position and a number of degrees of freedom for various gripping functions may be achieved, whereby the joint gap (7), between adjacent joint surfaces (5, 6), may be reduced where necessary, by means of the tractive mechanism (8, 9), such that the desired number of degrees of freedom can be achieved with a simultaneous stiffening of the joint (1).

POWERED ARTIFICIAL KNEE WITH AGONIST-ANTAGONIST ACTUATION

TEST PROSTHESIS

ARTIFICIAL LEG

An artificial leg has knee stabilisation in the stance phase provided by a hydraulic piston and cylinder assembly (22) for resisting flexion at the knee. The resistance to flexion is controlled according to the axial load applied to the leg by means of a mechanism which allows movement of a knee axis (16) of rotation relative to a main shin component (20), the knee axis (16) being defined by a tubular shaft (14) mounted on a resilient arm (18). Movement of the knee axis (16) is detected by a rocking connector member (40) mounted on a knee chassis, one end of the connector member engaging a trigger element (36T) which remains stationary with the main shin component (20) and the other end engaging a control member (44R) on the piston and cylinder assembly (22) at a position adjacent its connection to the knee chassis. Application of an axial load results in the connector member (40) rocking about a rocking axis to move the control member (44R) which thereby increases resistance to flexion ...

MULTIAXIS JOINT, ESPECIALLY ARTIFICIAL KNEE JOINT

The aim of the invention is to provide a multiaxis joint, especially an artificial knee joint whose axes of rotation (5, 6, 7, 8) are perpendicular to one plane and which allows for a harmonious gait, modeled after the natural function of the knee. To this end, the upper platform (2) can be swiveled relative to the lower platform (1) from a rest position to a position of maximum deflection, and the distance of the platforms (1, 2) to each other in the swiveled position is immediately reduced by deflecting them from the rest position. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, at least one axis (8) is provided with a kind of brake that slows down the rotational movement about said axis (8).

Artificial limb

FLUID ACTUATOR, AND STARTUP-OPERATION ASSISTANCE DEVICE AND OPERATION ASSISTANCE DEVICE THAT HAVE THE FLUID ACTUATOR

Provided are a fluid actuator operating smoothly, and an operation assistance device and a startup-operation assistance device that have the fluid actuator. The fluid actuator has a tube that is swollen as fluid is supplied through a fluid supply tube and also has a sleeve that surrounds the tube and whose opposite ends are fixed to opposite ends of the tube. The sleeve is formed by braiding first fiber cords and second fiber cords along the outer circumferential surface of the tube. The first fiber cords are wound left handed around the tube, in the longitudinal direction of the tube, and the second fiber cords are wound right-handed around the tube, in the longitudinal direction. The sleeve has a first region in which the first fiber cords and the second fiber cords are wound while being made to cross at a first angle, and also has a second region in which they are wound while being made to cross at a second angle different from the first angle.

Control of continuous phase pH using visible light to activate pH-dependent fibers and gels in a controlled and reversible manner

A transparent polyelectrolyte fiber or gel, such as cross-linked polyacrylic acid, which contracts and expands upon the addition of an acid or base to an aqueous medium solution, is placed in the same solution with a pH dependent dye, a colored photochromatic indicator dye. The dye preferably has a pAa value that is the same as the pH at a null contraction point of the fiber. By irradiating the solution with light of a wavelength of the absorption band of either the acid or base form of the dye, the solution pH is made to change, and the fiber is made to expand or contract, depending upon the wavelength. Thus, light energy is readily converted to work energy and may be used to power a pump, for example, or an artificial muscle can be powered via an optical fiber.

Prosthetics using curved dampening cylinders

FOOT PROSTHESIS HAVING CUSHIONED ANKLE

A simple, inexpensive prosthetic foot is provided incorporating a cushioned ankle including an ankle block (16) formed of a resilient material or bladder having desired compliance and energy return characteristics. The ankle block is sandwiched between a foot element (12) and an ankle element (14). One or more openings extends through the ankle block with a substantially transverse orientation relative to a forward walking motion. The size and shape of these openings, as well as the insertion of different types of stiffeners (52) therein, provide desired performance characteristics to the ankle block. When the ankle block takes the form of one or more inflatable bladders, the pressure within these bladders is individually controlled by valves to provide desired performance characteristics to different portions of the prosthetic foot. A pump system (90) can also be used to control and generate fluid pressure into these bladders. A preferred pump system generates fluid pressure based upon ...

FOOT PROSTHESIS HAVING CUSHIONED ANKLE

A simple, inexpensive prosthetic foot is provided incorporating a cushioned ankle including an ankle block formed of a resilient material or bladder having desired compliance and energy return characteristics. The ankle block is sandwiched between a foot element and an ankle element. One or more openings extends through the ankle block with a substantially transverse orientation relative to a forward walking motion. The size and shape of these openings, as well as the insertion of different types of stiffeners therein, provide desired performance characteristics to the ankle block. When the ankle block takes the form of one or more inflatable bladders, the pressure within these bladders is individually controlled by valves to provide desired performance characteristics to different portions of the prosthetic foot. A pump system can also be used to control and generate fluid pressure into these bladders. A preferred pump system generates fluid pressure based upon the movement of the amputee ...

ANATOMICALLY-CONFIGURED ADJUSTABLE UPPER EXTREMITY PROSTHETIC DEVICE

An upper extremity prosthetic device is provided that comprises three main components, namely, an arm cuff, a forearm section and a distal connector. The arm cuff is adjustable to accommodate lower arms of different sizes. The forearm section may be constructed in certain limited sizes to accommodate different sized forearm residual limbs. The distal connector is designed to connect to any of the forearm section configurations, and the distal connector enables any terminal device to be attached to the connector. The components may be mixed and matched in various combinations to fit the physical dimensions of virtually any amputee. The interchangeable parts will accommodate a wide range of residual limb geometries, overall sizes and lengths. Embodiments of the present invention minimize the need for time and resource-intensive customized fitting and create an affordable, relatively low-cost prosthetic interface.

A LOWER LIMB PROSTHESIS

A lower limb prosthesis comprises an attachment section (10), a shin section (12), a foot section (14), a knee joint (16) pivotally connecting the attachment section (10) and the shin section (12), and an ankle joint (22) pivotally connecting the shin section (12) and the foot section (14). The knee joint includes a dynamically adjustable knee flexion control device (18) for damping knee flexion. The prosthesis further comprises a plurality of sensors (52, 53, 54, 85, 87) each arranged to generate sensor signals indicative of at least one respective kinetic or kinematic parameter of locomotion or of walking environment, and an electronic control system (100) coupled to the sensors (52, 53, 54, 85, 87) and to the knee flexion control device (18) in order dynamically and automatically to modify the flexion control setting of the knee joint (16) in response to signals from the sensors. When the inclination sensor signals indicate descent of a downward incline, the damping resistance of the ...

ADJUSTABLE PROSTHESIS JOINT

An adjustable prosthesis joint, such as a prosthesis ankle or a prosthesis foot, and intended primarily for causing setting of the angular relation between an attachment means (4) forming part thereof for affixing the prosthesis joint (1) to a cooperating body part, and a detail (17) being angularly displaceably connected thereto, whereby the prosthesis joint is provided with means adapted to be actuatable to permit or to prevent such angular displacement, respectively, whereby said means is constituted by two communicating chambers (3a, 3b) containing a flow medium, with a shiftable valve (13) provided between the chambers, and at least one body designed as a piston (8, 9), rotatably arranged in relation to said chambers and movably arranged therein and adapted to permit flow of flow medium between the two chambers, when the valve is open and under influence of an external shifting force being displaced in said chambers (3a, 3b) in order to alter the relative sizes thereof.

Model-based neuromechanical controller for a robotic leg

MODEL-BASED NEUROMECHANICAL CONTROLLER FOR A ROBOTIC LEG

A model-based neuromechanical controller for a robotic limb having at least one joint includes a finite state machine configured to receive feedback data relating to the state of the robotic limb and to determine the state of the robotic limb, a muscle model processor configured to receive state information from the finite state machine and, using muscle geometry and reflex architecture information and a neuromuscular model, to determine at least one desired joint torque or stiffness command to be sent to the robotic limb, and a joint command processor configured to command the biomimetric torques and stiffnesses determined by the muscle model processor at the robotic limb joint. The feedback data is preferably provided by at least one sensor mounted at each joint of the robotic limb. In a preferred embodiment, the robotic limb is a leg and the finite state machine is synchronized to the leg gait cycle.

TEST PROSTHESIS

A test prosthesis with a thigh section (6), a calf section (7), a joint (4) connecting the two sections and a knee section (1) is provided in which the knee section (1) is joined to the tigh (6) or calf (7) section by a connecting unit (8) which permits relative movement between the joined sections in a direction inclined to the leg axis. It is thus possible to adjust the positions of the sections in relation to one another making it a simple matter to select the correct prosthesis for an amputee at the thigh by trying out various components.

ADAPTIVE COMPRESSION PROSTHETIC SOCKET SYSTEM AND METHOD

An incompressible fluid is used to adjust fit for a prosthetic device, the use of a closed loop control system and force, motion, and position measurement to aid with algorithms controlling the fit of the prosthetic device to a residual limb. Embodiments include automatic actuation, based on triggering of threshold values from sensors, a powered full release feature, use of hydraulic transducers to transfer fluid pressure to force on a limb, and customizable pressure distribution pads and embedded valves in transducers to prevent backflow and allow stabilization of the residual limb. A retrofit system may be used for existing prosthetic sockets. A triggering algorithm utilizes measured force exceeding a threshold or thresholds with a characteristic pulse signature and a triggering of release based on a combination of total motion and measured force below a threshold or thresholds. 1. A prosthetic device operable to sense parameters including ambulatory state of a user and some or all of force and pressure applied by the device to a residual limb of the user , and to control hydraulic actuators responsive to the sensed parameters to control the fit of the prosthetic device to the residual limb.2. The prosthetic device of claim 1 , wherein each of the hydraulic actuators comprises a plenum and a plurality of bellows actuator portions.3. The prosthetic device of claim 1 , wherein the ambulatory state includes whether the user is standing or sitting.4. The prosthetic device of claim 3 , wherein the ambulatory state further comprises whether the user is walking or stationary.5. The prosthetic device of further comprising:a plurality of actuators;a liner physically coupled to the actuators and adapted to be placed on the residual limb of the user; anda socket adapted to receive the liner. The present application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/793,381, filed Mar. 15, 2013, which application is incorporated by reference herein in its ...

ADJUSTABLE PROSTHESIS LEG

A prosthetic system includes a prosthetic knee having a controller and a hydraulic unit pivotally connected to the controller. The hydraulic includes a reserve hydraulic cylinder, a brake hydraulic cylinder, and a hydraulic cylinder having a lower hydraulic compartment. A flow system fluidly connects the hydraulic cylinder, the reserve hydraulic cylinder, and the brake cylinder. The flow system has first and second flow paths in communication with the lower hydraulic compartment and the reserve hydraulic cylinder. The first flow path is in communication with lower hydraulic compartment and the reserve hydraulic cylinder via the brake cylinder. The second flow path bypasses the brake hydraulic cylinder. 1. A prosthetic system comprising: a controller; and', a hydraulic cylinder having a lower hydraulic compartment;', 'a reserve hydraulic cylinder;', 'a brake hydraulic cylinder; and', 'a flow system fluidly connecting the hydraulic cylinder, the reserve hydraulic cylinder, and the brake cylinder, the flow system having first and second flow paths in communication with the lower hydraulic compartment and the reserve hydraulic cylinder, the first flow path being in communication with the lower hydraulic compartment and the reserve hydraulic cylinder via the brake hydraulic cylinder, and the second flow path bypassing the brake hydraulic cylinder., 'a hydraulic unit pivotally connected to the controller, the hydraulic unit including], 'a prosthetic knee including2. The prosthetic system of claim 1 , wherein the first flow path is in fluid communication with the lower hydraulic compartment claim 1 , the upper hydraulic compartment claim 1 , the reserve hydraulic cylinder claim 1 , and the brake hydraulic cylinder.3. The prosthetic system of claim 2 , wherein the second flow path is in fluid communication with the lower hydraulic component and the reserve hydraulic cylinder.4. The prosthetic system of claim 1 , further comprising a connecting mechanism pivotally connected ...

HYDRAULIC VALVE

A valve includes a case comprising a pin bore, a pin configured to move axially in the pin bore, wherein the pin seals the pin bore, a first channel in communication with the pin bore, a second channel in communication with the pin bore, wherein the second channel comprises a restrictor at a location offset from the first channel, a third channel in communication with the pin bore, wherein the third channel comprises a check valve, and the second channel and third channel are in communication with each other. The valve can be a miniature valve that is used in the control of hydraulic fluid in prosthesis, such as a prosthetic ankle joint. 1. A valve , comprising:a case comprising a pin bore;a pin configured to move axially in the pin bore, wherein the pin seals the pin bore;a first channel in communication with the pin bore;a second channel in communication with the pin bore wherein the second channel comprises a restrictor at a location offset from the first channel;a third channel in communication with the pin bore, wherein the third channel comprises a check valve, and the second channel and third channel are in communication with each other.2. The valve of claim 1 , wherein the case comprises a partly bored hole claim 1 , and an insert is placed in the partly bored hole claim 1 , and the pin bore is in the axial center of the insert.3. The valve of claim 1 , wherein the case comprises a partly bored hole claim 1 , and an insert is placed in the partly bored hole claim 1 , and the pin bore is in the axial center of the insert claim 1 , and the insert includes an annular space around the periphery of the insert and a plurality of holes equidistantly spaced around the annulus claim 1 , wherein the holes extend from the annular space to the pin bore.4. The valve of claim 1 , wherein the case comprises a partly bored hole claim 1 , and an insert is placed in the partly bored hole claim 1 , and the pin bore is in the axial center of the insert claim 1 , and the insert ...

PROSTHETIC DEVICE, SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR INCREASING VACUUM ATTACHMENT

A prosthetic system includes a prosthetic foot defining an upper surface and having a flexible configuration and a pump system attached to the prosthetic foot. The pump system includes a pump mechanism defining a fluid chamber having variable configuration and an actuating part. The actuating part is arranged to selectively engage with and separate a distance from the upper surface of the foot plate to move the pump mechanism between a first position in which a volume of the fluid chamber is zero or near-zero and a second position in which the volume of the fluid chamber is expanded relative to the first position. The volume of the fluid chamber increases when the actuating part moves away from the upper surface of the foot plate. 1. A prosthetic system comprising:a prosthetic foot including a foot plate defining an upper surface and having a flexible configuration; anda pump system attached to the prosthetic foot, the pump system including a pump mechanism defining a fluid chamber having a variable configuration and an actuating part arranged to selectively engage with and separate a distance from the upper surface of the foot plate to move the pump mechanism between a first position in which a volume of the fluid chamber is zero or near-zero and a second position in which the volume of the fluid chamber is expanded relative to the first position, wherein the volume of the fluid chamber increases when the actuating part moves away from the upper surface of the foot plate.2. The prosthetic system of claim 1 , wherein the volume of the fluid chamber increases as the prosthetic foot moves from a heel strike toward a foot strike.3. The prosthetic system of claim 1 , wherein the actuating part moves away from the upper surface of the foot plate during a toe strike of the prosthetic foot.4. The prosthetic system of claim 1 , wherein the volume of the fluid chamber deceases when the actuating part engages with the upper surface of the foot plate.5. The prosthetic system ...

SINGLE SPOOL VALVE/MOTOR CONTROL FOR BIDIRECTIONAL MOVEMENT OF HYDRAULIC PROSTHETIC AND HALL EFFECT SENSOR FOR FORCE MEASUREMENT

A hydraulic prosthetic device has upper and lower portions and a hydraulic cylinder coupled thereto for damping relative motion. The cylinder has a movable piston and a first and second chamber. A three-way valve includes a housing and a movable portion cooperating to define a hydraulic circuit. The movable portion has a master port, an inlet port and an outlet port, and the housing has an inlet opening, an outlet opening, and a master opening each positioned to fluidly communicate with the respective port. The inlet port and/or the inlet opening, and the outlet port and/or the outlet opening are shaped such that movement of the movable portion of the valve relative to the housing varies a resistance to the fluid flow related to movement or the prosthetic portions in both directions. 1. A hydraulic prosthetic with control of bidirectional movement , comprising:a prosthetic having an upper portion and a lower portion movably connected to the upper portion;a hydraulic cylinder having a movable piston and a first chamber and a second chamber, the hydraulic cylinder coupled to the upper and lower portions of the prosthetic such that movement of the lower portion relative to the upper portion in a first direction causes the first chamber to reduce in size and the second chamber to expand and movement of the lower portion relative to the upper portion in a second direction causes the first chamber to expand and the second camber to reduce in size; a housing and a movable portion that is movable relative to the housing, the housing and movable portion cooperating to define a hydraulic circuit;', 'the movable portion having a master port, an inlet port and an outlet port, the master port being in fluid communication with the inlet and outlet ports;', 'the housing having an inlet opening positioned to selectively fluidly communicate with the inlet port of the movable portion, an outlet opening positioned to selectively fluidly communicate with the outlet port of the movable ...

PROSTHETIC ANKLE JOINT MECHANISM

A self-aligning prosthetic foot and ankle assembly has an ankle unit pivotally mounting a foot component. The ankle unit contains a hydraulic piston and cylinder assembly having a piston which is linearly movable within a cylinder. The axis of the cylinder is coincident with a shin axis defined by a shin connection interface on the ankle unit. Bypass passages containing damping resistance control valves provide continuous hydraulic damping of dorsi and plantar ankle flexion, the unit being such that, over the major part of the range of damped movement, there is no resilient biasing in either the dorsi or the plantar direction. This confers a number of advantages, including stabilisation of standing, balance control, and improved stair-walking and ramp-walking. 137.-. (canceled)38. A prosthetic foot and ankle assembly comprising a combination of:a foot component, andan ankle joint mounted to the foot component and having a fixed range of dorsi-plantar flexion during walking, wherein a lower end of the ankle joint is pivotally mounted to the foot component at a pivotal connection about which the fixed range of dorsi-plantar flexion occurs, the ankle joint comprising a joint mechanism providing resistance to ankle flexion, wherein the joint mechanism comprises a hydraulic damper providing hydraulic damping and having a pair of variable-volume chambers and a valve arrangement controlling the flow of hydraulic fluid between the chambers, the valve arrangement comprising a first, locking valve having a first orifice and arranged to operate in a locked mode and in a yielding mode,wherein in the locked mode the first orifice is closed and the locking valve prevents flexion of the ankle joint and in the yielding mode the first orifice is open and allows flexion of the ankle joint.39. A prosthetic foot and ankle assembly as claimed in claim 38 , wherein the locking valve comprises a retaining mechanism for maintaining the locking valve in one or both of the locked and ...

SOFT ACTUATORS AND SOFT ACTUATING DEVICES

A soft buckling linear actuator is described, including: a plurality of substantially parallel bucklable, elastic structural components each having its longest dimension along a first axis; and a plurality of secondary structural components each disposed between and bridging two adjacent bucklable, elastic structural components; wherein every two adjacent bucklable, elastic structural components and the secondary structural components in-between define a layer comprising a plurality of cells each capable of being connected with a fluid inflation or deflation source; the secondary structural components from two adjacent layers are not aligned along a second axis perpendicular to the first axis; and the secondary structural components are configured not to buckle, the bucklable, elastic structural components are configured to buckle along the second axis to generate a linear force, upon the inflation or deflation of the cells. Methods of actuation using the same are also described. 1. A soft buckling linear actuator comprising:a plurality of bucklable, elastic structural components each having its longest dimension along a first axis; wherein each two adjacent bucklable, elastic structural components are at an angle of about 165-180 degrees; anda plurality of secondary structural components each disposed between and bridging two adjacent bucklable, elastic structural components;whereinat least two adjacent bucklable, elastic structural components and the secondary structural components in-between define a layer comprising a plurality of cells each capable of being connected with a fluid inflation or deflation source;the secondary structural components from two adjacent layers are not aligned along a second axis which is at an angle of about 80-90 degrees to the first axis; andthe secondary structural components are configured not to buckle, the bucklable, elastic structural components are configured to buckle along the second axis to generate a linear force, upon the ...

DRIVING MODULE, MOTION ASSISTANCE APPARATUS INCLUDING THE DRIVING MODULE, AND METHOD OF CONTROLLING THE MOTION ASSISTANCE APPARATUS

Driving modules, motion assistance apparatuses including at least one of the driving modules, and methods of controlling at least one of the motion assistance apparatus may be provided. For example, a driving module including a driving source on one side of a user and configured to transmit power, an input side rotary body connected to the driving source and configured to rotate, and a first decelerator and a second decelerator configured to operate using the power received from the driving source through the input side rotary body, wherein a gear ratio from the input side rotary body to an output terminal of the first decelerator differs from a gear ratio from the input side rotary body to an output terminal of the second decelerator, may be provided. 1. A driving module comprising:a driving source configured to transmit power;an input side rotary body connected to the driving source and configured to rotate; anda first decelerator and a second decelerator configured to operate using the power received from the driving source through the input side rotary body,wherein a gear ratio from the input side rotary body to an output terminal of the first decelerator differs from a gear ratio from the input side rotary body to an output terminal of the second decelerator.2. The driving module of claim 1 , wherein at least one of the first decelerator and the second decelerator comprises:a planet gear connected to an outer circumferential surface of the input side rotary body and configured to at least one of rotate with respect to an axis of rotation thereof and revolve around the input side rotary body using the power received through the input side rotary body;a carrier connected to the axis of rotation of the planet gear and configured to rotate when the planet gear revolves around the input side rotary body;a ring gear including an inner circumferential surface, the inner circumferential surface configured to be connected to the planet gear; anda pulley configured to ...

APPARATUS, SET AND METHOD FOR CREATING A PLASTER IMPRESSION OF A LIMB STUMP OF A PATIENT FOR MANUFACTURING A PROSTHESIS SHAFT AND ADAPTOR

The present invention relates to a medical apparatus () for use in manufacturing a plaster impression of limb stump, in particular of a lower stump, wherein the apparatus () comprises a pressure vessel () with a fluid chamber of pressure chamber (DK) for receiving or storing a fluid (F) being under pressure, wherein the pressure vessel () is limited against an exterior (Ä), wherein the pressure vessel () comprises an insertion opening () for the insertion of a limb stump (KS) into the interior (I) of the pressure vessel () and a fluid-tight membrane () made of two materials, which are arranged to form or limit the fluid chamber or the pressure chamber (DK). In addition, the present invention relates to a system () having a medical apparatus () and at least one contact surface (). Furthermore, the present invention relates to a method. 1100100. A medical apparatus () for use in the preparation of a plaster impression or a data model of a limb stump , in particular of a lower leg stump; wherein the apparatus () comprises at least:{'b': 1', '1', '3', '3', '1', '1', '9', '1, 'a pressure vessel () with a fluid chamber or a pressure chamber (DK) for receiving or storing a fluid, in particular one being under pressure, wherein the pressure vessel () comprises a wall () made of a first material, wherein the wall () limits an interior (I) of the pressure vessel () against an exterior (Ä), wherein the pressure vessel () comprises an insertion opening () for inserting the limb stump (KS) into the interior (I) of the pressure vessel (); and'}{'b': 5', '5, 'a fluid-impermeable membrane () made of a second material, which membrane () is arranged to form or limit the fluid chamber or the pressure chamber (DK).'}2100. The medical apparatus () as in claim 1 , with:{'b': 19', '19', '1, 'an outlet (, ′) which is a fluid communication between the fluid chamber or the pressure chamber (DK) and the exterior (Ä) of the pressure vessel (); and'}{'b': 19', '19, 'a valve, a stop or lock ...

Energy Storing Prosthetic Knee Actuator

An energy storing prosthetic knee actuator and method of using such an energy storing prosthetic knee actuator comprising a hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder with a piston and a piston rod, wherein the piston and the hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder are movable with respect to each other, an energy storage accumulator and a control valve provided in piping connecting the hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder with the energy storage accumulator for controlling an exchange of fluid or gas between the accumulator and the cylinder, wherein the cylinder and the piston are connected to a user's upper leg and lower leg respectively or vice versa, and wherein the actuator is arranged to close the control valve when the user is sitting down and to open the control valve when the user is going to stand or is standing up. 1. An energy storing prosthetic knee actuator comprising a hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder with a piston and a piston rod , wherein the piston and the hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder are movable with respect to each other and are connected or connectable to a user's upper leg and lower leg respectively or vice versa , and further comprising an energy storage accumulator and at least one control valve provided in piping connecting the hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder with the energy storage accumulator for controlling an exchange of fluid or gas between the energy storage accumulator and the hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder , wherein the control valve is a single control valve and automatically operable and connected to at least one sensor for detecting whether the user is standing up.2. The energy storing prosthetic knee actuator according to claim 1 , wherein the cylinder is a pneumatic cylinder.3. The energy storing prosthetic knee actuator according to claim 1 , wherein the control valve is arranged to close off the piping when the sensor detects that the user is seated and to open the piping when the sensor detects that the user is standing up.4. The energy storing ...

Laminated spring containing valve, control method of this valve and prosthetic joint that includes the valve

Present invention concerns a laminated spring containing valve on a cylinder that contains two compartments which are separated by a piston, which ensures the adjustment of the fluid flow rate between the two compartments by being sensitive to the pressure difference between the two compartment. Present invention explains a valve and its control method which provides a dynamical control over the fluid flow between the two compartments and the flow rate. Besides, this invention explains a valve set and a prosthetic joint, which contains this set, that ensures the adaptive movement of the prosthetic limbs of the amputees with the natural movement phases.

ACTUATORS AND METHODS OF USE

Actuators and methods of use are provided. An actuator may include an inner member made from an elastic material and defining a compartment for receiving an actuating fluid, the inner member being moveable in a longitudinal direction from a relaxed state to an expanded state by introducing an actuating fluid into the inner member, and an outer member made from an inelastic material and being disposed around the elastic inner member to control expansion of the elastic inner member in a radial direction, the outer member being moveable from a folded relaxed configuration to an unfolded extended configuration as the inner member moves from the relaxed state to the expanded state, wherein the movement of the actuator between the relaxed state and the expanded state causes a movement of a structure to which the actuator is attached. 120.-. (canceled)21. A lattice device comprising:a first member;a second member; and 'an inner member made from an elastic material and having straight walls to define a straight, cylindrically shaped compartment for receiving an actuating fluid, the inner member having a first segment having a first elastic property and second segment having a second elastic property that is different from the first elastic property such that inner member is moveable in an axial asymmetric direction from a relaxed state to an expanded state by introducing an actuating fluid into the inner member to pressurize the first and second segments of the inner member; and', 'an axially asymmetric actuator connected to the first member at a first end of the actuator and to the second member at a second end of the actuator, the actuator comprising wherein, when the inner member is pressurized to move the inner member to its expanded state, the actuator expands in the axial direction, and', 'wherein, when the inner member is de-pressurized to return the inner member to its relaxed state, the actuator contracts in the axial direction to cause a movement of at least one ...

PROSTHESIS

A prosthesis with a lower limb attachment part, a foot part, a connection element with a joint function that connects the lower limb attachment part with the foot part, and a release device which can be brought into a locking position in which the foot part and the lower limb attachment part are connected to each other in a rotationally fixed manner at least relative to a dorsal extension movement, and into a release position in which the foot part can be rotated relative to the lower limb attachment part. The release device is designed to passively switch from the locking position into the release position when a variable which correlates to an ankle torque (M) in the connection element lies above a pre-set threshold. 1. A prosthesis , comprising:a lower limb attachment part;a foot part,a connection element with a joint function that connects the lower limb attachment part with the foot part;a release device that can be brought into a locking position, in which the foot part and the lower limb attachment part are connected to each other in a rotationally fixed manner at least relative to a dorsal extension movement, andinto a release position, in which the foot part can be rotated relative to the lower limb attachment part;wherein the release device is operable to passively switch from the locking position into the release position when a variable which correlates to an ankle torque in the connection element is above a preset threshold.2. The prosthesis according to claim 1 , wherein the release device is operable to passively switch from the locking position into the release position when the ankle torque lies above a preset torque threshold.3. The prosthesis according to claim 2 , wherein the release device is operable such that when the ankle torque lies above the torque threshold claim 2 , the foot part loves into a dorsally extended position claim 2 , and the foot part remains at least primarily in the dorsally extended position during a swing phase.4. The ...

LOWER LIMB PROSTHESIS

A prosthetic ankle has an ankle joint body (A) constituting a shin component and a foot component (). The ankle joint body (A) is pivotally connected to the foot component () by a first pivotal connection () defining a medial-lateral ankle joint flexion axis. The ankle joint body (A) also forms the cylinder of an ankle joint piston and cylinder assembly with a superior-inferior central axis, the cylinder housing a piston () with upper and lower piston rods (A, B). The lower piston rod (B) is pivotally connected to the foot component () at a second pivotal connection (). As the ankle joint body (A) pivots about the ankle joint flexion axis, the piston () moves substantially linearly in the cylinder formed by the ankle joint body. The cylinder is divided into upper and lower chambers (A, B). These chambers are linked by an hydraulic circuit () incorporating passages (A, B) in the ankle joint body (A), and an energy conversion device in the form of a slave piston and cylinder assembly () having a piston (P) and piston rods (R) which project beyond the cylinder (C) of the assembly (). 16-. (canceled)7. An ankle joint prosthesis comprising a shin member and a foot member and constructed such that the foot member is able to execute a flexion movement relative to the shin member , and a flexion control system for controlling the relative flexion movement between the shin member and the foot member , wherein the flexion control system comprises:an hydraulic circuit including an hydraulic ankle flexion control device interconnecting the shin member and foot member, and an energy conversion device for converting fluid flow energy in the hydraulic circuit resulting from ankle flexion into mechanical movement and vice versa; andan energy input arranged to receive energy into the ankle flexion control system from an external energy source;and wherein the ankle joint prosthesis further comprises at least one sensor for sensing a kinetic or kinematic parameter of locomotion and a ...

PNEUMATIC ELECTROMYOGRAPHIC EXOSKELETON

The invention relates to a pneumatic, electromyographic exoskeleton. The exoskeleton includes a rigid frame designed to be secured to at least a portion of a user's body, a number of pneumatic actuators, each fixed to opposite sides of a hinge on the rigid frame; a storage tank designed to store compressed air to power the pneumatic actuators; valves coupled to the pneumatic actuators to control activation of the pneumatic actuators; electromyographic (EMG) sensors for sensing EMG signals in skeletal muscles of the user; differential amplifiers for amplifying each EMG signal to generate an amplified EMG signal; and a microprocessor programmed to receive the amplified EMG signals and to output activation signals for the pneumatic actuators. 1. A pneumatic , electromyographic exoskeleton comprising:a rigid frame designed to be secured to least a portion of a body of a user, the rigid frame comprising a plurality of hinges corresponding to joints of the user;a plurality of pneumatic actuators, each pneumatic actuator being fixed to opposite sides of a hinge on the rigid frame;a storage tank designed to store compressed air to power the pneumatic actuators;a plurality of valves coupled to the pneumatic actuators to control activation of the pneumatic actuators;a plurality of electromyographic (EMG) sensors for sensing EMG signals in skeletal muscles of the user, each EMG sensor comprising a first contact pad and a second contact pad for sensing an EMG signal in a skeletal muscle of the user, and a differential amplifier for amplifying the EMG signal to generate an amplified EMG signal; receive the amplified EMG signal;', 'detect whether the amplified EMG signal is outside of a threshold voltage region;', 'detect whether the amplified EMG signal has been within the threshold voltage region for a defined delay period; and', 'output an activation signal for a pneumatic actuator beginning when the amplified EMG signal is outside the threshold voltage region and ending when ...

PUMP SYSTEM

A prosthetic system includes first and second parts rotatable relative to one another about a joint. The first and second parts are adapted to form at least part of a weight bearing connection between a prosthetic foot and a socket. A pump system includes a pump mechanism operatively connected to the first and second parts. Rotation of the first part and/or the second part about the joint moves the pump mechanism between an original configuration in which the volume of a fluid chamber defined by the pump mechanism is zero or near-zero, and an expanded configuration in which the volume of the fluid chamber is increased. 1. A prosthetic system comprising:first and second parts rotatable relative to one another about a joint, the first and second parts adapted to form at least part of a weight bearing connection between a prosthetic foot and a socket; anda pump system including a pump mechanism operatively connected to the first and second parts such that relative rotation between the first and second parts about the joint moves the pump mechanism between an original configuration in which the volume of a fluid chamber defined by the pump mechanism is zero or near-zero, and an expanded configuration in which the volume of the fluid chamber is increased.2. The prosthetic system of claim 1 , further comprising a movable member having a rigid configuration including a first end attached to the pump mechanism and a second end portion attached to the first part claim 1 , wherein rotation of the movable member moves the pump mechanism between the original and expanded configurations.3. The prosthetic system of claim 1 , wherein the pump mechanism includes a housing and a membrane attached to the housing such that the fluid chamber is defined between the membrane and the housing.4. The prosthetic system of claim 3 , wherein deformation of the membrane increases the volume of the fluid chamber.5. The prosthetic system of claim 3 , wherein the housing is attached to a side ...

PUMP SYSTEM

A prosthetic system includes a prosthetic foot having an upper foot element with a concave-forward facing portion and foot portion extending forwardly therefrom. An intermediate foot element is disposed below the upper foot element and has a front portion coupled to the foot portion of the upper foot element. A lower foot element is disposed below the intermediate foot element. A pump system is coupled to the prosthetic foot and comprises a pump mechanism including a housing defining a cavity, and a membrane situated in the cavity. The pump mechanism is movable between an original configuration and an expanded configuration. An arm member is connected to the pump mechanism and operatively coupled to the intermediate foot element. The arm member is arranged to move the pump mechanism toward at least the expanded configuration upon movement of the intermediate foot element relative to the upper foot element. 1. A prosthetic system comprising:a prosthetic foot including an upper foot element having a concave-forward facing portion and a foot portion extending forwardly therefrom, an intermediate foot element disposed below the upper foot element and having a front portion coupled to the foot portion of the upper foot element, and a lower foot element disposed below the intermediate foot element, wherein the upper foot element and the intermediate foot element are movable relative to one another upon movement of the prosthetic foot; and a pump mechanism including a housing defining a cavity and a membrane situated in the cavity, the pump mechanism being movable between an original configuration in which the volume of a fluid chamber defined between the membrane and a bottom of the cavity is zero or near-zero, and an expanded configuration in which the volume of the fluid chamber is increased; and', 'an arm member extending from the pump mechanism and operatively coupled to the intermediate foot element, the arm member arranged to move the pump mechanism toward at least ...

MICROPROCESSOR CONTROLLED PROSTHETIC ANKLE SYSTEM FOR FOOTWEAR AND TERRAIN ADAPTATION

A prosthetic ankle includes a pair of prosthetic members movably coupled together to allow movement of the pair of prosthetic members with respect to one another. A hydraulic actuator or damper including hydraulic fluid in a hydraulic chamber is coupled to one of the pair of prosthetic members. A hydraulic piston is movably disposed in the hydraulic chamber and coupled to another of the pair of prosthetic members. A hydraulic flow channel is fluidly coupled between opposite sides of the chamber to allow hydraulic fluid to move between the opposite sides of the chamber as the hydraulic piston moves therein. A voice coil valve is coupled to the hydraulic flow channel to vary resistance to flow of hydraulic fluid through the flow channel, and thus movement of the piston in the chamber, and thus influencing a rate of movement of the pair of prosthetic members with respect to one another. 1. A prosthetic ankle device , comprising:a) a pair of prosthetic members, comprising an shank link configured to be coupled to a remnant limb of an amputee and an artificial foot, movably coupled together to allow movement of the pair of prosthetic members with respect to one another;b) a hydraulic actuator or damper including hydraulic fluid in a hydraulic chamber coupled to one of the pair of prosthetic members, and a hydraulic piston movably disposed in the hydraulic chamber and coupled to another of the pair of prosthetic members;c) a hydraulic flow channel fluidly coupled between opposite sides of the chamber to allow hydraulic fluid to move between the opposite sides of the chamber as the hydraulic piston moves therein;d) a control valve coupled to the hydraulic flow channel to vary resistance to flow of hydraulic fluid through the flow channel, and thus movement of the piston in the chamber, and thus influencing a rate of movement of the pair of prosthetic members with respect to one another; ande) a controller coupled to the control valve and having circuitry configured to ...

VACUUM ASSISTED SUSPENSION SYSTEM

A vacuum assisted suspension system includes an elongate compression transfer element and a pump housing. The pump housing defines an enclosed space to receive a fluid. At least one wall of the housing and at least one movable wall define a fluid compartment and a non-fluid chamber. The at least one movable wall is connected to the compression transfer element. The compression transfer element causes the at least one movable wall of the fluid compartment to reciprocate in the fluid compartment to increase the volume of the fluid compartment in response to a compressive force on the compression transfer element and enables the at least one movable wall to decrease the volume of the fluid compartment in the absence of a compressive force. 1. A vacuum assisted suspension system , comprising:an elongate compression transfer element; anda pump housing defining an enclosed space to receive a fluid, at least one wall of the housing and at least one movable wall defining a fluid compartment and a non-fluid compartment, the at least one movable wall connected to the compression transfer element,wherein the compression transfer element causes the at least one movable wall of the fluid compartment to reciprocate in the fluid compartment to increase the volume of the fluid compartment in response to a compressive force on the compression transfer element and enables the at least one movable wall to decrease the volume of the fluid compartment in the absence of a compressive force.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the housing is in the shape of a polygonal prism and the movable wall has a same shape as the base of the housing and forms a seal with the sides of the housing to divide the enclosed space into the fluid compartment and the non-fluid compartment.3. The system of claim 1 , wherein the movable wall reciprocates in the housing to change the volume of the non-fluid and fluid compartments upon application and removal of a compressive force on the compression transfer ...

Lower limb prosthesis comprising a hydraulic damping and a vacuum generating mechanism

A lower limb prosthesis comprises a foot component and an ankle unit pivotally mounted to the foot component. The ankle unit comprises an ankle joint mechanism comprising a hydraulic piston and cylinder assembly for providing hydraulic damping whenever the ankle joint flexes, and a vacuum mechanism comprising a pneumatic piston and cylinder assembly for generating a vacuum. The hydraulic and pneumatic piston and cylinder assemblies are arranged such that the vacuum mechanism generates a vacuum during plantar-flexion of the ankle unit.

PROSTHETIC FEET HAVING HEEL HEIGHT ADJUSTABILITY

Prosthetic feet that allow for heel height adjustment and/or provide metatarsal joint functionality to more closely mimic natural human feet are provided. A prosthetic foot can include an ankle module having a locking mechanism configured to lock the heel at a particular height. The prosthetic foot can also include a toe region that adapts to varying heel heights. The ankle module and/or locking mechanism can be adjusted, controlled, and/or locked via a hydraulic mechanism. The toe region can curve upward relative to a portion of the foot proximal of the toe region. 1. A prosthetic foot comprising:an ankle module configured to be coupled to a lower limb member;an elongate foot member extending from a proximal end to a distal end, the proximal end coupled to the ankle module;an elongate lower foot member extending from a proximal end to a distal end, wherein the lower foot member is positioned below and coupled to the foot member and the lower foot member extends distally beyond the distal end of the foot member to form a toe region, anda toe piece coupled to a top surface of the toe region, the toe piece tapering toward a front end of the toe piece, a distal end of the toe piece terminating at the distal end of the lower foot member, the toe piece comprising a different material than the elongate lower foot member,wherein the ankle module is selectively actuatable to adjust an angle between the prosthetic foot and the lower limb member to allow for adjustment of a heel height of the prosthetic foot, andwherein the toe region curves upward and is configured to adapt to various heel heights of the prosthetic foot.2. The prosthetic foot of claim 1 , wherein the ankle module comprises a hydraulic adjustment mechanism.3. The prosthetic foot of claim 1 , wherein the toe region comprises glass fiber.4. The prosthetic foot of claim 1 , wherein the lower foot member comprises one or more layers of glass fiber extending from the proximal end to the distal end and one or more ...

PROSTHETIC HYDRAULIC JOINT WITH ACCUMULATOR AND METHODS FOR CONTROLLING JOINT

A prosthetic foot assembly is disclosed. The assembly includes a pivoting ankle joint with a hydraulic system, a prosthetic foot connected to the distal side of the ankle joint, and, at the proximal side, the ankle joint includes a transducer with pyramid adaptor for attaching to a pylon. The ankle joint sensor provides data collection during the stance and optionally, the swing, phases of walking using, for example, strain gages and accelerometers. Also disclosed are methods for real-time feature extraction. Key parameters are captured to which are applied linear, fuzzy logic, neural net, or generic algorithms to determine current state (walking flat, uphill, downhill etc.) in real time and execute changes to the angle between the ankle and foot almost instantaneously based on those parameters. 129-. (canceled)30. A prosthetic ankle joint , comprising:a base;a body connected to the base with a pivot;a first piston and a second piston in contact with the base;a first cam and a second cam positioned on the base, the first cam supporting the first piston, and the second cam supporting the second piston, the first and second cams each having a parabolic upper surface;the body having a first cylinder and a second cylinder within which the first and second pistons are placed, respectively, the first cylinder and first piston being positioned anterior of the pivot, and the second cylinder and second piston being positioned posterior of the pivot;a hydraulic system connecting the first and second cylinders, the hydraulic system including one or more values to control transfer of fluid between the first and second cylinders;a processor programmed with instructions to control the one or more valves.31. The prosthetic ankle joint of claim 30 , further comprising a first hydraulic fluid accumulator in the first piston and a second hydraulic fluid accumulator in the second piston claim 30 , wherein the first and second accumulators each comprise a subpiston and a spring biasing ...

MAGNETIC PROSTHETIC IMPLANTS AND METHODS THEREOF

Prosthetic implant devices and related methods are provided. The prosthetic implant devices include an internal component and an external component. The internal component has an implant portion associated with one or more rare earth magnets. The internal component being of a size and shape suitable for surgical implantation into the residual limb of the amputee. The one or more rare earth magnets generate at least one magnetic field. The external component having a prosthetic piston associated with a plurality of magnetic elements and a prosthetic cup associated with a magnetic array. The magnet elements of the prosthetic piston being in adaptable magnetic association with the at least one magnetic field generated by the one or more rare earth magnets. 1. A prosthetic implant device comprising: an implant portion configured for implantation into a bone of a residual limb of an amputee; and', 'one or more first magnets associated with the implant portion;, 'an internal component comprising a prosthetic cup housing a magnet array, the prosthetic cup configured to attach to the residual limb; and', 'a prosthetic piston configured to attach to the prosthetic cup comprising one or more second magnets, the one or more second magnets being in adaptable magnetic association with the one or more first magnets., 'an external component comprising2. The prosthetic implant device of ;wherein the one or more second magnets generate at least one magnetic field; andwherein the magnetic array is configured to reduce lateral or side forces experienced by the one or more first magnets due to the at least one magnetic field generated by the one or more second magnets.3. The prosthetic implant device of ; a bearing cylinder configured to attach to the prosthetic cup; and', 'a linear motion shaft located within the bearing cylinder;, 'wherein the prosthetic piston further compriseswherein the linear motion shaft includes an oval-shaped track and houses the one or more second magnets; ...

PUMP SYSTEM

A prosthetic system includes first and second parts rotatable relative to one another about a joint. The first and second parts are adapted to form at least part of a weight bearing connection between a prosthetic foot and a socket. A pump system includes a pump mechanism operatively connected to the first and second parts. Rotation of the first part and/or the second part about the joint moves the pump mechanism between an original configuration in which the volume of a fluid chamber defined by the pump mechanism is zero or near-zero, and an expanded configuration in which the volume of the fluid chamber is increased. 1. A prosthetic system comprising:first and second parts rotatable relative to one another about a joint, the first and second parts adapted to form at least part of a weight bearing connection between a prosthetic foot and a socket; anda pump system including:a pump mechanism operatively connected to the first and second parts such that relative rotation between the first and second parts about the joint moves the pump mechanism between a predetermined configuration in which a volume of a fluid chamber defined by the pump mechanism is zero or near-zero, and an expanded configuration in which the volume of the fluid chamber is increased, the pump mechanism including a housing, a membrane, and at least one valve assembly arranged to control movement of fluid into and/or from the pump mechanism;a movable member including a first end portion connected to the membrane and a second end portion connected to the first part.2. The prosthetic system of claim 1 , wherein the membrane is connected at or near its center point to the movable member and an outer radial edge portion of the membrane is connected to the housing.3. The prosthetic system of claim 1 , wherein the membrane is connected to the movable member by a connector.4. The prosthetic system of claim 3 , wherein the connector defines a through channel in fluid communication with the fluid chamber and ...

SPRING MECHANISM AND HYDRAULIC ACTUATOR

A spring mechanism having at least two wave washers and at least one spring washer between the wave washers. The wave washers are mounted so as to be twistable relative to one another. 1. A spring device:at least two wave washers;at least one spring washer disposed between the wave washers;wherein the wave washers are mounted so as to be capable of being rotated relative to one another.2. The spring device as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the at least one spring washer includes a plurality of spring washers as a spring washer stack that is disposed between the wave washers.3. The spring device as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the at least two wave washers are disposed on an end of that side that faces away from the at least one spring washer so as to be flat.4. The spring device as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the at least two wave washers are configured so as to be undulated on both sides that face the at least one spring washer and is disposed between two spring washers.5. The spring device as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the at least two wave washers and the at least one spring washer have in each case a central clearance and are mounted on a central guide.6. The spring device as claimed in claim 1 , wherein at least one of the wave washers is coupled to an adjustment device by way of a form-fit element.7. The spring device as claimed in claim 6 , wherein the form-fit element is configured as a clearance claim 6 , a protrusion claim 6 , a pin claim 6 , a shoulder claim 6 , an eccentric claim 6 , or a toothing.8. The spring device as claimed in claim 6 , wherein the adjustment device at least partially surrounds the at least one of the wave washers or is disposed within the at least one of the wave washers.9. The spring device as claimed in claim 6 , wherein the adjustment device is driven in a motorized manner.10. The spring device as claimed in claim 9 , wherein the adjustment device has a toothing which is coupled to a driven gear wheel or a driven worm.11. The ...

POLYCENTRIC KNEE JOINT HAVING AN ADJUSTMENT-FREE MULTI-STAGE AIR CYLINDER

A polycentric knee joint including an adjustment-free multi-stage prosthesis air cylinder. The air cylinder has an air cylinder body, a piston assembly slidably mounted on the air cylinder body, a first check valve mounted in the piston, and a multi-stage air pressure valve mounted inside a lower air way of the air cylinder body. The multi-stage air pressure valve automatically cushions movements of the piston assembly without being adjusted whenever a user of the prosthesis joint walks slowly or quickly, for improved comfort. 1. A polycentric knee joint comprising:first and second anterior links pivotally connected to a chassis and a housing, and a posterior link pivotally connected to the chassis and the housing, an air cylinder arranged for adjustment-free multi-stage movement and pivotally connecting to the first and second anterior links and the housing, the air cylinder comprising: a top portion;', 'a bottom portion, the bottom portion connecting to the first and second anterior links;', 'an air chamber defined inside the air cylinder body; and', 'a lower air way formed in the bottom portion of the air cylinder body and having two ends respectively connected to the air chamber and an outside of the air cylinder body;, 'an air cylinder body having'}a piston assembly slidably mounted on the air cylinder body;wherein the first and second anterior links each have a proximal end connecting to an anterior side of the housing at a first pivot point and a distal end connecting at the anterior side of a distal end of the chassis at a second pivot point, the posterior link connects to a third pivot point at a posterior side of the housing and connects to the chassis at a fourth pivot point.wherein the chassis defines a cavity in which extends at least part of the air cylinder and an adapter below the cavity, the air cylinder having a shaft extending through the adapter and the piston rod extends within the posterior link, the piston rod having a proximal link pivotally ...

Torque Generating Pouch And Related Methods

Systems and methods for providing torque to an assistive device are disclosed. In an embodiment, an apparatus comprises a material arranged to define a volume of space. The material may comprise a flexible portion and having a first surface and a second surface. The material may have a first position, in which the material is bent along the flexible portion and the first surface contacts the second surface. When the material is in the first position, an increase in pressure to the space creates a force between the first surface and the second surface. The material transitions from the first position to a second position in response to the force between the first surface and the second surface. The apparatus may be attached to an assistive device or other machine, such as an orthosis or prosthesis, in order to provide a torque. 1. An apparatus , comprising:a. a material arranged to define a volume of space, the material comprising a flexible portion and having a first surface and a second surface;b. the material having a first position, in which the material is bent along the flexible portion and the first surface contacts the second surface;c. wherein, when the material is in the first position, an increase in pressure to the space creates a force between the first surface and the second surface; andd. wherein the material transitions from the first position to a second position in response to the force between the first surface and the second surface.2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the apparatus is coupled to a machine and the transition from the first position to the second position provides a torque to the machine.3. The apparatus of claim 2 , wherein the machine is an assistive device.4. The apparatus of claim 3 , wherein the assistive device is an orthosis.5. The apparatus of claim 3 , wherein the assistive device is a joint of a prosthesis.6. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the space is configured to increase in pressure through receipt of a fluid.7. ...

Palm Unit for Artificial Hand

A palm unit for an artificial hand comprises: a palm unit body (); a motor () held by the palm unit body (); a hydraulic pump assembly () held by the palm unit body () and comprising a low-pressure hydraulic pump () and a high-pressure hydraulic pump (), wherein both hydraulic pumps () are powered simultaneously by the motor (); and a hydraulic circuit held by the palm unit body () and coupled to both hydraulic pumps (), wherein the hydraulic circuit has a low-pressure configuration in which the discharge sides of both hydraulic pumps () a re coupled to one or more hydraulic actuator(s) () for the artificial hand and a high-pressure configuration in which the discharge side of the low-pressure pump () is isolated from the hydraulic actuator(s) () and recirculates fluid to the suction side of the low pressure pump () with the discharge side of the high-pressure pump () remaining coupled to the hydraulic actuator(s) (), and wherein the hydraulic circuit is arranged to switch from the low-pressure configuration to the high-pressure configuration automatically during a closing grip pattern when the pressure in the system increases beyond a threshold value. 1. A palm unit for an artificial hand , the palm unit comprising:a palm unit body;a motor held by the palm unit body;a hydraulic pump assembly held by the palm unit body and comprising a low-pressure hydraulic pump and a high-pressure hydraulic pump, wherein both hydraulic pumps are powered simultaneously by the motor; anda hydraulic circuit held by the palm unit body and coupled to both hydraulic pumps,wherein the hydraulic circuit has a low-pressure configuration in which the discharge sides of both hydraulic pumps are coupled to one or more hydraulic actuator(s) for the artificial hand and a high-pressure configuration in which the discharge side of the low-pressure pump is isolated from the hydraulic actuator(s) and recirculates fluid to the suction side of the low pressure pump with the discharge side of the high ...

Hydraulic Pump Assembly for Artificial Hand

A hydraulic pump assembly () comprises: a low-pressure hydraulic pump (), a high-pressure hydraulic pump (), and a drive shaft assembly () that passes along an axis of the pump assembly (); wherein both hydraulic pumps () are arranged to be rotated simultaneously by the drive shaft assembly (); and wherein the pump assembly () is formed a single unit arranged to fit into a pump chamber (). 1. A hydraulic pump assembly comprising: a low-pressure hydraulic pump , a high-pressure hydraulic pump , and a drive shaft assembly that passes along an axis of the pump assembly; wherein both hydraulic pumps are arranged to be rotated simultaneously by the drive shaft assembly; and wherein the pump assembly is formed as a single unit arranged to fit into a pump chamber.2. A hydraulic pump assembly as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the hydraulic pump assembly is for powering a hydraulic circuit in an artificial hand and the single unit may be arranged to fit into a pump chamber within a palm unit of the artificial hand.3. A hydraulic pump assembly as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the low-pressure hydraulic pump is capable of operating at pressures from 0 bar up to 10-15 bar and the high-pressure hydraulic pump is capable of operating at pressures from 0-50 bar.4. A hydraulic pump assembly as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the hydraulic pump assembly includes a seal or a groove for holding a seal at one end of the hydraulic pump assembly.5. A hydraulic pump assembly as claimed in claim 1 , having a prismatic shape for fitting into a pump chamber of a corresponding prismatic shape.6. A hydraulic pump assembly as claimed in claim 1 , wherein having a cylindrical shape for fitting into a pump chamber of a corresponding cylindrical shape.7. A hydraulic pump assembly as claimed in claim 1 , comprising a hydraulic axle seal between the two hydraulic pumps for the drive shaft assembly claim 1 , and no seals between pump plates of the hydraulic pumps.8. A hydraulic pump assembly as claimed in ...

Neural Efferent and Afferent Control of Spring Equilibrium, Damping, and Power in Backdrivable and Non-Backdrivable Series-Elastic Actuators Comprising Variable Series Stiffness Mechanisms

A prosthetic device includes a frame defining an output axis, a cantilever beam spring attached to the frame, a moment arm attached to the spring, and a rigid output arm coupled to the frame and rotatable about the output axis. A connector assembly is configured to apply a moment to the cantilever beam spring via the moment arm while applying a torque about the output axis via the output arm. An ankle-foot device includes foot and ankle members connected for two-degree of freedom movement relative to one another, allowing for rotation about an ankle axis and rotation about a subtalar axis. Two linear actuators, each coupled to corresponding series elastic element, link the foot and ankle members. Driving the actuators in the same direction causes rotation about the ankle axis and driving the actuators in opposing directions causes rotation about the subtalar axis. A processor receives sensory information from a sensor and drives the actuators to control an equilibrium position of the series elastic elements. A rotary actuator for a prosthetic device includes a housing frame, a motor mounted within the housing frame, and a cycloidal drive coupled to the motor within the housing frame. A torsion shaft can extend through the actuator to an output and provide a series elastic element. 1. A prosthetic device , comprising:a frame defining an output axis;a cantilever beam spring having a first end attached to the frame and a second end;a moment arm attached to the second end of the spring;a rigid output arm coupled to the frame and rotatable about the output axis; anda connector assembly connecting the moment arm to the output arm, the connector assembly coupled to the moment arm by a moment pivot and coupled to the output arm by an output pivot located at a distance from the output axis, the connector assembly configured to apply a moment to the cantilever beam spring via the moment arm while applying a torque about the output axis via the output arm.2. The device of ...

Intelligent Power Routing Device

A power routing device includes processing circuitry configured to receive inputs from device monitors configured to determine load status information from a plurality of loads, power-source monitors configured to determine source status information from a plurality of power sources, and command modules configured to provide context information regarding the loads or the power sources. Some of the loads have different operational characteristics than others. Some of the power sources have different operational characteristics than others. The power routing device is operably coupled to power-source distribution hardware selectively operably coupling selected ones of the power sources to selected ones of the loads. The power routing device is configured to direct the power-source distribution hardware to define routing between the selected ones of the power sources and the selected ones of the loads based on the source status information, the load status information and the context information. 1. A power routing system comprising:a plurality of loads, at least some of the loads having different operational characteristics than other ones of the loads;a plurality of power sources, at least some of the power sources having different operational characteristics than other ones of the power sources;power-source distribution hardware selectively operably coupling selected ones of the power sources to selected ones of the loads;device monitors configured to determine load status information from the loads;power-source monitors configured to determine source status information from the power sources;command modules configured to provide context information regarding at least one of the loads or the power sources; anda power routing device operably coupled to the command modules, the power-source monitors and the device monitors, the power routing device being configured to receive the source status information, the load status information and the context information and to ...

A prosthetic ankle and foot combination

A prosthetic ankle and foot combination has an ankle joint mechanism constructed to allow damped rotational movement of a foot component relative to a shin component. The mechanism provides a continuous hydraulically damped range of ankle motion during walking with dynamically variable damping resistances, and with independent variation of damping resistances in the plantar-flexion and dorsi-flexion directions. An electronic control system coupled to the ankle joint mechanism includes at least one sensor for generating signals indicative of a kinetic or kinematic parameter of locomotion, the mechanism and the control system being arranged such that the damping resistances effective over the range of motion of the ankle are adapted automatically in response to such signals. Single and dual piston hydraulic damping arrangements are disclosed, including arrangements allowing independent heel-height adjustment.

ACTUATOR AND ARTIFICIAL LEG

To propose a novel and improved actuator and artificial leg capable of miniaturizing an apparatus. 1. An actuator comprising:a leaf spring whose one end is cantilevered, the leaf spring being capable of deflection deformation in a plate thickness direction in accordance with torque by transmitting the torque; anda support member configured to support a part of the leaf spring on a deflection direction side in a case where the torque transmitted by the leaf spring is greater than a predetermined value.2. The actuator according to claim 1 , further comprising:a pivotal object configured to be relatively pivotable with respect to the one end of the leaf spring, whereinthe leaf spring transmits torque output from a drive motor to the pivotal object,the one end of the leaf spring is pivotable in synchronization with an output shaft of the drive motor, andan opposite end of the leaf spring is pivotable in unison with the pivotal object.3. The actuator according to claim 2 , whereinthe support member is pivotable in unison with the one end of the leaf spring.4. The actuator according to claim 2 , whereinthe pivotal object is pivotable on a pivotal axis of the one end of the leaf spring.5. The actuator according to claim 2 , whereina plurality of the leaf springs are provided along a pivotal direction of the one end with an interval in between.6. The actuator according to claim 5 , whereinthe eight leaf springs are equidistantly provided along the pivotal direction of the one end.7. The actuator according to claim 5 , whereina plurality of the support members are provided along the pivotal direction of the one end of the leaf spring with an interval in between, and positioned between the two adjacent leaf springs in the pivotal direction of the one end.8. The actuator according to claim 1 , whereinthe support member includes a resin.9. The actuator according to claim 2 , whereinthe pivotal object includes a resin.10. An artificial leg comprising:a thigh side member,a lower ...

LOWER-LEG EXOSKELETON SYSTEM AND METHOD

A lower-leg exoskeleton that includes an inflatable actuator configured to be worn over a front portion of a leg of a user and configured to be disposed directly adjacent to and surrounding a joint of the leg of the user. The inflatable actuator is configured, when worn by the user, to receive and transmit an actuator load generated by the inflatable actuator around the joint of the user to a load contact point. Inflation of the inflatable actuator generates a moment about the joint of the user to cause flexion of the leg of the user. 1. A lower-leg exoskeleton comprising:an inflatable actuator that is configured to be worn over a front portion of a foot of a user and configured to be disposed directly adjacent to and surrounding an ankle of the foot of the user; and a pair of sidewalls configured to extend around the foot of the user and including first and second sidewall attachment points to a base portion, and', 'a base portion configured to reside at a base of the foot of the user that includes first and second base attachment points coupling with the first and second sidewall attachment points; and, 'a rigid foot structure coupled to a first actuator end of the inflatable actuator, configured to surround a portion of the foot of the user, wherein the rigid foot structure compriseswherein, the inflatable actuator and rigid foot structure are configured to, when worn by the user, receive and transmit an actuator load generated by the inflatable actuator around the foot of the user to a load contact point at a bottom of the foot of the user defined by the rigid foot structure and forward of a heel of the user; andwherein inflation of the inflatable actuator generates a moment about the ankle of the user to cause flexion of the foot of the user.2. The lower-leg exoskeleton of claim 1 , wherein the inflatable actuator is generally C-shaped and configured to be disposed directly adjacent to and surround the ankle of the foot of the user including a front of the ...

VACUUM ASSISTED SUSPENSION SYSTEM

A vacuum assisted suspension system includes a prosthetic foot and a pump mechanism connected to the foot and fluidly couplable to a prosthetic socket. The pump mechanism includes an elongate pivoting member rotatable relative to the prosthetic foot about a joint and including a distal recess. A piston is connected to the foot and is movably received in the recess. A fluid chamber is defined between the piston and the interior of the recess. When no weight is placed on the foot a volume of the fluid chamber is zero or near-zero and when weight of a user is placed on the prosthetic foot the pivoting member rotates away from the piston and expands the volume of the fluid chamber to draw fluid into the fluid chamber from the prosthetic socket. 1. A vacuum assisted suspension system for a prosthetic system including a prosthetic socket , comprising:a prosthetic foot; and a pivoting member having an elongate configuration rotatable relative to the prosthetic foot about a joint and including a distal end portion defining a recess;', 'a piston connected to the prosthetic foot and movably received in the recess; and', 'a fluid chamber defined between an end of the piston and an interior of the recess, wherein when no weight is placed on the prosthetic foot a volume of the fluid chamber is zero or near-zero and when weight of a user is placed on the prosthetic foot the pivoting member rotates away from the piston and expands the volume of the fluid chamber to draw fluid into the fluid chamber from the prosthetic socket., 'a pump mechanism connected to the prosthetic foot and fluidly couplable to a prosthetic socket, the pump mechanism including2. The system of claim 1 , wherein pivoting member and the prosthetic foot are biased to rotate toward one another.3. The system of claim 1 , wherein the joint is arranged to provide a resistance to rotation of the pivoting member about the joint.4. The system of claim 3 , wherein the resistance is adjustable to vary an amount of ...

ORTHOTIC OR PROSTHETIC JOINT DEVICE, AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING SAME

The invention relates to an orthotic or prosthetic joint device with an upper part () and a lower part () arranged in a hinged manner on the latter, and fastening means () for securing the joint device () on a user, with at least one hydraulics unit () between the upper part () and the lower part (), which hydraulics unit () has a piston () that is movable in a housing () with an extension chamber () and a flexion chamber () and that is coupled to the upper part () or the lower part (), and which hydraulics unit () is assigned a pressure supply device () with a pump () and a pressure accumulator () via which the piston (), controlled by a control device (), is subjected to a pressure, wherein the pump () can be operated in generator mode, the pressure accumulator () can be coupled drivingly to the pump (), and the hydraulic fluid can be conveyed by the pressure accumulator () through the pump () to the hydraulics unit (). 1. An orthotic or prosthetic joint device , comprising:an upper part;a lower part, arranged in an articulated manner on the upper part;fastening devices configured to secure the joint device on a user;at least one hydraulic unit arranged between the upper part and the lower part, the at least one_hydraulic unit having a piston and a housing, the piston being movable in the housing, the housing having an extension chamber and a flexion chamber, the at least one hydraulic unit being coupled to the upper part or the lower part;a pressure providing device comprising a pump and a pressure accumulator, and being configured to apply a pressure to the piston, the pressure accumulator being coupled to the pump in a driving way;a control device being configured to control operation of the pressure providing device.2. The joint device as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the pump is operable in a generator mode.3. The joint device as claimed in claim 1 , wherein hydraulic fluid is fed from the pressure accumulator through the pump to the at least one hydraulic ...

KNEE JOINT COMPONENT, KNEE JOINT AND ARTIFICIAL LEG

It is an object of the present invention to provide a technique capable of making a knee joint of an artificial leg close to a movement of a knee of a human body with a simple configuration. The knee joint component , which is one application example of the present invention, includes a first oil passage connecting a first oil chamber and a second oil chamber in a cylinder tube coupled to a socket mounted on a thigh part , a second oil passage branched from the first oil passage so as to be in parallel with the first oil passage , and a switching mechanism that switches whether a oil passes through the first oil passage or the second oil passage , which are different from the first oil passage in the passage characteristics, and the switching mechanism that is rotatably mounted around the first rotating shaft and that is rotatable by its own weight when the artificial leg is tilted, and a first rotating member that switches whether the oil passes through the first oil passage or the second oil passage by opening or closing the inlet/outlet of the second oil passage 15-. (canceled)6. A knee joint component to be mounted on a hydraulic cylinder including , a cylinder tube coupled to a socket to be mounted on a thigh part , an oil chamber formed in said cylinder tube , and an oil filled in said oil chamber ,and a rod coupled to an artificial lower leg part, and a piston that divides said oil chamber into a first oil chamber and a second oil chamber and that moves with the movement of said rod,the knee joint component comprising;a first passage connecting said first oil chamber and said second oil chamber, and having a first passage characteristic as said oil passes through when said piston is moving from said first oil chamber toward said second oil chamber;a second passage arranged so as to be parallel to said first passage, and having a second passage characteristic in which a hydraulic resistance of said oil is higher than that of said first characteristic when said ...

DYNAMIC SUPPORT APPARATUS AND SYSTEM

A dynamic support system includes a control system for controlling inflation and deflation of at least one actuator having an inlet connectable to the a control unit of the dynamic support system. The control unit may be in communication with a sensor and may control inflation and deflation of the at least one actuator in response to information provided by the sensor. 1. A control unit for a dynamic support apparatus having at least one actuator , the control unit comprising:a pump connected to the at least one actuator for causing actuation thereof;a sensor detecting a pressure of the at least one actuator; anda control system for controlling the pump, the control system in communication with the sensor and receiving a signal indicative of the pressure of the at least one actuator therefrom;wherein the control system controls the pump to actuate the at least one actuator at least in response to the pressure detected by the sensor.2. The control unit according to claim 1 , additionally comprising a detachable manifold fluidly coupling the at least one actuator to the pump through an interior channel.3. The control unit according to claim 2 , wherein the detachable manifold fluidly couples a plurality of actuators to the pump through a plurality of interior channels.4. The control unit according to claim 3 , additionally comprising a valve in fluid communication with each interior channel for controlling flow therethrough.5. The control unit according to claim 4 , wherein control system controls activation of the valves.6. The control unit according to claim 1 , wherein the control system commands the pump to increase the pressure of the at least one actuator if the pressure detected by the sensor drops below a current pressure setpoint by more than a prescribed deadband.7. The control unit according to claim 6 , wherein the control system commands venting of the at least one actuator if the pressure detected by the sensor exceeds the current pressure setpoint by ...

ORTHOPEDIC JOINT

An orthopedic joint for a prosthesis, includes an upper part, a lower part which is mounted on the upper part in a pivotal manner about a pivot axis, and a rotation hydraulic unit, which has a housing with a chamber and a pivot piston that is pivotally mounted in the chamber and divides the chamber into a flexion chamber and an extension chamber, the chambers being hydraulically connected together via at least one channel. The joint also includes a pretensioning device which supports a pivoting movement of the upper part relative to the lower part, wherein the pretensioning device is coupled directly to the pivot piston via a support. 1. An orthopedic joint , comprising:an upper part;a lower part mounted on the upper part so as to pivot about a pivot axis; a housing with a chamber;', 'a pivot piston which is mounted pivotably in the chamber and divides the chamber into a flexion chamber and an extension chamber, the flexion and extension chambers being connected hydraulically to each other via at least one channel;, 'a rotation hydraulics unit comprisinga pretensioning device which assists a pivoting movement of the upper part relative to the lower part, the pretensioning device being coupled directly to the pivot piston via a support.2. The joint as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the support is mounted pivotably in or at the pivot piston.3. The joint as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the support is stable against buckling.4. The joint as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the support transmits at least one of tensile force and compressive force from the pretensioning device to the pivot piston.5. The joint as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the support is guided in a hydraulic fluid.6. The joint as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the pretensioning device has a spring claim 1 , on or at which the support is mounted.7. The joint as claimed in claim 6 , wherein the support is mounted on or at a slide piece claim 6 , which is arranged between the spring and the support.8. The joint as ...

Arm Prosthetic Device

A system for powering a prosthetic arm is disclosed. The system includes at least one internal battery located in the prosthetic arm, at least one external battery connected to the prosthetic arm, and a master controller configured to connect either the at least one internal battery or the at least one external battery to a power bus to power the prosthetic arm. 1. A brake apparatus for a prosthesis , the brake apparatus comprising:a first caliper configured to operatively engage with a peripheral edge of a first brake rotor;a second caliper configured to operatively engage with a peripheral edge of a second brake rotor, the second brake rotor configured to rotate concentrically to the first brake rotor;wherein the first and second calipers are engaged with the peripheral edges of the first and second brake rotors such that the first and second brake rotors are prevented from rotating when the first and second calipers are in a locked position; andan actuation mechanism configured to move the first and second calipers from the locked position to an unlocked position;wherein the first and second brake rotors can freely rotate when the first and second calipers are in the unlocked position.2. The brake apparatus of claim 1 , further comprising a bias member operatively engaged with both the first and second calipers such that the first and second calipers are biased towards the locked position.3. The brake apparatus of claim 2 , wherein the actuation mechanism comprises a cam rod including a cam surface claim 2 , the cam surface operatively engaged with both the first and second calipers claim 2 , such that when the cam rod is actuated claim 2 , the cam surface urges the first and second calipers to move against the bias member to the unlocked position.4. The brake apparatus of claim 3 , wherein the actuation mechanism further comprises a motor configured to actuate the cam rod.5. The brake apparatus of claim 4 , wherein the actuation mechanism further comprises a ...

HYDRAULIC ANKLE JOINT

The hydraulic ankle joint includes a main member having a fluid supply chamber storing a hydraulic fluid, a first pressure regulating chamber, a second pressure regulating chamber, and a space connecting the chambers. The space houses an axle element rotatably joined to the main member. The main member is rotatably mounted on a U-shaped hinge seat. An extension piece is extended radially from the circumference of the axle element. A fluid block penetrates through the main member and into the space. The extension piece and the fluid block jointly partition the space into a front chamber and a back chamber. The first and second pressure regulating chambers adjust the back and front chambers' pressure so that impact from walking may be effectively buffered. The fluid supply chamber automatically refills hydraulic fluid into the front and back chambers so as to reduce user maintenance overhead. 1. A hydraulic ankle joint , comprisinga U-shaped hinge seat;a main member having a fluid supply chamber storing a hydraulic fluid, a first pressure regulating chamber, a second pressure regulating chamber, and a space connecting the chambers, all housed inside the main member; andan axle element running laterally through the space whose two ends are rotatably joined to the main member through two positioning elements, respectively; whereinthe main member together with the axle element is rotatably mounted between the U-shaped hinge seat's two upwardly extending arms by fastening a locking bolt into each end of the axle element through one of the arms;an extension piece is configured axially in a middle section of the axle element and extended radially from the circumference of the axle element; the main member has a bottom opening so as to allow a fluid block to penetrate through and into the space; the extension piece and the fluid block jointly partition the space into a front chamber and a back chamber;the first pressure regulating chamber adjusts the back chamber's pressure; ...

METHOD FOR CONTROLLING AN ORTHOPEDIC JOINT

A method for controlling an orthopedic joint of a lower extremity in at least one degree of freedom by means of an adjustable actuator for adjusting an orthopedic apparatus to walking situations that differ from walking on a plane. The orthopedic apparatus comprises top connecting members to connect to a limb, and an orthopedic element that is hingedly arranged distal to the connecting members. The method includes sensing, with sensors, several parameters of the orthopedic apparatus; comparing the sensed parameters with criteria that have been established based on several parameters and/or parameter curves and are stored in a computer unit; selecting a criterion that is suitable on the basis of the determined parameters and/or parameter curves; and adjusting resistances to movements, extents of movements, driving forces, and/or the progresses thereof in accordance with the selected criterion in order to control special functions that differ from walking on a plane. 126-. (canceled)27. A method for controlling a passive prosthetic knee joint , the method comprising:providing a prosthesis having the passive prosthetic knee joint, an upper attachment member configured to attach to a limb, a lower attachment member pivotally attached to the upper attachment member, an actuator, a computer unit, and a plurality of sensors;detecting parameters of the prosthesis with the plurality of sensors, the parameters including at least an absolute angle of the lower attachment member relative to a vertical axis, a rate of change of the absolute angle, a torque force in the knee joint, and a rate of change of the torque force;comparing the detected parameters with criteria stored in the computer unit;selecting multiple criterion based on the comparing;automatically adjusting, with the actuator, at least one of a damping force or a damping profile for the knee joint in accordance with the selected criterion, to adapt to special functions that deviate from walking on a planar surface. ...

PROSTHETIC DEVICE, SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR INCREASING VACUUM ATTACHMENT

A prosthetic foot including a foot member and a heel member attached to a bottom surface of the foot member. A pump mechanism is located above the foot member and includes a housing and an elastomeric member at least in part defining a fluid chamber. The elastomeric member is operatively connected to the foot member such that when no weight is placed on the prosthetic foot the volume of the fluid chamber is zero or near-zero and upon heel strike the housing rotates relative to the foot member to expand the volume of the fluid chamber and draw fluid into the fluid chamber from a prosthetic socket in fluid communication with the pump mechanism. 1. A prosthetic device comprising:a prosthetic foot including a foot member and a heel member attached to a bottom surface of the foot member;a pump mechanism located above the foot member, the pump mechanism including a housing and an elastomeric member at least in part defining a fluid chamber, the elastomeric member operatively coupled to the foot member such that when no weight is placed on the prosthetic foot the volume of the fluid chamber is zero or near-zero and upon heel strike the housing rotates relative to the foot member to expand the volume of the fluid chamber and draw fluid into the fluid chamber from a prosthetic socket in fluid communication with the pump mechanism.2. The prosthetic device of claim 1 , wherein when the prosthetic foot is dorsiflexed the volume of the fluid chamber is zero or near-zero.3. The prosthetic device of claim 1 , wherein when the prosthetic foot is plantar-flexed the volume of the fluid chamber is expanded.4. The prosthetic device of claim 1 , wherein the volume of the fluid chamber decreases when the foot member moves away from the heel member.5. The prosthetic device of claim 1 , wherein the volume of the fluid chamber expands when the foot member moves toward the heel member.6. The prosthetic device of claim 1 , wherein at least an outer radial edge of the elastomeric member ...

DYNAMIC SUPPORT APPARATUS AND SYSTEM

A dynamic support system includes a control system for controlling inflation and deflation of at least one actuator having an inlet connectable to the a control unit of the dynamic support system. The control unit may be in communication with a sensor and may control inflation and deflation of the at least one actuator in response to information provided by the sensor. 1. A control unit for a dynamic support apparatus having at least one actuator , the control unit comprising:a pump connected to the at least one actuator for causing actuation thereof;a sensor detecting a pressure of the at least one actuator; anda control system for controlling the pump, the control system in communication with the sensor and receiving a signal indicative of the pressure of the at least one actuator therefrom;wherein the control system controls the pump to actuate the at least one actuator at least in response to the pressure detected by the sensor.2. The control unit according to claim 1 , additionally comprising a detachable manifold fluidly coupling the at least one actuator to the pump through an interior channel.3. The control unit according to claim 2 , wherein the detachable manifold fluidly couples a plurality of actuators to the pump through a plurality of interior channels.4. The control unit according to claim 3 , additionally comprising a valve in fluid communication with each interior channel for controlling flow therethrough.5. The control unit according to claim 4 , wherein control system controls activation of the valves.6. The control unit according to claim 1 , wherein the control system commands the pump to increase the pressure of the at least one actuator if the pressure detected by the sensor drops below a current pressure setpoint by more than a prescribed deadband.7. The control unit according to claim 6 , wherein the control system commands venting of the at least one actuator if the pressure detected by the sensor exceeds the current pressure setpoint by ...

Vacuum Pump Systems for Prosthetic Limbs and Methods of Using the Same

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. 1. A mechanically activated pump for use in suspension of a prosthetic device from a residual limb comprising:a first compression member coupled to a second compression member;a diaphragm disposed between the first and second compression members; andcoupling elements that engage and couple together the first and second compression members, wherein all of the coupling elements are disposed about an outer perimeter of the diaphragm and guide translation of the first compression member relative to the second compression member, andwherein relative movement of the first and second compression members toward each other compresses the diaphragm.2. The mechanically activated pump in accordance with claim 1 , wherein the first compression member is slidably coupled to the second compression member.3. The mechanically activated pump in accordance with claim 2 , wherein the first compression member is biased to move away from the second compression member.4. The mechanically activated pump in accordance with claim 3 , wherein at least one spring provides the biasing of the first compression member away from the second compression member.5. The mechanically activated pump in accordance with claim 1 , wherein the diaphragm has a domed shape.6. The mechanically activated pump in accordance with claim 1 , wherein a lower portion of the ...

PUMP MECHANISM

A prosthetic system includes a prosthetic foot with a foot member defining a first end portion, a second end portion, and an intermediate portion defining a curvature and extending between the first and second end portions. A pump mechanism is coupled to the foot member. The pump mechanism includes a housing defining a cavity, and a membrane situated in the cavity. The pump mechanism is movable between an original configuration and an expanded configuration. A movable member includes a first portion coupled to the membrane and a second portion arranged to slidably engage the foot member. Relative movement between the first and second end portions moves the first portion of the movable member relative to the housing and slides the second portion along a length of the foot member to shift the pump mechanism between the original and expanded configurations. 1. A prosthetic system comprising:a prosthetic foot including a foot member having a flexible configuration and defining a first end portion, a second end portion, an intermediate portion defining a curvature and extending between the first and second end portions;a pump mechanism coupled to the foot member and positioned between the first and second end portions of the foot member, the pump mechanism including a housing defining a cavity, and a membrane situated in the cavity, the pump mechanism movable between an original configuration in which the volume of a fluid chamber defined between the membrane and a bottom of the cavity is zero or near-zero, and an expanded configuration in which the volume of the fluid chamber is increased; anda movable member including a first portion coupled to the membrane and a second portion arranged to slidably engage the foot member, wherein relative movement between the first and second end portions of the foot member moves the first portion of the movable member relative to the housing and slides the second portion of the movable member along a length of the foot member to shift ...

ORTHOPEDIC DAMPING DEVICE

An orthopedic damping device with a movably mounted piston and at least one chamber which has a wall and in which a compressible medium is compressed by moving the piston in a first direction and decompressed by moving the piston in an opposite second direction. The chamber is connected to a discharge channel. A closure element is paired with the discharge channel. The closure element is movably mounted on a support. The support is coupled to the piston or is designed as a piston. The closure element is coupled to a contact region which can be moved relative to the support. 1. An orthopedic damping device , comprising:a movably mounted piston;at least one chamber which has a wall;a compressible medium configured to be compressed within the at least one chamber by moving the piston in a first direction and decompressed by moving the piston in an opposite, second direction;wherein:the at least one chamber is connected to an outlet channel,the outlet channel is assigned a closure element,the closure element is movably mounted on a support,the support is at least one of coupled to the piston or formed as a piston, andthe closure element is coupled to a contact region, the closure element being movable relative to the support.2. The damping device as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the contact region is one of the wall of the at least one chamber or a wall of a blocking element.3. The damping device as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the piston is formed as one of a rotary piston or a cylindrical piston.4. The damping device as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the outlet channel leads into at least one of a surrounding atmosphere or a second chamber.5. The damping device as claimed in claim 1 , wherein a sound damper is arranged in or on the outlet channel.6. The damping device as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the closure element is mounted frictionally and slidingly on the contact region.7. The damping device as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the closure element is resiliently pre- ...

QUASI PASSIVE ASSISTIVE DEVICE

Implementations of a quasi-passive assistive device are disclosed. Such a device may comprise a spring mechanism that increases stiffness similar to a biological ankle. In one implementation, the spring mechanism may comprise a piston, valve, springs, or other elements to match a biological stiffness profile similar to that of a biological ankle. In one implementation, an apparatus for an artificial ankle is disclosed, comprising a piston coupled to a spring and the piston connected to a valve. The spring and the piston may store energy during dorsiflexion of the ankle and the spring and the piston release energy during plantarflexion of the ankle. The piston may store and release energy through the use of the valve. 1. An ankle device for emulating the stiffness of a human ankle during walking , the device comprising:a pneumatic piston disposed along an anterior-posterior axis of a foot of the ankle device; anda first spring disposed in series with respect to the pneumatic piston,wherein the pneumatic piston and the first spring are coupled together so as to store an energy produced by a dorsiflexion of the ankle device and release at least a portion of the stored energy during a plantarflexion of the ankle device.2. The ankle device of claim 1 , wherein the device is incorporated into one of the following: a prosthesis claim 1 , an orthosis claim 1 , or an exoskeleton.3. The ankle device of claim 1 , further comprising a valve coupled to the piston claim 1 , the valve configured to open or close in order to permit or restrict the flow of gas between a first chamber and a second chamber of the pneumatic piston.4. The ankle device of wherein the device has an increased stiffness during use of the device during a period of a stance phase of gait.5. The ankle device of wherein the period of the stance phase of gait begins at a heel-strike position and ends at a push-off position.6. The ankle device of claim 1 , further comprising a second spring operatively coupled to ...

SOFT EXOSUIT FOR ASSISTANCE WITH HUMAN MOTION

In at least one aspect, there is provided a system for generating force about one or more joints including a soft exosuit having a plurality of anchor elements and at least one connection element disposed between the plurality of anchor elements. The system also includes at least one sensor to determine a force the at least one connection element or at least one of the plurality of anchor elements and to output signals relating to the force, at least one actuator configured to change a tension in the soft exosuit and at least one controller configured to receive the signals output from the at least one sensor and actuate the at least one actuator responsive to the received signals. 1. A wearable exosuit comprising:a first anchor element configured for positioning on a first body part of a person wearing the wearable exosuit;a second anchor element configured for positioning on a second body part of the person wearing the wearable exosuit;at least one flexible connection element directly or indirectly coupling the first anchor element and the second anchor element; andan actuator configured to apply a tensile force to the at least one flexible connection element,wherein the at least one flexible connection element defines a pathway along the body, the pathway being configured to direct the tensile forces applied by the actuator along portions of the body between the first body part and the second body part for generating a moment for assisting motion of at least one of multiple body joints disposed within or between the first anchor element and the second anchor element.2. The wearable exosuit according to claim 1 ,wherein the pathway defined by the at least one flexible connection element is offset from a respective center of rotation of the body joint or body joints so as to generate a respective moment for assisting motion of the joint or joints.3. The wearable exosuit according to claim 2 ,wherein the pathway is offset from a center of rotation of a hip joint of ...

PROSTHETIC DEVICE, SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR INCREASING VACUUM ATTACHMENT

A prosthetic system includes a prosthetic valve having a valve body with a shaft defining a flow channel fluidly connectable to an interior of a socket. One or more ports in the valve body are in fluid communication with the flow channel and a membrane is positioned in the valve body. A release button associated with the membrane controls allow air flow into the socket via the one or more ports while air can flow out of the socket via the one or more ports independent of operation of the release button. A one-way valve is connected to the valve assembly that selectively permit air flow out of the socket. A valve insert is mountable on the socket and arranged to couple the valve body to the socket. The valve insert defines an opening configured to allow the shaft to extend through the valve insert and into the socket. 1. A prosthetic system comprising: a valve body including a shaft having a hollow configuration defining a flow channel for fluidly connecting the valve body to an interior of a socket;', 'one or more ports defined in the valve body and in fluid communication with the flow channel;', 'a membrane positioned in the valve body;', 'a release button associated with the valve body such that when the release button is pressed the membrane is deformed to allow air flow into the socket via the one or more ports and the flow channel and when the release button is not pressed air flow is permitted out of the socket via the flow channel and the one or more ports;', 'a one-way valve assembly connected to the valve body and in fluid communication with the flow channel, the one-way valve arranged to selectively permit air flow out of the socket via the flow channel and the one-way valve; and', 'a valve insert mountable on the socket and arranged to couple the valve body to the socket, the valve insert defining an opening sized and configured to allow the shaft to extend through the valve insert and into the socket., 'a prosthetic valve including2. The prosthetic ...

HYDRUALIC PROSTHETIC JOINT

The present invention relates to artificial limbs generally and to joints for the same. In particular, the present invention provides hydraulic functional units, generally classified as damping devices as connected between artificial limbs whereby to enable movement of artificial joints to closely correspond with natural human movement. In the provision of realistic joints, as used in prosthetic limbs, an important aspect in attempting to achieve a realistic movement is to provide a different operating characteristic to the joint when under load. Indeed, one of the more important characteristics of an artificial leg for achieving a natural-looking walking gait correspond with those of a so called stabilised knee, i.e. a knee which resists flexion when under load, that is when it is bearing at least some of the weight of the amputee. In accordance with the invention, there is provided hydraulic damper control elements for prostheses which utilize a pressure differential due to the presence a fluid flow as a direct control input for a at least one hydraulic valve. The valve can comprise a moveable element which abuts a resiliently mounted element which reduces the size of an aperture as the force increases. Further, a moveable body acts upon the valve to enable an increase or decrease of flow of hydraulic fluid through the valve, whereby to enable an increase in gait by way of reduction of resistance to flow or to reduce or stop flow by way of a stumble recovery mechanism. 1. A prosthesis comprising a first artificial limb component , a second artificial limb component , a joint pivotally coupling said first and second limb components to permit extension and flexion movements about the joint and a hydraulic damper comprising a variable volume chamber for hydraulic fluid coupled between said first and second limb components ,wherein the damper is operable to allow relative movement of said first and second limb components about the joint by passage of an incompressible ...

ACTUATOR DEVICE, POWER ASSIST ROBOT AND HUMANOID ROBOT

[Object] To provide a hybrid actuator attaining both driving force and responsiveness, capable of reducing inertia of a movable portion. 1. An actuator device driven by fluid pressure , comprising:a fluid pressure artificial muscle having one end fixed and contracting in a longitudinal direction with increase of said fluid pressure introduced from outside to a fluid bladder for driving;a flexible driving force transmitting cable for transmitting contraction force of said fluid pressure artificial muscle from the other end of said fluid pressure artificial muscle to an object to be driven;a stopper fixed at a prescribed position of said driving force transmitting cable;an engaging member provided on a side of said other end of said fluid pressure artificial muscle for transmitting the contraction force of said fluid pressure artificial muscle to said driving force transmitting cable by engaging with said stopper in response to contraction of said fluid pressure artificial muscle being a prescribed amount or larger; andenergizing means for applying, when said stopper and said engaging member are not in said engaged state, tensile force to said driving force transmitting cable to maintain tension.2. The actuator device according to claim 1 , further comprisinga cylinder provided in said fluid pressure artificial muscle, fixed to said other end of said fluid pressure artificial muscle and having the inside sealed from said fluid pressure; whereinsaid engaging member is a lid of said cylinder provided at said other end of said fluid pressure artificial muscle, said lid having a through hole through which said driving force transmitting cable passes;said stopper is fixed to said driving force transmitting cable inside said cylinder, has an outer diameter not smaller than said through hole and is engageable with said through hole; andsaid energizing means is a resilient member coupling said stopper with a bottom portion of said cylinder.3. The actuator device according to ...

METHOD FOR CONTROLLING AN ORTHOPEDIC JOINT DEVICE, AND ORTHOPEDIC JOINT DEVICE

The invention relates to a method for controlling an orthopaedic joint device of a lower extremity. The joint device has an upper part () and a lower part () mounted in a hinged manner on the latter. Arranged between the upper part () and the lower part () is an energy converter () by which, during walking, kinetic energy from the relative movement between the lower part () and the upper part () is converted or stored and supplied again to the joint in order to support the relative movement, wherein kinetic energy within one movement cycle is converted and/or stored and, within the same movement cycle, is supplied again as kinetic energy to the joint device () in a controlled manner and staggered in time. 132-. (canceled)33. A method for controlling an orthopedic joint device of a lower extremity , the orthopedic joint device having an upper part and a lower part mounted in an articulated manner thereon , the method comprising:providing an energy conversion device arranged between the upper part and the lower part, the energy conversion device comprising a hydraulic cylinder with a piston arranged on a piston rod, and a spring arranged within one of the first and second chambers, the piston separating the hydraulic cylinder into a first chamber and a second chamber, a volume of the first chamber being reduced during a flexion movement of the lower part relative to the upper part and increased during an extension movement of the lower part relative to the upper part, the spring being loaded during the flexion movement and relaxed during the extension movement;converting and storing kinetic energy from relative movement between the lower part and the upper part with the energy conversion device; andfeeding back the kinetic energy to the orthopedic joint device with the energy conversion device during a stance phase to assist with the extension movement;wherein within a movement cycle, kinetic energy is converted and stored and, within the same movement cycle, is fed ...

Interchangeable Pump-Lock For Prosthetic Socket And Method Of Use

An interchangeable lock-pump prosthetic system that includes a universal dummy, vacuum pump, and mechanical lock. Each of the three objects have similar geometries for the purpose of fitting into a prosthetic, whereupon a user may for instance, swap the vacuum pump with the lock, depending on the needs of the user and without changing to a separate prosthetic. The universal dummy is an inactive component and acts as a placeholder during manufacturing of the socket, for the eventual inclusion of the vacuum pump or mechanical lock. The vacuum pump is a pressure dependent object that acts to remove any residual air between the socket and the elastomeric liner. The lock takes advantage of a mechanical locking pin which receives a properly configured liner, thus securing the user within the prosthetic socket. 1. A removable vacuum pump for creating a vacuum within a prosthetic socket comprising:an elastomeric housing having an inner fluid channel, an upper exterior surface, and an exterior sealing element;a spring member, a first one-way valve preventing backflow of air, a second one-way valve preventing backflow of air, wherein the spring member, first one-way valve, and second one-way valve are disposed within said inner fluid channel.2. The vacuum pump of wherein the upper exterior surface is concave.3. The vacuum pump of wherein the upper exterior surface is convex.4. The vacuum pump of wherein the spring member comprises a metal.5. The vacuum pump of wherein the spring member comprises a foam.6. The vacuum pump of wherein the spring member comprises an elastomer.7. The vacuum pump of wherein the second one-way valve forces air to flow through a third one-way valve positioned in a prosthetic socket.8. The vacuum pump of wherein the elastomeric housing is tapered.9. A method of configuring a pump-lock assembly to be fitted to an amputee comprising:molding a distal end of a prosthetic socket to a removable dummy;removing the dummy from the distal end of the prosthetic ...

WEARABLE EXOSKELETON SYSTEM AND METHOD

A fluidic exoskeleton system that comprises a fluidic actuator unit configured to be associated with a user wearing the fluidic exoskeleton system, the fluidic actuator unit including: a rotatable joint a first and second plate coupled to the rotatable joint and an inflatable actuator extending between the first and second plate. 1. A fluidic exoskeleton system that comprises: a rotatable joint disposed laterally and adjacent to a respective knee of the user with a rotational joint axis of the rotatable joint being disposed coincident with a rotational axis of the respective knee of the user wearing the fluidic exoskeleton system,', 'an upper arm coupled to the rotatable joint and extending along a length of an upper leg portion above the respective knee of the user wearing the fluidic exoskeleton system,', 'a lower arm coupled to the rotatable joint and extending along a length of a lower leg portion below the respective knee of the user wearing the fluidic exoskeleton system,', 'a first and second plate extending from the rotatable joint, and', a fluid-impermeable tube that includes a woven fabric material and that is inextensible along a first length from the first plate to the second plate and inextensible circumferentially about the fluid-impermeable tube, and', 'a cavity defined by the fluid-impermeable tube, the fluid-impermeable tube configured to extend along the first length of the fluid-impermeable tube when the fluid-impermeable tube is fluidically inflated by introducing fluid into the cavity, the fluid-impermeable tube configured to extend and direct force axially by pressing on the first and second plates, the fluid-impermeable tube configured to extend to a maximum length defined by the inextensibility of the fluid-impermeable tube along the first length,, 'an inflatable actuator extending between the first and second plates, the inflatable actuator comprising], 'a left and right fluidic leg actuator unit configured to be respectively associated with ...

Multi-Segment Reinforced Actuators and Applications

A multi-segment reinforced actuator includes (a) a soft actuator body that defines a chamber and (b) a plurality of distinct reinforcement structures on or in respective segments of the soft actuator body. First and second reinforcement structures are respectively configured to produce a first and second actuation motions, respectively, in first and second segments of the soft actuator body when fluid flows into or out of the chamber. The actuation motions are selected bending, extending, expansion, contraction, twisting, and combinations thereof; and the first actuation motion differs from the second actuation motion. The actuator can be used, e.g., to facilitate bending of the thumb with corresponding bending, extending, expansion, contraction, and twisting actuation motions.

Electronically controlled prosthetic system

A prosthetic joint system for users comprising a housing having an interior cavity, a center axis in said interior cavity, and an attachment means for fixedly connecting said housing to said user; an inner cylinder disposed in said housing interior cavity wherein said inner cylinder rotates around said center axis of said housing; an appendage attached to said inner cylinder; a sensor system attached to said appendage; and a dampening system, having a power source, in communication with said sensor system, said inner cylinder, and said housing for controlling dampening of the rotation of said inner cylinder around said center axis of said housing.

PROSTHETIC KNEE WITH A RECTIFICATION HYDRAULIC SYSTEM

Described here are prosthetic systems, devices, and methods of use therefor. Generally, a prosthesis may be configured to set a resistance to rotation of a prosthetic joint based on a phase of gait. The prosthesis may include a first cylinder, a first piston slidable within the first cylinder, a fluid sump, and a fluid circuit. The fluid circuit may include a plurality of interconnected fluid channels having a unidirectional variable-resistance valve and a set of check valves that are configured to provide unidirectional flow through the valve during piston compression and extension. 1. A prosthesis , comprising:a first cylinder comprising a first cylinder port and a second cylinder port;a first piston slidable within the first cylinder;a fluid sump comprising a sump port, and a first fluid channel comprising a first channel inlet, a first channel outlet, and a unidirectional variable-resistance valve configured to set a variable resistance to fluid flow through the first fluid channel;', 'a second fluid channel comprising a second channel inlet, a second channel outlet, and a second channel check valve;', 'a third fluid channel comprising a third channel inlet, a third channel outlet, and a third channel check valve;', 'a fourth fluid channel comprising a fourth channel inlet, a fourth channel outlet, and a fourth channel check valve;', 'a fifth fluid channel comprising a fifth channel inlet, a fifth channel outlet, and a fifth channel check valve;', 'a first intersection comprising the first channel inlet, the second channel outlet, and the fifth channel outlet;', 'a second intersection comprising the first cylinder port, the second channel inlet, and the third channel outlet;', 'a third intersection comprising the sump port, the third channel inlet, and the fourth channel inlet; and', 'a fourth intersection comprising the second cylinder port, the fourth channel outlet, and the fifth channel inlet., 'a fluid circuit, comprising2. The prosthesis of claim 1 , ...

VACUUM ASSISTED SUSPENSION SYSTEM

A vacuum assisted suspension system includes a prosthetic foot and a pump mechanism connected to the foot and fluidly couplable to a prosthetic socket. The pump mechanism includes an elongate pivoting member rotatable relative to the prosthetic foot about a joint and including a distal recess. A piston is connected to the foot and is movably received in the recess. A fluid chamber is defined between the piston and the interior of the recess. When no weight is placed on the foot a volume of the fluid chamber is zero or near-zero and when weight of a user is placed on the prosthetic foot the pivoting member rotates away from the piston and expands the volume of the fluid chamber to draw fluid into the fluid chamber from the prosthetic socket. 1. A vacuum assisted suspension system , comprising:a prosthetic foot;a prosthetic socket;an elongate compression transfer element connected to the prosthetic foot; anda vacuum pump connected to the prosthetic socket and the compression transfer element, the vacuum pump including a housing defining an enclosed space to receive a fluid, at least one wall of the housing and at least one movable wall defining a fluid compartment in the housing, the at least one movable wall being connected to the compression transfer element;wherein the compression transfer element causes the at least one movable wall of the fluid compartment to move and increase the volume of the fluid compartment in response to a compressive force on the prosthetic foot thereby drawing in fluid from the prosthetic socket;wherein in the absence of a compressive force, the movable wall is arranged to shift in a direction decreasing the volume of the fluid compartment;wherein the housing comprises a pair of opposed walls and a pair of opposed elastomeric sidewalls, the opposed walls and opposed elastomeric sidewalls forming the fluid compartment and at least one of the walls being attached to the compression transfer element.2. The system according to claim 1 , ...

Methods and Apparatus for Improved Interface Between the Human Body and Prosthetic or Similar Devices

Apparatus is provided to cushion between a prosthetic socket and an amputee's residual limb. A plurality of putty-filled packets are assembled into a liner that, when assembled, provides a generally smooth contact surface toward the residual limb. At least one of the packets has a fluid bladder positioned between the putty material and the socket, and the fluid volume in the bladder can be adjusted to affect the fit of the assembly on the residual limb. Methods of fabrication, fitting, and use of such prosthetic devices are disclosed. 14-. (canceled)5. An apparatus for cushioning between a prosthetic socket and an amputee's residual limb , including:a plurality of adjustable-volume bladders interconnected with each other such that fluid can flow from one bladder to another, said interconnected bladders configured to lie between a residual limb and the socket, said volume of fluid being adjustable via adding or withdrawing the fluid from said bladders, anda plurality of discrete non-adjustable packets assembled into a liner covering at least a substantial portion of the interface between the residual limb and the socket, said packets positioned so that at least some portions of adjacent packets overlap each other, said liner providing a smooth contact surface between a residual limb and the interior of said socket, said packets filled with a non-Newtonian shear thickening fluid, said packets and bladders sized and configured and said packets filled with sufficiently thick fluid to prevent shear slippage of their surfaces laterally when exposed to shear forces exerted during use of the socket.6. An apparatus for cushioning between a prosthetic socket and an amputee's residual limb , including:a plurality of adjustable liquid-filled bladders, the volume of said bladders being adjustable by pumping liquid into and/or out of the bladders, anda plurality of non-adjustable packets filled with a fluid more viscous than the liquid in said adjustable bladders, said packets ...

VACUUM PUMP SYSTEMS FOR PROSTHETIC LIMBS AND METHODS OF USING THE SAME

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 compressible bladder 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 within a fluid circuit of a hybrid pump system to provide vacuum engagement between a prosthetic device and a residual limb. 1. A pump system for use in suspension of a prosthetic device from a residual limb comprising:a prosthetic device having a residual limb receiving socket;a mechanically activated pump having pumping action that requires a mechanical input via movement of the prosthetic device and having a first compression member coupled to a second compression member;the mechanically activated pump being connected within a fluid circuit that evacuates air from the residual limb receiving socket;an elastomeric element disposed between the first and second compression members and being in fluid communication with the fluid circuit; andcoupling elements that engage and couple together the first and second compression members, wherein all of the coupling elements are disposed about an outer perimeter of the elastomeric element.2. The pump system in accordance with claim 1 , wherein the elastomeric element further comprises a compressible bladder.3. (canceled)4. The pump system in accordance with claim 1 , wherein the residual limb receiving socket is configured to receive a transfemoral residual limb.5. The pump system in accordance with claim 1 , wherein the residual limb receiving socket is configured to receive a transtibial residual limb.6. The pump system in accordance with claim 1 , wherein the first compression ...

Prosthetic Foot With Programmable Movement

A programmable prosthetic foot includes a heel member simulating a heel portion of a human foot. The heel member has an elongated heel member shaft extending in a vertical direction. The foot also includes a forefoot member simulating a forefoot portion of a human foot. The forefoot member has an elongated forefoot member shaft extending in the vertical direction. A sensor on the foot detects compressive force on the heel member shaft and/or forefoot member shaft during a step. An actuator on the foot imparts vertical translation to the heel member shaft and/or forefoot member shaft. An electronic controller in operable communication with the actuator includes program instructions for operating the actuator by imparting the vertical translation to the heel member shaft and/or forefoot member shaft as a function of the compressive force detected by the sensor. 1. A method of controlling the movement of a prosthetic foot having independent heel and forefoot members respectively forming a heel and a forefoot portion of a wearer's foot , the heel and forefoot members being received by an ankle member in such a way that , when the wearer takes a step , the heel and forefoot members translate independently of one in a vertical direction , the method comprising:detecting a compressive force applied to the heel member and/or forefoot member during a wearer's step;receiving, by an electronic controller, a signal corresponding to the detected compressive force;retrieving, from machine readable memory, a dataset corresponding to a heel member and forefoot member positions during the wearer's step; andadjusting a degree of extension of an actuator in operable communication with the controller based on the dataset, thereby causing the heel member and/or forefoot member to translate in a vertical direction while the wearer takes a step.21. The method of clam , wherein:a user communication device is in wireless communication with the electronic controller;the machine readable ...

Orthopedic device

An orthopedic device for the orthotic or prosthetic provision of a patient. The orthopedic device includes a knee joint, which has a proximal upper part and a distal lower part arranged pivotably thereon, an ankle joint, a pivoted foot part which can be fastened distally to the ankle joint, and a shin part arranged between the ankle joint and the knee joint. The upper part of the knee joint or a thigh part fastened thereto that can be attached to the patient's body and is coupled with the foot part by means of a force transfer device, which causes a plantar flexion of the foot part when a knee is flexed.

Ankle-Foot Prosthesis for Automatic Adaptation to Sloped Walking Surfaces

An ankle-foot prosthesis includes a foot plate, an ankle frame attached to the foot plate, a yoke pivotally connected to the ankle frame and including a member for attaching to a leg, a damper having a first end connected to the yoke and a second end connected to the ankle frame, and a control mechanism for switching the damper between low and high settings. 1. An ankle-foot prosthesis , comprising:a) a foot plate including a rear portion and a forward deflectable portion;b) an ankle frame including anterior and posterior portions and an apex portion;c) said posterior portion of said ankle frame attached to said rear portion of said foot plate;d) a yoke including front and rear end portions, and a fulcrum point therebetween;e) said yoke pivotally connected to said apex portion of said ankle frame at the fulcrum point thereof and including a member for attaching to a prosthetic leg;f) a hydraulic damper having a first end pivotally connected to the rear end portion of said yoke and a second end pivotally connected to said ankle frame;g) a stiffness member disposed in parallel to said damper;h) a fluid control circuit for controlling extension and compression of said damper;i) said anterior portion of said ankle frame including a curved surface inclined upwardly relative to said foot plate and forwardly toward said forward deflectable portion of said foot plate; andj) said curved surface forming a roll-over surface for limiting a dorsiflexion deflection of said forward deflectable portion of said foot plate by a direct engagement therewith.2. The ankle-foot prosthesis of claim 1 , wherein:a) said fluid control circuit includes a cutoff valve for allowing dorsiflexion and plantarflexion of said ankle-foot prosthesis.3. The ankle-foot prosthesis of claim 2 , wherein:a) said cutoff valve allows movement of said ankle-foot prosthesis during a gait cycle between prosthetic side toe off and the next prosthetic side foot flat.4. The ankle-foot prosthesis of claim 2 , wherein ...

LOWER-LEG EXOSKELETON SYSTEM AND METHOD

A lower-leg exoskeleton including an inflatable actuator that is configured to be worn over a front portion of a foot of a user; a rigid foot structure coupled to the inflatable actuator that is configured to surround a portion of a foot of the user; and a rigid shin structure coupled to the inflatable actuator and configured to engage the shin of the user. When worn by a user, the lower-leg exoskeleton can receive and transmit an actuator load generated by the inflatable actuator to a load contact point defined by the rigid foot structure which is forward of the heel of a user. Inflation of the inflatable actuator can generate a moment about the ankle of a user to cause flexion of the foot of the user. 1. An exoskeleton system comprising: a fluidic system; and', 'a control system operably coupled to and configured to control the fluidic system, and, 'an actuation system that includes an inflatable actuator that is operably coupled to and configured to be inflated by the fluidic system and configured to be worn over a front portion of a foot of a user;', 'a rigid foot structure coupled to a first actuator end of the inflatable actuator, configured to surround a portion of a foot of the user; and', 'a rigid shin structure coupled to a second actuator end of the inflatable actuator and configured to engage the shin of the user;, 'a first and second lower-leg exoskeleton that each compriseswherein, the inflatable actuator, rigid foot structure, and rigid shin structure are configured to, when worn by a user, receive and transmit an actuator load generated by the inflatable actuator to a load contact point defined by the rigid foot structure and forward of the heel of the user; andwherein inflation of the inflatable actuator generates a moment about the ankle of a user to cause flexion of the foot of the user.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the rigid foot structure comprises:a pair of sidewalls configured to extend around the foot of a user and including first and ...

Vacuum suspension system

A vacuum suspension system includes a rigid socket defining a socket wall having exterior and interior surfaces. The socket defines an aperture extending between the exterior and interior surfaces, and has a closed distal end and an open proximal end with an interior cavity defined by the interior surface. A fluid regulator is provided at the aperture and operatively engages the fluid regulator. A pump system includes a pump and a covering for securing over the exterior surface of the socket and carrying the pump. The pump is configured for placement proximate to the fluid regulator and arranged for drawing air from the socket through the aperture. A chamber having a variable volume is formed by a space defined between the exterior surface and an inner surface of the covering proximate to the pump.

PROSTHETIC DEVICE, SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR INCREASING VACUUM ATTACHMENT

A prosthetic device includes a first place including a first end portion arranged for attachment to a foot member of a prosthetic foot. A second end portion is arranged to extend freely over at least a portion of the top surface of the foot member. A second plate includes a first end extending over a heel member of the prosthetic foot and a second end extending over and attached to the second end portion of the first plate. The second end portion of the first plate situated between the foot member and the second plate. A pump mechanism includes a housing secured to the second plate and a membrane operatively connected to the first place and the housing. The pump mechanism defines a fluid chamber between a bottom surface of the housing and a top surface of the membrane. 1. A prosthetic device arranged for securing to a prosthetic foot including a foot member defining a top surface and a bottom surface opposite the top surface , and a heel member attached to the bottom surface of the foot member , the prosthetic device comprising:a first plate including a first end portion arranged for attachment to the foot member, and a second end portion arranged to extend freely over at least a portion of the top surface of the foot member;a second plate including a first end extending over the heel member and a second end extending over and attached to the second end portion of the first plate, the second end portion of the first plate situated between the foot member and the second plate; anda pump mechanism including a housing secured to the second plate and a membrane operatively connected to the first plate and the housing, the pump mechanism defining a fluid chamber between a bottom surface of the housing and a top surface of the membrane.2. The prosthetic device of claim 1 , wherein the first and second plates are movable relative to one another such that when no weight is placed on the prosthetic foot the volume of the fluid chamber is zero or near-zero and when weight of ...

Vacuum Pump Systems For Prosthetic Limbs And Methods Of Using The Same

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. 1. A mechanically activated pump for use in suspension of a prosthetic device from a residual limb comprising:a first compression member coupled to a second compression member;a diaphragm disposed between the first and second compression members; andcoupling elements that engage and couple together the first and second compression members, wherein all of the coupling elements are disposed about an outer perimeter of the diaphragm and guide translation of the first compression member relative to the second compression member, andwherein relative movement of the first and second compression members toward each other compresses the diaphragm.2. The mechanically activated pump in accordance with claim 1 , wherein the first compression member is slidably coupled to the second compression member.3. The mechanically activated pump in accordance with claim 2 , wherein the first compression member is biased to move away from the second compression member.4. The mechanically activated pump in accordance with claim 3 , wherein at least one spring provides the biasing of the first compression member away from the second compression member.5. The mechanically activated pump in accordance with claim 1 , wherein the diaphragm has a suction cup shape.6. The mechanically activated pump in accordance with claim 1 , wherein a lower portion of the ...

ROBOTIC EXOSKELETON WITH FALL CONTROL AND ACTUATION

Method for controlling an exoskeleton () involves detecting an occurrence of an uncontrolled acceleration of at least a portion of the exoskeleton, as might occur during a fall. In response, the exoskeleton is caused to automatically transition at least one motion actuator () from a first operational state to a second operational state. In the first operational state, the one or more motion actuators are configured to provide a motive force for controlled movement of the exoskeleton. In the second operational state, the one or more motion actuators are configured to function as energy dampers which dissipate a shock load exerted upon the exoskeleton. 1. An exoskeleton system , comprising:an exoskeleton configured to be worn by a human operator;an exoskeleton control system;a plurality of motion actuators responsive to the control system to cause movement of a plurality of structural members comprising the exoskeleton;a plurality of sensors which sense movement of a plurality of human body parts associated with the operator and communicate sensor data concerning such movements to the exoskeleton control system;the control system responsive to the sensor data for actuating the plurality of motion actuators to cause movement of the exoskeleton which corresponds to the movement of the human body parts which has been sensed;wherein the motion actuators are arranged to selectively transition in response to signals from the control system signals from a first operational state to a second operational state;and wherein said motion actuators in the first operational state are configured to provide a motive force for controlled movement of the exoskeleton structure, and in the second operational state are configured to function as a damper to dissipate a shock load exerted upon the exoskeleton.2. The exoskeleton system according to claim 1 , wherein the exoskeleton is comprised of a structural framework formed of a plurality of rigid structural members connected to each other ...

A THREADED KNEE PROSTHESIS JOINT

The invention is related to an above-knee prosthesis knee-joint mechanism that is connected with a stump which enables the above-knee amputees to walk. The invention is a threaded prosthesis knee-joint or knee-joint prosthesis which has a moving cylinder joint that enables the movement of the tibia prosthesis that is matched with the femur that is connected with the shoe having a horizontal-angle thread and threads above the femur and the shoe. 2. The knee prosthesis joint according to claim 1 , further comprising: adjuster screws which arrange a flow rate of liquid that is displaced by the moving cylinder while implementing hydraulic power that is derived from a liquid movement caused by the piston cylinder within the receptacle in order for the patient to control a opening resistance of her/his joint.3. The knee prosthesis joint according to claim 1 , further comprising a compressing spring claim 1 , which is placed on the piston shaft claim 1 , and is connected at an end of the femur piece and at an other end of the tibia piece.4. The knee prosthesis joint according to claim 1 , further comprising a torsion spring claim 1 , which is placed on the piston shaft and connected at an end of the tibia piece and at an other end of the femur piece. This application is the national phase entry of International Application No. PCT/TR2015/050082, filed on Sep. 1, 2015, which is based upon and claims priority to Turkish Patent Application No. 2014/10250 filed on Sep. 2, 2014, and Turkish Patent Application No. 2014/10592 filed on Sep. 9, 2014, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.The invention is related to an above the knee prosthesis knee-joint mechanism that is connected with a stump which enables the above knee amputee patients to walk.Amputation is the removal of a part or whole of limb of a person because of medical reasons or accidents. This operation can be performed as medical treatment because of any disease of the person, as well as in ...

HYDRAULIC VALVE

A valve includes a case comprising a pin bore, a pin configured to move axially in the pin bore, wherein the pin seals the pin bore, a first channel in communication with the pin bore, a second channel in communication with the pin bore, wherein the second channel comprises a restrictor at a location offset from the first channel, a third channel in communication with the pin bore, wherein the third channel comprises a check valve, and the second channel and third channel are in communication with each other. The valve can be a miniature valve that is used in the control of hydraulic fluid in prosthesis, such as a prosthetic ankle joint. 1. A valve , comprising:a case comprising a pin bore;a pin configured to move axially in the pin bore, wherein the pin seals the pin bore;a first channel in communication with the pin bore;a second channel in communication with the pin bore wherein the second channel comprises a restrictor at a location offset from the first channel;a third channel in communication with the pin bore, wherein the third channel comprises a check valve, and the second channel and third channel are in communication with each other.2. The valve of claim 1 , wherein the case comprises a partly bored hole claim 1 , and an insert is placed in the partly bored hole claim 1 , and the pin bore is in the axial center of the insert.3. The valve of claim 1 , wherein the case comprises a partly bored hole claim 1 , and an insert is placed in the partly bored hole claim 1 , and the pin bore is in the axial center of the insert claim 1 , and the insert includes an annular space around the periphery of the insert and a plurality of holes equidistantly spaced around the annulus claim 1 , wherein the holes extend from the annular space to the pin bore.4. The valve of claim 1 , wherein the case comprises a partly bored hole claim 1 , and an insert is placed in the partly bored hole claim 1 , and the pin bore is in the axial center of the insert claim 1 , and the insert ...

PROSTHETIC JOINTS

The present invention relates to a prosthetic leg for those having a femoral amputee, namely those having an above the knee stump, where certain movements can be difficult to perform. Known prosthetic knee joints that are weight-activated cannot substantially assist short-stumped individuals. The weight placed on the toe will typically cause disengagement of any stance mode there otherwise might be. The invention provides a solution to the problems addressed above. The present invention seeks to provide an improved mechanically operated prosthesis for a femoral amputee. The invention also provides an improved electrically-operated prosthesis for a transfemoral amputee. 1. A transfemoral amputee prosthetic knee joint having a center of mass , comprising:a thigh element;a knee element; anda damper;wherein the thigh element is provided with a proximal attachment device, whereby to enable attachment of the prosthetic knee joint to an amputee stump interface;wherein the knee element provides an effective knee axis distal to a center of mass of the knee joint, throughout its range of movement, thereby allowing movement of the knee element about the effective knee axis relative to the thigh element, and wherein the knee element is provided with a distal attachment device whereby to enable attachment of a shin element and a foot;wherein the damper is associated with the thigh element to provide at least a bimodal level of control of movement of the knee element relative to the thigh element; andwherein the damper has a mass with a center of mass being proximal relative to a central point of the knee element;whereby the damper is operable to provide control of movement of the knee element without substantially affecting a location of a mass of the prosthetic knee joint relative to the proximal attachment device throughout a range of movement.2. The prosthetic knee joint of claim 1 , wherein the damper is positioned such that the operation of the damper has a neutral effect ...

NEGATIVE GAUGE PRESSURE DYNAMIC CONVECTION SYSTEM HAVING INNER AND OUTER AIRFLOW REGULATED ENVIRONMENTS FOR ARTIFICIAL LIMB AND ASSOCIATED METHODS

The forced convection system includes a limb socket configured to define an outer regulated airflow environment between the socket and the liner, and an airflow generation device coupled to an inner airflow regulated environment and the outer regulated airflow environment and configured to generate airflow therein. A convection control system including convection control circuitry is configured to adjust the airflow generation device and configured to dynamically control airflow to maintain negative gauge pressure therein and transfer thermal energy therein to an external atmosphere. The convection control system further includes a rising edge triggered negative gauge pressure regulation device including pressure control circuitry and an associated valve configured to control airflow proportioning devices to open respective airflow paths to the regulated airflow environments. The convection control system is configured to provide regulated differential pressure forced airflow convection to the regulated airflow environments. 1. A forced convention system configured to be attached to a residual limb of an amputee , the system comprising:a conformable convection liner configured to be donned over the residual limb and define an inner regulated airflow environment between the liner and the residual limb;a limb socket configured to receive the residual limb and donned liner, and define an outer regulated airflow environment between the socket and the liner;an airflow generation device coupled to the inner airflow regulated environment and the outer regulated airflow environment and configured to generate airflow within the inner regulated airflow environment and the outer regulated airflow environment;a convection control system including convection control circuitry configured to adjust the airflow generation device and configured to dynamically control airflow within the inner regulated airflow environment and the outer regulated airflow environment to maintain ...

NEGATIVE GAUGE PRESSURE DYNAMIC CONVECTION SYSTEM HAVING AN OUTER AIRFLOW REGULATED ENVIRONMENT FOR ARTIFICIAL LIMB AND ASSOCIATED METHODS

The forced convection system defines an outer regulated airflow environment between the socket and the liner, and an airflow generation device is coupled to the outer regulated airflow environment and configured to generate airflow therein. A convection control system includes convection control circuitry and is configured to adjust the airflow generation device and configured to dynamically control airflow within the outer regulated airflow environment to maintain negative gauge pressure therein and transfer thermal energy therein to an external atmosphere. The convection control system further includes a rising edge triggered negative gauge pressure regulation device including pressure control circuitry and an associated valve configured to control the first airflow proportioning device to open airflow paths to outer regulated airflow environment. The convection control system is configured to provide regulated differential pressure forced airflow convection to the outer regulated airflow environment with the rising edge triggered negative gauge pressure regulation device. 1. A forced convection system configured to be attached to a residual limb of an amputee , the system comprising:a conformable convection liner configured to be donned over the residual limb;a limb socket configured to receive the residual limb and donned liner, and define an outer regulated airflow environment between the socket and the liner;an airflow generation device coupled to the outer regulated airflow environment and configured to generate airflow within the outer regulated airflow environment;a convection control system including convection control circuitry configured to adjust the airflow generation device and configured to dynamically control airflow within the outer regulated airflow environment to maintain negative gauge pressure therein and transfer thermal energy therein to an external atmosphere; anda first airflow proportioning device coupled to the outer regulated airflow ...

PROSTHETIC WITH VOICE COIL VALVE

A prosthetic includes a pair of prosthetic members movably coupled together to allow movement of the pair of prosthetic members with respect to one another. A hydraulic actuator or damper including hydraulic fluid in a hydraulic chamber is coupled to one of the pair of prosthetic members. A hydraulic piston is movably disposed in the hydraulic chamber and coupled to another of the pair of prosthetic members. A hydraulic flow channel is fluidly coupled between opposite sides of the chamber to allow hydraulic fluid to move between the opposite sides of the chamber as the hydraulic piston moves therein. A voice coil valve is coupled to the hydraulic flow channel to vary resistance to flow of hydraulic fluid through the flow channel, and thus movement of the piston in the chamber, and thus influencing a rate of movement of the pair of prosthetic members with respect to one another. 132-. (canceled)33. A prosthetic device , comprising:a) a pair of prosthetic members movably coupled together to allow movement of the pair of prosthetic members with respect to one another;b) a hydraulic actuator or damper including hydraulic fluid in a hydraulic chamber coupled to one of the pair of prosthetic members, and a hydraulic piston movably disposed in the hydraulic chamber and coupled to another of the pair of prosthetic members;c) a hydraulic flow channel fluidly coupled between opposite sides of the chamber to allow hydraulic fluid to move between the opposite sides of the chamber as the hydraulic piston moves therein; andd) a voice coil valve coupled to the hydraulic flow channel to vary resistance to flow of hydraulic fluid through the flow channel, wherein the voice coil valve in a non-powered state allows a hydraulic fluid to move between the opposite sides of the chamber through a separate hydraulic flow channel.34. The device of claim 33 , wherein the voice coil valve comprises a safety port.35. The device of claim 34 , wherein the voice coil valve comprises an orifice ...

PROSTHESIS FOR A LOWER LIMB

A prosthesis for a residual limb includes an element for receiving a stump fitted on or established by a support part, a distal prosthetic part, and an absorbing system. The distal prosthetic part is assembled on the support part by a pivot link forming a joint to enable flexion or extension of the distal prosthetic part with respect to the element for receiving. The absorbing system absorbs the flexion or extension efforts and is connected to the distal prosthetic part and to one of a rod or a lever that is pivotally fitted on the distal prosthetic device. The rod is mounted to the lever and to the support part. 1. A prosthesis for a residual limb , comprising:an element for receiving a stump fitted on or established by a support part;a distal prosthetic part assembled on said support part by a pivot link forming a joint to enable flexion or extension of the distal prosthetic part with respect to the element for receiving;an absorbing system to absorb the flexion or extension efforts, said absorbing system being connected to the distal prosthetic part and to one of a rod or a lever that is pivotally fitted on the distal prosthetic device;wherein the rod is mounted to the lever and to the support part.2. The prosthesis according to claim 1 , wherein the absorbing system comprises at least one of a dampening device claim 1 , a spring device and an actuator device.3. The prosthesis according to claim 1 , wherein the support part comprises one of a prosthetic shaft claim 1 , a cup shaped receiving element configured to be connected with a prosthetic shaft or a liner claim 1 , or an osseointegratable device.4. The prosthesis according to claim 1 , wherein the lever comprises two lever arms on opposing sides of a pivot axis to establish a rocker claim 1 , the absorbing system being fitted on a first lever arm claim 1 , and the rod being fitted on a second lever arm.5. The prosthesis according to claim 1 , wherein the lever comprises a single lever arm claim 1 , the ...

POLYCENTRIC KNEE JOINT HAVING AN ADJUSTMENT-FREE MULTI-STAGE AIR CYLINDER

A polycentric knee joint including an adjustment-free multi-stage prosthesis air cylinder. The air cylinder has an air cylinder body, a piston assembly slidably mounted on the air cylinder body, a first check valve mounted in the piston, and a multi-stage air pressure valve mounted inside a lower air way of the air cylinder body. The multi-stage air pressure valve automatically cushions movements of the piston assembly without being adjusted whenever a user of the prosthesis joint walks slowly or quickly, for improved comfort. 1. A polycentric knee joint having first and second anterior links pivotally connected to a chassis and a housing , and a posterior link pivotally connected to chassis and the housing , an air cylinder arranged for adjustment-free multi-stage movement and pivotally connecting to the first and second anterior links and the housing , the air cylinder comprising: a top portion;', 'a bottom portion, the bottom portion connecting to the first and second anterior links;', 'an air chamber defined inside the air cylinder body; and', 'a lower air way formed in the bottom portion of the air cylinder body and having two ends respectively connected to the air chamber and an outside of the air cylinder body;, 'an air cylinder body having'} a piston rod mounted through the top portion of the air cylinder body and having an inner end, the piston rod pivotally connecting to the housing;', 'a piston attached to the inner end of the piston rod, mounted in the air chamber of the air cylinder body, and dividing the air chamber into an upper air chamber and a lower air chamber; and', 'an upper air way formed in the piston rod and having two ends respectively connected to the outside of the air cylinder body and the upper air chamber;, 'a piston assembly slidably mounted on the air cylinder body and having'}a first check valve disposed in the piston and having two ends respectively connected to the upper air chamber and the lower air chamber, and the first check ...

ORTHOPEDIC DEVICE

The invention relates to an orthopaedic device for the orthotic or prosthetic provision of a patient with •a knee joint (), which has a proximal upper part () and a distal lower part () arranged pivotably thereon, •an ankle joint (), •a pivoted foot part () which can be fastened distally to the ankle joint (), and •a shin part () arranged between the ankle joint () and the knee joint (), wherein the upper part () of the knee joint () or a thigh part fastened thereto that can be attached to the patient's body is coupled with the foot part () by means of a force transfer device (), which causes a plantar flexion of the foot part () when a knee is flexed. 1. An orthopedic device for the orthotic or prosthetic provision of a patient , comprising:a knee joint, which has a proximal upper part and a distal lower part arranged pivotably thereon;an ankle joint;a pivotable foot part, which can be secured distally on the ankle joint;a shin part arranged between the ankle joint and the knee joint;wherein the upper part of the knee joint, or a thigh part that is secured thereon and can be fastened to the patient's body, is coupled to the foot part via a force transmission mechanism, which causes a plantar flexion of the foot part when the knee joint is flexed.2. The orthopedic device as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the force transmission mechanism is designed as a hydraulic system claim 1 , or as a mechanical coupling mechanism that transmits at least one of tensile force and compressive force.3. The orthopedic device as claimed in claim 2 , wherein the mechanical coupling mechanism is mounted on a first bearing point protruding dorsally or ventrally with respect to a knee axis and is mounted on a second bearing point ventrally or dorsally with respect to an ankle joint axis claim 2 , wherein the first and second bearing points lie on different sides of a connection line between the knee axis and the ankle joint axis.4. The orthopedic device as claimed in claim 2 , wherein the ...

Prosthetic System

A prosthetic device having a housing, an axle, at least three housing vanes, a flow medium and a valve. The axle is disposed within the housing and moveable independently of the housing. The axle has an axle reservoir and at least three axle vanes extending from the axle to contact the chamber wall. The three housing vanes extend from a chamber wall and contact the axle. A first opening and a second opening are formed in each axle vane. The flow medium is contained entirely within the chamber and the axle reservoir. The valve is disposed in the axle and operable in response to movement of the axle in a first direction relative to the housing to allow the flow medium to enter the axle reservoir from the chamber for storage under pressure. 1. An apparatus for controlling movement of a prosthetic device , the apparatus comprising:a housing comprising a first chamber;a storage chamber;a first member connected to the housing;an axle moveable independently of the housing;wherein the housing and axle are moveable relative to each other between a first position and a second position by placing an external force on the first member;a flow medium disposed within the first chamber and movable from the first chamber to the storage chamber for storage under pressure in response to movement of the housing in a first direction to the second position and to control movement of the flow medium from the storage chamber to first chamber when the external force is altered.2. The apparatus of wherein the housing further comprises a second chamber claim 1 , and wherein the flow medium is also disposed within the second chamber when the housing is in a first position.3. The apparatus of wherein the first chamber is defined by a housing vane extending from the housing to contact the axle.4. The apparatus of further comprising an axle vane extending from the axle to contact a housing wall.5. The apparatus of wherein the axle comprises an axle chamber and comprising a valve disposed in the ...

PUMP MECHANISM

A prosthetic system includes a prosthetic foot with a foot member defining a first end portion, a second end portion, and an intermediate portion defining a curvature and extending between the first and second end portions. A pump mechanism is coupled to the foot member. The pump mechanism includes a housing defining a cavity, and a membrane situated in the cavity. The pump mechanism is movable between an original configuration and an expanded configuration. A movable member includes a first portion coupled to the membrane and a second portion arranged to slidably engage the foot member. Relative movement between the first and second end portions moves the first portion of the movable member relative to the housing and slides the second portion along a length of the foot member to shift the pump mechanism between the original and expanded configurations. 1. A prosthetic system comprising:a prosthetic foot including a foot member having a flexible configuration and defining a first end portion, a second end portion, an intermediate portion defining a curvature and extending between the first and second end portions;a pump mechanism coupled to the foot member and positioned between the first and second end portions of the foot member, the pump mechanism including a housing defining a cavity, and a membrane situated in the cavity, the pump mechanism movable between an original configuration in which the volume of a fluid chamber defined between the membrane and a bottom of the cavity is zero or near-zero, and an expanded configuration in which the volume of the fluid chamber is increased; anda movable member including a first portion coupled to the membrane and secured to the first end portion of the prosthetic foot, and a second portion arranged to slidably engage the foot member, wherein relative movement between the first and second end portions of the foot member moves the first portion of the movable member relative to the housing and slides the second portion of ...

PROSTHETIC ANKLE AND METHOD OF CONTROLLING SAME BASED ON ADAPTATION TO SPEED

Prosthetic devices and methods of controlling the same are provided. A prosthetic ankle device includes a foot unit and lower limb member moveable relative to one another and defining an ankle angle therebetween. The prosthetic ankle device further includes a controller to operate the device using different ankle angles depending on, for example, a user's gait speed. Methods of controlling the prosthetic ankle device include operating the device at different ankle angles depending on gait speed. For example, the prosthetic ankle device can provide for relatively more dorsiflexion at relatively slower gait speeds and relatively more plantarflexion at relatively faster gait speeds. 119-. (canceled)20. A method of controlling a prosthetic ankle device comprising a foot unit and a lower limb member , the lower limb member configured to move relative to the foot unit , and the foot unit and the lower limb member defining an angle therebetween , the method comprising:determining that a user of the prosthetic ankle device is in a standing or stopped position and has shifted a majority of body weight to a sound leg; andcausing or allowing the prosthetic ankle device to dorsiflex or plantarflex to allow for a more natural stance.21. The method of claim 20 , wherein determining that the user is in a standing or stopped position and has shifted a majority of body weight to the sound leg comprises detecting or determining vertical lift of claim 20 , and/or a reduced load on claim 20 , the prosthetic ankle device with substantially no forward movement of the user for a predetermined period of time.22. The method of claim 21 , wherein the predetermined period of time is at least about ten seconds.23. The method of claim 20 , further comprising:determining a vertical lowering of, and/or an increased load on, the prosthetic ankle device; andexiting a state of weight-shifting dorsiflexion.24. The method of claim 23 , further comprising detecting acceleration of the prosthetic ankle ...

PUMP MECHANISM

A prosthetic system includes a prosthetic foot with a foot member defining a first end portion, a second end portion, and an intermediate portion defining a curvature and extending between the first and second end portions. A pump mechanism is coupled to the foot member. The pump mechanism includes a housing defining a cavity, and a membrane situated in the cavity. The pump mechanism is movable between an original configuration and an expanded configuration. A movable member includes a first portion coupled to the membrane and a second portion arranged to slidably engage the foot member. Relative movement between the first and second end portions moves the first portion of the movable member relative to the housing and slides the second portion along a length of the foot member to shift the pump mechanism between the original and expanded configurations.

ORTHOPEDIC DEVICE

An orthopedic device with a hydraulic damping device, a valve with a valve seat and a valve body that is subjected to a closing force. The closing force is applied via a valve spring that is pre-loaded towards the valve seat. A fluid connection between the hydraulic damping device and the valve seat is provided. The valve features an adjustment device for adjusting the preload of the valve spring. 1. An orthopedic device comprising:a hydraulic damping device;a valve having a valve seat and a valve body, the valve body being subjected to a closing force, the closing force being applied via a valve spring that is pre-loaded towards the valve seat;a fluid connection between the hydraulic damping device and the valve seat;wherein the valve includes an adjustment device for adjusting the pre-load of the valve spring.2. An orthopedic device according to claim 1 , wherein the adjustment device comprises a screw drive.3. The orthopedic device according to claim 2 , wherein the adjustment device comprises a valve spring holder that is coupled with the valve spring claim 2 , wherein the valve spring holder is mounted in a housing and a first thread is configured on the valve spring holder claim 2 , the first thread engaging with a second thread claim 2 , which is arranged in the housing.4. The orthopedic device according to claim 1 , wherein the pre-tension force on the valve body is infinitely adjustable.5. The orthopedic device according to claim 1 , wherein the adjustment device comprises adjustment markings.6. The orthopedic device according to claim 1 , wherein the adjustment device comprises a positive-locking element claim 1 , which can be activated via the adjustment device.7. The orthopedic device according to claim 1 , wherein the adjustment device comprises a motor drive and a control device that is coupled with the motor drive for controlling the motor drive.8. The orthopedic device according to claim 7 , further comprising an operating element that is coupled ...

PROSTHETIC WITH VOICE COIL VALVE

A prosthetic includes a pair of prosthetic members movably coupled together to allow movement of the pair of prosthetic members with respect to one another. A hydraulic actuator or damper including hydraulic fluid in a hydraulic chamber is coupled to one of the pair of prosthetic members. A hydraulic piston is movably disposed in the hydraulic chamber and coupled to another of the pair of prosthetic members. A hydraulic flow channel is fluidly coupled between opposite sides of the chamber to allow hydraulic fluid to move between the opposite sides of the chamber as the hydraulic piston moves therein. A voice coil valve is coupled to the hydraulic flow channel to vary resistance to flow of hydraulic fluid through the flow channel, and thus movement of the piston in the chamber, and thus influencing a rate of movement of the pair of prosthetic members with respect to one another. 1. A prosthetic device , comprising:a) a pair of prosthetic members movably coupled together to allow movement of the pair of prosthetic members with respect to one another;b) a hydraulic actuator or damper including hydraulic fluid in a hydraulic chamber coupled to one of the pair of prosthetic members, and a hydraulic piston movably disposed in the hydraulic chamber and coupled to another of the pair of prosthetic members;c) a hydraulic flow channel fluidly coupled between opposite sides of the chamber to allow hydraulic fluid to move between the opposite sides of the chamber as the hydraulic piston moves therein; andd) a voice coil valve coupled to the hydraulic flow channel to vary resistance to flow of hydraulic fluid through the flow channel, and thus movement of the piston in the chamber, and thus influencing a rate of movement of the pair of prosthetic members with respect to one another.2. A device in accordance with claim 1 , wherein the voice coil valve is reciprocally positionable with current polarity induced claim 1 , bi-directional movement claim 1 , by selectively changing a ...

PROSTHETIC JOINT

A prosthetic joint and a method of controlling dorsiflexion and plantarflexion of the hydraulic prosthetic ankle joint. The method includes generating ground reaction forces with a hydraulic prosthetic ankle, wherein the prosthetic hydraulic ankle comprises a first chamber and a second chamber, and the ankle is connected to a prosthetic foot; rotating the prosthetic foot in response to the ground reaction force; transferring fluid between the forward and rear chambers in response to rotation of the foot; providing a feature to occlude or partially occlude the fluid transfer between chambers; providing a non-electronic mechanism for controlling the flow responsive to both a position of the joint and a rate of change of position of the joint, and wherein the mechanism is arranged such that a dwell at a particular joint location or locations will occlude the flow path. 1. An artificial ankle joint , comprising:a foot connector;a lower leg connector, the lower leg connector and the foot connector being pivotable with respect to another about an axis of rotation; a first cylinder;', 'a first piston movably positioned inside the first cylinder;', 'a second cylinder;', 'a second piston movably positioned inside the second cylinder;', 'a fluid connection providing fluid communication between the first cylinder and the second cylinder;', 'a fluid movable from one of the first cylinder and the second cylinder into the other of the first cylinder and the second cylinder by pivoting the foot connector relative to the lower leg connector about the axis of rotation;, 'a fluid system, comprisingwherein the first cylinder and the second cylinder are positioned posterior of the axis of rotation.2. The artificial ankle joint according to claim 1 , wherein the fluid system further comprises a reservoir coupled to the first cylinder and to the second cylinder.3. The artificial ankle joint according to claim 1 , wherein at least one of the first cylinder and the second cylinder is a ...

PROSTHETIC ANKLE AND FOOT COMBINATION

A prosthetic ankle and foot combination has an ankle joint mechanism constructed to allow damped rotational movement of a foot component relative to a shin component. The mechanism provides a continuous hydraulically damped range of ankle motion during walking with dynamically variable damping resistances, and with independent variation of damping resistances in the plantar-flexion and dorsi-flexion directions. An electronic control system coupled to the ankle joint mechanism includes at least one sensor for generating signals indicative of a kinetic or kinematic parameter of locomotion, the mechanism and the control system being arranged such that the damping resistances effective over the range of motion of the ankle are adapted automatically in response to such signals. Single and dual piston hydraulic damping arrangements are disclosed, including arrangements allowing independent heel-height adjustment. 1. A prosthetic ankle and foot combination comprising a foot component and a hydraulic ankle joint mechanism , the ankle joint mechanism including a proximal shin component and being constructed to allow damped rotational movement of the foot component relative to the shin component about a medial-lateral joint flexion axis , wherein the ankle joint mechanism is arranged to provide (a) continuous hydraulically damped ankle flexion during walking relative to a preset reference angular position of the foot component with respect to the shin component and (b) adjustment of the reference angular position.2. The combination according to claim 1 , wherein the mechanism comprises a piston and cylinder assembly having a first piston element movable in a cylinder to drive hydraulic fluid through an orifice in response to rotation of the foot component relative to the shin component claim 1 , the mechanism further comprising a first valve defining the orifice and an electrical actuator for driving the valve to vary the area of the orifice thereby to provide dynamically ...

LINEAR ACTUATOR FOR ASYMMETRIC POWER GENERATION AND DISSIPATION

An asymmetric linear actuator is provided which integrates a hydraulic dissipater and an electric motor and power screw which generates small forces. The actuator is configured so that an electric motor drives a power screw which drives a rod through a cylinder to provide linear actuation. The cylinder is fluid-filled and incorporates a piston that separates the cylinder into a first and second fluid chamber which are filled with a first and second volume of working fluid. Movement of the piston and rod assembly results in fluid movement between the first and second volumes of working fluid and through the fluidic restriction. The fluidic restriction can be proportionally controllable via an electric motor which enables controllable power dissipation via control of the fluidic restriction motor and controllable power generation via control of the power screw motor. 1. An actuator for exerting a controllable force between a first and second attachment point , comprising:an actuator body;a piston assembly;a power screw assembly connecting the actuator body to the piston assembly;wherein the actuator body includes a cylinder bore configured for holding a working fluid, the cylinder bore having a first cylinder end and second cylinder end, wherein the piston assembly includes a piston that slides linearly within the cylinder bore and a piston rod that extends from the piston through the second cylinder end to a piston rod end, which is located outside the actuator body, wherein the actuator body includes a first attachment point affixed to the actuator body and a second attachment point affixed to the piston rod end;wherein the power screw assembly comprises a power screw connected to the actuator body to allow rotation and prevent translation, a power screw nut affixed to the piston assembly, and a first rotary motor disposed in the actuator body and configured to drive the power screw assembly;wherein the piston assembly divides the cylinder bore into a first volume ...

FLUID-DRIVEN BUBBLE ACTUATOR ARRAYS

This disclosure includes bubble actuator arrays and methods for making and using the same. Some bubble actuator arrays include a first flexible layer having a substantially flat first portion and a plurality of second portions that protrude away from the first portion to define chambers, a flexible second layer sealed to the first layer to define a plurality of cells in the chambers and between the layers, and where the array can be coupled to a fluid source such that the internal pressures of the cells can be varied. Some of the present methods include adjusting with a processor and fluid source the pressure in the cells of an array. Others of the present methods include placing sacrificial material into chambers of a molded first layer such that a plurality of cells is formed when a second layer is molded coincident to the first and the sacrificial material is removed. 152-. (canceled)53. An apparatus comprising:a flexible first layer comprising a substantially flat first portion and a plurality of second portions each protruding away from the first portion to define a chamber, a majority of which is surrounded by a boundary lying on the first portion;a flexible second layer that is substantially flat; andwhere the first layer is sealed in fixed relation to the second layer along the boundaries to define a plurality of cells between the first layer and the second layer in the chambers and such that the first layer has a surface overlying the cells; andwhere the apparatus is configured to be coupled to an interior of a helmet.54. The apparatus of claim 53 , where the apparatus is coupled to the interior of the helmet.55. The apparatus of claim 53 , where the apparatus is configured such that an internal pressure in at least one of the plurality of cells can vary independently of an internal pressure in another one of the plurality of cells.56. The apparatus of claim 55 , where the apparatus is configured such that an internal pressure in a first subset of the ...

SYSTEM, METHOD AND APPARATUS OF COIL AND ROD CONSTRUCTION COMPRISING MECHANISMS SUCH AS THE COIL JOINT, COIL BODY AND COIL JOINT SPINE

A system and method of construction based on rods and coils, that includes multiple parts comprising: distinct apparatuses, one or more coil joints, a coil body, and one or more coil spines; wherein any combination of the above parts can result in a variety of distinct structures; wherein the coil joint has 360 degree rotation; wherein the rotation can be limited to simulate other types of joints; wherein this coil joint can be combined with other joint styles to create hybrid styles; wherein there are 2 bias actions, one is an extending action and the other is a contracting action; wherein the action of the coil results in a more life-like motion than not using the coil; wherein the coil body has a flexible shape that can be locked into place; wherein the coil body has a high strength to weight ratio, which leads to high dimensional stability; wherein there is also hollow space for storage and transport of a package inside of the coil body; wherein the coil spine simulates the spines of living beings; wherein the coil spine is a flexible yet robust structure. 1. A system of construction based on rods and coils , that includes multiple parts comprising:distinct apparatuses, one or more coil joints, a coil body, and one or more coil spines;wherein any combination of the above parts can result in a variety of distinct structures.2. The system of claim 1 , further comprising:wherein the coil joint has 360 degree rotation;wherein the rotation can be limited to simulate other types of joints;wherein this coil joint can be combined with other joint styles to create hybrid styles;wherein there are 2 bias actions, one is an extending action and the other is a contracting action;wherein the action of the coil results in a more life-like motion than not using the coil.3. The system of claim 1 , further comprising:wherein the coil body has a flexible shape that can be locked into place;wherein the coil body has a high strength to weight ratio, which leads to high dimensional ...

INTELLIGENT PROSTHETIC SOCKET SYSTEM WITH ACTIVE USER FEEDBACK INTERFACE AND REAL TIME PROSTHESIS DIAGNOSTICS

An apparatus is provided for use with a prosthetic system. The apparatus includes a controller and a wireless smart device. The controller operates to gather data and derive prosthetic information from a plurality of sensors, and transmits the prosthetic information over a wireless radio link, where the controller and the plurality of sensors are disposed within the interior of a prosthetic socket. The wireless smart device is coupled to the controller via the wireless radio link, and receives the prosthetic information, and provides visual and audio representations of the prosthetic information to a user. 142-. (canceled)43. An apparatus for use with a prosthetic system , the apparatus comprising: wherein said controller and said plurality of sensors are disposed within a housing that is contained within an interior cavity of a prosthetic socket, said prosthetic socket adapted to receive a residual limb into said interior cavity, said residual limb having a cover, said prosthetic socket comprising a reservoir within said interior cavity inside, said housing disposed with said interior cavity, and', 'wherein said housing presents a first surface for contacting a second surface of said covered residual limb when inserted into said interior cavity;, 'a controller configured to gather data and derive prosthetic information from a plurality of sensors, and configured to transmit said prosthetic information using a wireless radio link,'}a pump, wherein the pump is coupled to said controller and wherein the pump is operable to maintain a prescribed negative air pressure within said prosthetic socket, and wherein the pump is disposed within the housing; anda mobile device coupled to said controller via said wireless radio link.44. The apparatus of claim 43 , wherein said plurality of sensors comprises:an accelerometer for sensing relative motion data corresponding to the prosthetic system, and for providing said relative motion data to said controller, wherein said ...

ELECTRONICALLY CONTROLLED PROSTHETIC SYSTEM

A prosthetic joint system for users comprising a housing having an interior cavity, a center axis in said interior cavity, and an attachment means for fixedly connecting said housing to said user; an inner cylinder disposed in said housing interior cavity wherein said inner cylinder rotates around said center axis of said housing; an appendage attached to said inner cylinder; a sensor system attached to said appendage; and a dampening system, having a power source, in communication with said sensor system, said inner cylinder, and said housing for controlling dampening of the rotation of said inner cylinder around said center axis of said housing. 1a frame;a computer in communication with said frame;a damping device in communication with said computer and said frame;a joint connected to said frame;a sensor for sensing plantarflexion moment information and dorsiflexion moment information in communication with said computer;wherein said joint provides at least one axis of rotation about said prosthetic ankle and wherein said damping device facilitates resistance to said at least one axis of rotation; andwherein said computer determines said resistance to said at least one axis of rotation with said plantarflexion moment information and said dorsiflexion moment information.. A prosthetic ankle comprising: This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/092,231, filed Apr. 6, 2016, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/221,457, filed Mar. 21, 2014, now abandoned, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/351,291, filed Jan. 17, 2012, now abandoned, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/979,434, filed Dec. 28, 2010, now abandoned, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/185,907, filed Aug. 5, 2008, now abandoned, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/953,390, filed Dec. 10, 2007, now abandoned, which is a ...

ARM PROSTHETIC DEVICE

A prosthetic arm apparatus including a plurality of segments that provide a user of the prosthetic arm apparatus with substantially the same movement capability and function as a human arm. The segments are connectable to one another and connectable to a prosthetic support apparatus that may be adorned by the user. Some segments may provide movement about more than one axis using a single actuator. The prosthetic arm apparatus may include a user interface incorporated therein and may include one or more communication systems for communicating with external devices. 1. A compound motion assembly comprising:an input member; andan output member moveably coupled to the input member;wherein actuation of the compound motion assembly generates movement of the output member relative to the input member along a compound motion path having motion about at least two axes.2. The compound motion assembly according to claim 1 , additionally comprising a drive arrangement for controlling movement of the output member relative to the input member.3. The compound motion assembly according to claim 2 , wherein the rate of motion about each axis varies as the drive arrangement is actuated at a constant rate.4. A compound motion assembly providing a two-axis compound motion through a pre-determined path claim 2 , the compound motion assembly comprising:an input member;an output member moveably coupled to the input member through at least a first joint having a first axis and a second joint having a second axis, the first and second joints being connected in series;a path member having a fixed path profile formed therein, the path member fixedly coupled to the input member; anda follower member coupled to the output member and engaging the fixed path profile of the path member;wherein actuation of the compound motion assembly generates pivotal movement of the output member relative to the input member about both the first axis and the second axis along the pre-determined path.5. The ...

Prosthetic joint with a mechanical response system to position and rate of change

A prosthetic joint and a method of controlling dorsiflexion and plantarflexion of the hydraulic prosthetic ankle joint. The method includes generating ground reaction forces with a hydraulic prosthetic ankle, wherein the prosthetic hydraulic ankle comprises a first chamber and a second chamber, and the ankle is connected to a prosthetic foot; rotating the prosthetic foot in response to the ground reaction force; transferring fluid between the forward and rear chambers in response to rotation of the foot; providing a feature to occlude or partially occlude the fluid transfer between chambers; providing a non-electronic mechanism for controlling the flow responsive to both a position of the joint and a rate of change of position of the joint, and wherein the mechanism is arranged such that a dwell at a particular joint location or locations will occlude the flow path.

Semi-active robotic joint

A robotic joint comprises a first link, a middle link, a torque generator, a second link, and a locking mechanism. Different ends of the middle link are rotatably coupled to the first link and the second link. The torque generator is coupled to the first link and the middle link and is configured to produce a torque between these links. The locking mechanism is switchable between a locking state and an unlocking state. In the unlocking state, the locking mechanism allows free rotation of the second link relative to the middle link in the first and second rotation directions. In the locking state, the locking mechanism is configured to impede rotation of the second link relative to the middle link in the first rotation direction and to allow rotation of the second link relative to the middle link in the second rotation direction opposite of the first rotation direction.

CONVECTION LINER FOR USE IN REGULATED ENVIRONMENTS FOR ARTIFICIAL LIMBS AND ASSOCIATED METHODS

The conformable convection liner is for use with a prosthetic system and configured to be donned over a residual limb of an amputee. The conformable convection liner includes a tubular body formed from an elastomeric limb-conforming material and including an outer surface and inner surface extending between a proximal end and a distal end thereof. A seal area is defined at the proximal end of the tubular body on the inner surface thereof. An outlet port is positioned at the distal end of the tubular body between the inner and outer surfaces thereof. An inner regulated environment is defined between the inner surface of the tubular body and the residual limb, the inner regulated environment extending between the proximal end of the tubular body with the seal area and the distal end of the tubular body with the outlet port. One or more internal convection guides are formed in the elastomeric limb-conforming material on the internal surface of the tubular body below the seal area and configured to promote the flow of fluid within the inner regulated environment towards the outlet port at the distal end of the tubular body. 1. A conformable convection liner for use with a prosthetic system and configured to be donned over a residual limb of an amputee , the conformable convection liner comprising:a tubular body formed from an elastomeric limb-conforming material and including an outer surface and inner surface extending between a proximal end and a distal end thereofa seal area being defined at the proximal end of the tubular body on the inner surface thereofan outlet port positioned at the distal end of the tubular body between the inner and outer surfaces thereof;an inner regulated environment being defined between the inner surface of the tubular body and the residual limb, the inner regulated environment extending between the proximal end of the tubular body with the seal area and the distal end of the tubular body with the outlet port; andat least one internal ...

Lower limb prosthesis

A lower limb prosthesis comprises an attachment section ( 10 ), a shin section ( 12 ), a foot section ( 14 ), a knee joint ( 16 ) pivotally connecting the attachment section ( 10 ) and the shin section ( 12 ), and an ankle joint ( 22 ) pivotally connecting the shin section ( 12 ) and the foot section ( 14 ). The knee joint includes a dynamically adjustable knee flexion control device ( 18 ) for damping knee flexion. The prosthesis further comprises a plurality of sensors ( 52, 53, 54, 85, 87 ) each arranged to generate sensor signals indicative of at least one respective kinetic or kinematic parameter of locomotion or of walking environment, and an electronic control system ( 100 ) coupled to the sensors ( 52, 53, 54, 85, 87 ) and to the knee flexion control device ( 18 ) in order dynamically and automatically to modify the flexion control setting of the knee joint ( 16 ) in response to signals from the sensors. When the inclination sensor signals indicate descent of a downward incline, the damping resistance of the knee flexion control device ( 18 ) is set to a first level during a major part of the stance phase of the gait cycle and to a second, lower level during a major part of the swing phase of the gait cycle. During an interval including a latter part of the stance phase, the knee flexion control device ( 18 ) is adjusted so that the damping resistance to knee flexion is between the first and second levels.

PROSTHESIS AND ORTHOSIS

A prosthesis comprises a housing (); a piston () and piston rod () housed within a cylinder of the housing (); and a pump () mounted on and partially within the housing (). The housing () is a unitary piece and comprises a plurality of passages () connecting the cylinder to the part of the housing () where the pump () is mounted. 1. A prosthesis or orthosis housing , comprising:a cylinder configured to receive a piston of a piston and cylinder assembly;a pump section configured to receive part of a pump; anda plurality of passages connecting the cylinder to the pump section,wherein the prosthesis housing is a unitary piece.2. A prosthesis housing as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the prosthesis housing is an ankle prosthesis housing and further comprises a foot attachment section configured for attaching the housing to a foot component.3. A prosthesis or orthosis housing as claimed in claim 1 , further comprising one or more apertures configured to receive one or more respective valves for controlling fluid flow through one or more of the passages.4. A prosthesis or orthosis housing as claimed in claim 3 , wherein one or more of the valves is an adjustable orifice valve.5. A prosthesis or orthosis housing as claimed in claim 3 , wherein one or more of the valves is a check valve.6. A prosthesis or orthosis housing as claimed in claim 1 , further comprising an aperture configured to receive a switch to be fluidly connected to one of more of the passages such that the switch switches the prosthesis housing between first and second modes of operation.7. A prosthesis or orthosis housing as claimed in claim 6 , wherein the switch to be received in the aperture is a solenoid.8. A prosthesis or orthosis housing as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the pump section is configured to receive two gears of a gear pump and further comprises means for mounting the remainder of the pump on the housing.9. A prosthesis or orthosis housing as claimed in claim 1 , wherein a plurality of the ...

Pump system

A prosthetic system includes a prosthetic foot having an upper foot element with a concave-forward facing portion and foot portion extending forwardly therefrom. An intermediate foot element is disposed below the upper foot element and has a front portion coupled to the foot portion of the upper foot element. A lower foot element is disposed below the intermediate foot element. A pump system is coupled to the prosthetic foot and comprises a pump mechanism including a housing defining a cavity, and a membrane situated in the cavity. The pump mechanism is movable between an original configuration and an expanded configuration. An arm member is connected to the pump mechanism and operatively coupled to the intermediate foot element. The arm member is arranged to move the pump mechanism toward at least the expanded configuration upon movement of the intermediate foot element relative to the upper foot element.

LINEAR FORCE-MEASURING DEVICE AND HYDRAULIC ACTUATOR

A linear force-measuring device for a hydraulic actuator of an orthopedic device. The force-measuring device includes a base, a bearing receptacle and at least one sensor for detecting changes in length between the base and the bearing receptacle, wherein the bearing receptacle is connected to the base via two opposing connecting parts, and the at least one sensor is secured to one of the connecting parts. 1. A linear force measurement device for a hydraulic actuator of an orthopedic device , comprising:a base;a bearing receptacle;at least one sensor for detecting changes in length between the base and the bearing receptacle;two mutually opposite webs connecting the bearing receptacle to the base;wherein the at least one sensor is fastened to one of the webs.2. The linear force measurement device as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the webs are designed as walls.3. The linear force measurement device as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the webs have a trapezoidal shape and taper in a direction of the bearing receptacle.4. The linear force measurement device as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the webs have a uniform wall thickness.5. The linear force measurement device as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the webs extend in a force action direction of a linear force from the base to the bearing receptacle.6. The linear force measurement device as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the base is designed as a round disk.7. The linear force measurement device as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the bearing receptacle is sleeve-shaped with a round recess.8. The linear force measurement device as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the base claim 1 , the webs and the bearing receptacle are formed in one piece.9. The linear force measurement device as claimed in claim 1 , further comprising a stiffening element is arranged between the webs.10. The linear force measurement device as claimed in claim 9 , wherein the stiffening element is designed as a wall.11. The linear force measurement device as claimed ...