An adaptive socket with auto-adjusting air bladders for interfacing transhumeral prosthesis: A pilot study

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Rehabilitation Robotics
• Prosthetics Design

Background:

• Socket comfort is crucial for wearable device acceptance, especially in upper limb prosthetics.
• Traditional static sockets cause discomfort due to high, uneven pressure on the residual limb.
• Lack of dynamic adjustment in current sockets limits long-term user acceptance and device efficacy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel adaptive transhumeral socket for enhanced user comfort and reliable suspension.
• To address the limitations of static sockets by introducing dynamic pressure adjustment.
• To improve the integration of prosthetic limbs with the residual limb for daily activities.

Main Methods:

• Implementation of four independent, adjustable air bladders within the socket.
• Real-time monitoring of limb posture, operating load, and contact pressure.
• Dynamic adjustment of clamping force based on sensor feedback and control algorithms.
• Utilizing self-developed force sensors for closed-loop pressure control.

Main Results:

• The adaptive socket effectively reduces concentrated pressure between the residual limb and the prosthesis.
• Bladders provide a cushioning effect and accommodate stump volume changes.
• Balanced load distribution is achieved on load-tolerant areas of the residual limb.
• Preliminary experiments confirmed reduced contact pressure and secure suspension.

Conclusions:

• The novel adaptive transhumeral socket significantly enhances comfort and suspension for prosthetic users.
• Dynamic pressure adjustment is key to accommodating stump variations and improving user acceptance.
• This technology offers a promising solution for more comfortable and effective upper limb prosthetics.