Computer design synthesis of a below knee-Syme prosthesis

Area of Science:

• Biomechanical Engineering
• Prosthetics and Orthotics
• Materials Science

Background:

• The BK Syme prosthesis is crucial for lower limb amputees.
• Optimizing socket design is essential for prosthesis safety, comfort, and performance.
• Current designs may not fully address stress distribution and material optimization.

Purpose of the Study:

• To perform a detailed design synthesis analysis of the BK Syme prosthesis socket.
• To determine optimal cutout orientation, size, shape, fillet, wall thickness, and fiber distribution for a lightweight, structurally safe prosthesis.
• To minimize stress and prevent buckling in the socket under adverse loading conditions.

Main Methods:

• Finite element stress analysis was employed to evaluate the socket shell.
• Simulations considered uniform and graded wall thickness, various cutout orientations, and corner fillet types.
• Buckling analysis was performed on critical socket panels.
• Fiber-reinforced laminated composite socket shells were analyzed for fiber orientation and density optimization.

Main Results:

• A lateral cutout with a streamline fillet is recommended for optimal socket design.
• Graded wall thickness distribution was determined to minimize stresses within material limits.
• Analysis confirmed that optimized panels near the cutout do not buckle under load.
• Optimum fiber orientations and densities for composite socket shells were identified.

Conclusions:

• The study provides a design synthesis for a minimally stressed, structurally safe, and lightweight BK Syme prosthesis socket.
• Optimized cutout geometry, wall thickness distribution, and fiber reinforcement enhance prosthesis performance and durability.
• The findings contribute to the development of advanced prosthetic socket designs.