Valve system for prosthetics

US8343233B2 · kind B2 · utility

Inventors

• Matt Perkins · Twin Falls, US
• Dale Perkins · Twin Falls, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Jun 29, 2010
• Grant date: Jan 1, 2013
• Expiry date: Aug 21, 2030

Classification

• Technology area (CPC A): Human Necessities
• CPC primary: A61F2002/805
• WIPO field: Medical technology
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

A valve system for a prosthetic hard socket includes an elastomeric valve member that rests in a closed position that seals against a valve housing surface, and opens at a low “crack” or “pop” pressure, for example, when the pressure inside the distal region of the socket well is 1-3 psi above the air pressure outside the hard socket. The elastomeric valve member exhibits a very accurate and reproducible response at the low crack pressure, and, in addition, sound dampening and/or filtration pads further reduce sound and fouling of the preferred elastomeric valve member. The valve may be installed without leaks even on highly-curved thin-walled sockets, as the broad base of the valve is adhesively attached to the outside of the socket, and optionally a rearward protrusion extends into a hole in the socket without protruding into the socket well.