Patent ID: 6702858
Filing Date: 2004-03-09
Classification: A61F

Abstract:
A socket device configured to attach a prosthetic to a stump of an amputee, the device comprising:a) an outer shell, configured to be coupled to the prosthetic, having an internal surface and a cavity configured to receive the stump of the amputee; and b) an internal liner, disposed in the cavity of the outer shell, configured to be disposed between the stump of the amputee and the internal surface of the cavity; c) the internal liner including a variable viscosity fluid to vary viscosity and stiffness during use, the variable viscosity fluid being capable of increasing viscosity during increased loading or rate of loading to transfer more load between the outer shell and the stump of the user during the increased loading or rate of loading, and being capable of decreasing viscosity during decreased loading or rate of loading to transfer less load between the outer shell and the stump of the user during the decreased loading or rate of loading.