Locking and damping mechanism for a prosthetic knee joint
US11497627B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 1, 2018 |
| Grant date | Nov 15, 2022 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 1, 2038 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61F2002/6854
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A high performance, low-cost passive prosthetic knee includes one or more modules to enable able-bodied gait by transfemoral amputees to improve metabolic efficiency and reduce stigma from conspicuous abnormal gaits. A stance stability module includes a latch with a virtual lock axis that automatically locks and unlocks. An early stance flexion module enables able-bodied gait during stance. Hydraulic fluid dampers ensure reliable swing phase control. A swing extension energy storage module stores and returns energy as the knee locks and unlocks, respectively. These modules may be used together, in any combination, or individually.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.