Hi List Members-
Below are responses to the ORIGINAL POST:
I wonder if anyone is working on these ideas:
* A wirelessly adjustable “real time” alignment unit for use
during prosthetic dynamic alignment.
* Wireless force sensors/software that can provide info./feedback
to optimize dynamic alignment.
* Computer controlled adjustable surface “diagnostic” socket that
allows the Prosthetist to make real time socket shape and volume modifications while the amputee is in the socket. Both the shape and the pressures would be monitored on a computer screen. It would interface with CAD CAM software.
Who knows for sure if any of these would be cost-effective or practical, but what other inventions would you like to see developed in our field?
I’ll post the responses. Put your name in parenthesis if you don’t want it included with your idea.
Randy McFarland, CPO Fullerton, CA
RESPONSES
* A wirelessly adjustable “real time” alignment unit for use
during prosthetic dynamic alignment.
Prof. Woody Flowers, PhD, now retired from MIT, was working on a hard wired system for a number of years.
* Computer controlled adjustable surface “diagnostic” socket that
allows the Prosthetist to make real time socket shape and volume modifications while the amputee is in the socket. Both the shape and the pressures would be monitored on a computer screen. It would interface with CAD CAM software.>> Sounds like a marriage between the Rinko system that DAW was selling years ago and the work that Fred Hampton, CP started at Northwestern in the early 1960s.
There is funding for these types of “new” ideas http://www.vard.org/meet/wramc03.htm
Al Pike, CP
I am a student in Eastern Michigan University’s new Orthotics and Prosthetics Program, working toward a dual Masters degree in Orthotics and Prosthetics (program under review).
While reading the OANDP-LISTSERV, I saw your post and was quite intrigued. It’s nice to see that someone out there is thinking about new methods of solving problems and helping patients. Kudos on being aware and interested.
Interestingly, a group (including myself) — who have spent years developing other “cutting edge” devices — is currently working on a device and system targeted at addressing two of the issues you mentioned:
> * A wirelessly adjustable “real time” alignment unit for use
> during prosthetic dynamic alignment.
> * Wireless force sensors/software that can provide
info./feedback
> to optimize dynamic alignment.
Of course, due to the proprietary nature of inventions I’m unable to disclose our methods or techniques, but based on the tremendous success we have had in the past with developing real-time feedback devices, the concept we’ve developed looks very promising. We’re excited about the prospect of contributing to the field, and after doing some preliminary research we’ll be able to divulge more information about the system.
It’s always good to get as much input as possible from dedicated and competent professionals in a specific field when developing a product, and if anyone has concerns regarding any aspects of alignment you feel should be addressed, I’d certainly welcome them.
I enjoy hearing about people who
are creating new products and solving problems; it’s very energizing and
mentally stimulating. Please refer to OandP Listserve in the subject line.
Frank J. Fedel, C.E.S.
Author, Educator, Inventor, Researcher
http://www.fedel.com/bio
