Abstract:
A Rapid Fit Modular Prosthetic Device that can be inexpensively manufactured using modern technology and advanced polymer materials. The Rapid Fit Modular Prosthetic Device will be immediately fit on the residual limb and aligned for optimal gait without specialized tools or labs, alleviating the many steps involved with conventional labor-intensive and costly prosthesis construction. The Rapid Fit Modular Prosthetic Device also accommodates the changing in size and shape of the limb, eliminating the need for multiple prostheses and adjustments to an existing prosthesis during the lifetime of an amputee.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION 
     This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/083,403 entitled “Modular Prosthesis System,” filed on Apr. 8, 2011, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. 
    
    
     STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT 
     This invention was made with government support under NIH Grant 2R42HD069067-02 awarded by the National Institutes of Health. The government has certain rights in the invention. 
    
    
     FIELD OF INVENTION 
     The present invention relates to the field of prostheses, and more particularly to a modular prosthesis system which accommodates gait alignment and residual limb shape and volume. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1   a  illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a rapid fit modular prosthetic device for accommodating gait alignment and residual limb shape and volume for a below-the-knee residual limb. 
         FIG. 1   b  illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a rapid fit modular prosthetic device for accommodating gait alignment and residual limb shape and volume for an above-the-knee residual limb. 
         FIG. 1   c  illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a rapid fit modular prosthetic device for accommodating gait alignment and residual limb shape and volume for a residual limb which is an arm. 
         FIG. 2  illustrates an exemplary below-the-knee rapid fit modular prosthetic device for accommodating gait alignment and residual limb shape and volume. 
         FIG. 3  illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a buckle cable system and hinge for a rapid fit modular prosthetic device for accommodating gait alignment and residual limb shape and volume. 
         FIG. 4  illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a rigid socket assembly for a rapid fit modular prosthetic device for accommodating gait alignment and residual limb shape and volume. 
         FIGS. 5   a ,  5   b ,  5   c  illustrate the adjustability of an exemplary embodiment of a rear limb engaging member for a rapid fit modular prosthetic device for accommodating gait alignment and residual limb shape and volume. 
         FIG. 6   a  illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a base component assembly for a rapid fit modular prosthetic device for accommodating gait alignment and residual limb shape and volume. 
         FIG. 6   b  illustrates an exploded view of an exemplary embodiment of a base component assembly for a rapid fit modular prosthetic device for accommodating gait alignment and residual limb shape and volume. 
         FIG. 7   a  illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a rocker bolt assembly. 
         FIG. 7   b  illustrates an exploded view of an exemplary embodiment of a rocker bolt assembly. 
         FIG. 8   a  is an exemplary embodiment of a rapid fit modular prosthetic device for accommodating gait alignment and residual limb shape and volume for an above-the-knee residual limb. 
         FIG. 8   b  is an exploded view of the above-the-knee components of an exemplary rapid fit modular prosthetic device for accommodating gait alignment and residual limb shape and volume. 
         FIG. 9  illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a rapid fit modular prosthetic device for accommodating gait alignment and residual limb shape and volume adapted for use on arm-related residual limbs. 
     
    
    
     GLOSSARY 
     As used herein, the term “deformable” means any structure with accommodating features for comfort and/or to reduce impact. Deformable materials may include, but are not limited to, padding, foam, cushioning, gel, rubber and any other malleable, moldable or adjustable material or combinations of materials known in the art. 
     As used herein, the term “flexible” means able to bend repeatedly without damage or breaking. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Over 150,000 amputations occur in the United States annually. Amputations are rising in frequency due to diabetes and peripheral vascular disease. The transtibial level of amputation is the most frequently performed. 
     A transtibial amputation is an amputation of the lower limb below the knee. A transtibial prosthesis is an artificial limb that replaces the portion of the leg below the knee that is missing. The shape of the residual limb varies for each individual and generally requires a custom-filled prosthesis. A custom-fitted prosthesis that is comfortable is difficult to fabricate and costly. 
     The initial cost of a conventional prosthesis for a transtibial amputee typically ranges from $6000 to $14,000. In addition, there are additional costs to ensure the comfort and functionality of the device. The present state of prosthesis fabrication often requires three or more visits to the prosthetist and there are multiple steps in the fabrication process. First, a cast mold of the residual limb is made and a positive cast that resembles the residual limb is generated. Then, a prosthetic socket is built to custom-fit over the positive cast. Sometimes a check or temporary socket is made to insure a better fit. Typical fabrication techniques require specialized facilities. Generally, the final prosthesis requires post-fabrication adjustments as the residual limb tissue changes over time. 
     Recent advancements have been made in the field of prosthetic devices. However, devices such as computerized knee mechanisms and energy storing feet are costly and beyond the economic means of the majority of prosthetic users, particularly those in nations outside the United States. 
     Attempts have been made in the prior art to develop prosthesis systems that can be globally manufactured and distributed. These prosthesis systems, however, have several limitations. They are difficult to fabricate and require specialized facilities for initial manufacturing (e.g., casting) and subsequent adjustments. These systems all require expertise and consulting support that is not widely available. In particular, the socket (i.e., the portion of the prosthesis into which the residual limb fits), socket attachment, and alignment aspects of the device seem to be a common problematic area of development. 
     It is desirable to create a prosthetic device which eliminates the need for complex fabrication and specialized tools or labs, and which can be economically manufactured and distributed on a global basis. 
     Residual limbs may also grow or otherwise change shape, which may occur rapidly. In some instances, it may be necessary to replace a prosthetic device every six months to a year. It is desirable to create a prosthetic device which is adjustable to provide continued support and comfort as a residual limb changes. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     A rapid fit nodular prosthetic apparatus contains a rigid socket assembly, including a deformable liner, and fitted base component containing a first convex plate base and a concave base plate. A securing strap assembly, including a looped cable and a securing strap, secure a residual limb in the rigid socket assembly. The rigid socket assembly is connected to the first convex plate base, which is joined to the concave base plate by a plurality of rocker bolt assemblies. The rocker bolts allow adjustment of the shank and foot relative to the socket. Once the optimal alignment is achieved, the rocker bolts are tightened to firmly connect the upper and lower plates such that no movement occurs during gait. A hollow tubular portion of the fitted base component receives a prosthetic pipe, or shank, that is connected to a prosthetic foot. 
     A rapid fit modular prosthetic apparatus may be used on below-the-knee and above-the-knee residual limbs, as well as residual limbs which are arms. Additional securing components, such as waist straps or shoulder straps, may be used in above-the-knee and arm embodiments. 
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF INVENTION 
     For the purpose of promoting an understanding of the present invention, references are made in the text to exemplary embodiments of a rapid fit modular prosthetic device for accommodating gait alignment and residual limb shape and volume, only some of which are described herein. It should be understood that no limitations on the scope of the invention are intended by describing these exemplary embodiments. One of ordinary skill in the art will readily appreciate that alternate but functionally equivalent materials, component, and designs may be used. The inclusion of additional elements may be deemed readily apparent and obvious to one of ordinary skill in the art. Specific elements disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but rather as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one of ordinary skill in the art to employ the present invention. 
     It should be understood that the drawings are not necessarily to scale; instead, emphasis has been placed upon illustrating the principles of the invention. In addition, in the embodiments depicted herein, like reference numerals in the varios drawings refer to identical or near identical structural elements. 
     Moreover, the terms “substantially” or “approximately” as used herein may be applied to modify any quantitative representation that could permissibly vary without resulting in a change in the basic function to which it is related. 
       FIGS. 1   a ,  1   b  and  1   c  illustrate three different uses of a rapid fit modular prosthetic device for accommodating gait alignment and residual limb shape and volume. As illustrated in  FIG. 1   a , rapid fit modular prosthetic device for accommodating gait alignment and residual limb shape and volume  100  is adapted for use on a below-the-knee residual limb. As illustrated in  FIG. 1   b , rapid fit modular prosthetic device for accommodating gait alignment and residual limb shape and volume  200  may also be adapted for use with an above-the-knee residual limb.  FIG. 1   c  illustrates rapid fit modular prosthetic device for accommodating gait alignment and residual limb shape and volume  300  adapted for use with a residual limb which is an arm. 
     As illustrated in  FIGS. 1   a ,  1   b  and  1   c , the basic structure of rapid fit modular prosthetic device for accommodating gait alignment and residual limb shape and volume  100 ,  200 ,  300  is the same. Rapid fit modular prosthetic device for accommodating gait alignment and residual limb shape and volume  100  has prosthetic device  15  attached directly to rapid fit modular prosthetic device for accommodating gait alignment and residual limb shape and volume  100 . By comparison, rapid fit modular prosthetic device for accommodating gait alignment and residual limb shape and volume  200  has knee  99  after prosthetic device  15  and an additional securing strap to help stabilize rapid fit nodular prosthetic device for accommodating gait alignment and residual limb shape and volume  200 . The orientation of prosthetic limb  15  is also rotated at 90 degrees compared to rapid fit modular prosthetic device for accommodating gait alignment and residual limb shape and volume  100 . 
     When used for a below-the-knee residual limb, rapid fit modular prosthetic device for accommodating gait alignment and residual limb shape and volume  100  is oriented so that it opens from the back of a wearer (i.e., at the calf). Because of the way pressure is exerted on rapid fit modular prosthetic device for accommodating gait alignment and residual limb shape and volume  200  when used with an above-the-knee residual limb, and the movement caused by bending at the knee, rapid fit modular prosthetic device for accommodating gait alignment and residual limb shape and volume  200  must be oriented to open from the side. 
     Similarly, as illustrated in  FIG. 1   c , rapid fit modular prosthetic device for accommodating gait alignment and residual limb shape and volume  300  contains a different strap to secure rapid fit modular prosthetic device for accommodating gait alignment and residual limb shape and volume  300  to a residual limb which is an arm, and prosthetic device  15  is an arm instead of a foot or leg. 
       FIG. 2  illustrates an exemplary embodiment of below-the-knee rapid fit modular prosthetic device for accommodating gait alignment and residual limb shape and volume  100 . Below-the-knee rapid fit modular prosthetic device for accommodating gait alignment and residual limb shape and volume  100  contains rigid socket assembly  10 , which is comprised of non-pivotal front limb engaging panel  20 , pivotal rear limb engaging panel  30 , rigid outer support rib  72 , and deformable inner liner  78  with silicone sleeve  80 . In the exemplary embodiment shown, rigid socket assembly  10  creates a tubular recess which receives a residual limb. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 2 , pivotal rear limb engaging panel  30  overlaps non-pivotal front limb engaging panel  20  on the inside of non-pivotal front limb engaging panel  20 . Rigid outer support rib  72  has an inverted T-shape and supports pivotal rear limb engaging panel  30  in front limb engaging panel  20 . 
     In the exemplary embodiment shown, rigid outer support rib  72  is a separate physical component from rear limb engaging panel  30 . In other exemplary embodiments, rigid outer support rib  72  may be permanently or temporarily connected with rear limb engaging panel  30 . In still further exemplary embodiments, rigid outer support rib  72  may be singly manufactured with rear limb engaging panel  30 . 
     In the exemplary embodiment shown, pivotal rear limb engaging panel  30  is pivoted to exert an even pressure and hold a residual limb in the place against front limb engaging panel  20 . In a preferred exemplary embodiment, pivotal rear limb engaging panel  30  pivots at 10-40 degrees. Rear limb engaging member  30  is flexible and narrow as it is compressed in the contour of the more rigid and longer non-pivotal front limb engaging panel  20 . Rigid outer support rib  72  provides structure to rear limb engaging member  30 . 
     As illustrated in the exemplary embodiment shown in  FIG. 2 , deformable inner liner  78  with silicone liner  80  is designed to fit within rigid socket assembly  10  to accommodate the individual and unique features of a residual limb to provide comfort and reduce impact. Silicone liner  80  cushions and conforms to the shape of a residual limb, while deformable inner liner  78  provides additional cushioning and support. In the exemplary embodiment shown, deformable inner liner  78  is made of cushioning material, such as deformable padding, foam, cushioning, gel, rubber or combinations of these materials. In further exemplary embodiments, deformable liner  78  may be malleable, moldable or adjustable to a specifically fit a residual limb. 
     While in the exemplary embodiment shown, silicone liner  80  is made of silicone, in further exemplary embodiments, silicone liner  80  may be made of any similar material known in the art. In still further exemplary embodiments, the material properties between silicone liner  80  and deformable inner liner  78  may be designed to provide added friction for augmented suspension when modular prosthetic device  100  is firmly buckled around a residual limb. 
     In yet further exemplary embodiments, silicone liner  80  and deformable inner liner  78  may include a directional resistance material which allows silicone liner  80  to easily engage deformable inner liner  78  but prevents silicone liner  80  from being easily removed or shifted once in deformable inner liner  78 . For example, the inner surface of deformable inner liner  78  and outer surface of silicone liner  80  may contain an area, areas, or coating of a directionally resistive material. In still further exemplary embodiments, the outer surface of silicone liner  80  and the inner surface of deformable inner liner  78  may include engaging structures which allow silicone liner  80  to be easily inserted in deformable inner liner  78 , but require additional force to remove from deformable inner liner  78 . 
     In some exemplary embodiments, rigid socket assembly  10  and first convex plate base  35  with integrally molded longitudinal curved plate  34  may be modified to accommodate silicone liner  80  with a serrated pin suspension system, such as with the ALPS pin and gel liner suspension system known in the art. 
     Deformable liner  78  is shown having rear tongue  76  and a contoured front, which are adapted to comfortably receive a residual limb. 
     In the exemplary embodiment shown, silicone liner  80  also contains suspension straps  81   a ,  81   b  (not shown) with suspension strap buckles  82   a ,  82   b  (not shown). Suspension strap  81   b  with suspension strap buckle  82   b  is symmetrically arranged on the opposite side of silicone liner  80 . In some exemplary embodiments, suspension straps  81   a ,  81   b  with suspension strap buckle  82   a ,  82   b  may be omitted, or additional or different securing components may be used. 
     Suspension strap buckles  82   a ,  82   b  engage corresponding suspension strap buckles  83   a ,  83   b  (not shown) on non-pivotal front limb engaging panel  20  to secure silicone sleeve  80  and deformable inner liner  78  to rigid socket assembly  10 . In further exemplary embodiments, silicone sleeve  80  may be temporarily or permanently connected to rigid socket assembly  10  through any means known in the art, including clasps, clips, buckles, straps, adhesives, friction-fit components, contours, snaps, or combinations of these or other structures. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 2 , non-pivotal front limb engaging panel  20  and pivotal rear limb engaging panel  30  are secured together around a residual limb by an intricate strap/buckle assembly comprised of buckle  22 , looped cable  39 , hook-shaped cable protuberances  31   a ,  31   b ,  31   c  and securing strap  74 . 
     Securing strap  74  completely encircles front limb engaging panel  20  and pivotal rear limb engaging panel  30  and secures to rigid socket assembly  10  through securing strap apertures  75   a ,  75   b ,  75   c  (not shown). In the exemplary embodiment shown, securing strap  74  is made of a non-elastic material and serves as a safety strap. In further exemplary embodiments, securing strap  74  may be any material with a buckle or other structure which allows the tension on securing strap  74  to be adjusted. For example, the tension on securing strap  74  may be adjusted using buckles, clasps, clips, snaps or any other structure or combination structures known in the art. 
     In the exemplary embodiment shown, securing strap aperture  75   b  creates a hollow opening perpendicular to the longitudinal portion of rigid outer support rib  72 . Securing strap  74  is therefore able to pass completely through the longitudinal portion of rigid outer support rib  72 . Securing strap aperture  75   c  (not shown) is symmetrically positioned on the opposite side of front limb engaging panel  20 . 
     Similarly, looped cable  39  is connected on one end to buckle  22  and hook-shaped cable protuberance  31   c  on the other to partially encircle front limb engaging panel  20  and pivotal rear limb engaging panel  30 . Looped cable  39  proceeds from buckle  22  through apertures  33   c  (not shown),  33   b ,  33   a , and is then looped around one of hook-shaped cable protuberances  31   a ,  31   b ,  31   c , depending on the size of a residual limb. As illustrated in  FIG. 2 , cable aperture  33   b  creates a hollow opening perpendicular to the longitudinal portion of rigid outer support rib  72 . Looped cable  39  is therefore able to pass completely through the longitudinal portion of rigid outer support rib  72 . Cable aperture  33   c  (not shown) is symmetrically positioned on the opposite side of front limb engaging panel  20 . 
     In the exemplary embodiment shown, looped cable  39  is made of metal wire with a protective coating, such as rubber or any other moisture- and/or rust-resistant coating known in the art. Looped cable  39  goes through apertures  33   a ,  33   b ,  33   c  (not shown) to minimize the pressure and wear exerted on the ends of non-pivotal front limb engaging panel  20 . 
     Once looped cable  39  is secured around one of hook-shaped cable protuberances  31   a ,  31   b ,  31   c , buckle  22  is dosed against front limb engaging panel  20  to pull looped cable  39  tight around rigid socket assembly  10 . In the exemplary embodiment shown, buckle  22  is a buckle similar to the type traditionally used on ski boots. In further exemplary embodiments, buckle  22  may be any commercially available plastic buckle or assembly which allows leverage and tightening of looped cable  39 . In still further exemplary embodiments, buckle  22  may be several buckles or securing components. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 2 , non-pivotal front limb engaging panel  20  also contains base plate bolts  84   a ,  84   b  (not shown) and hinge bolt apertures  77   a ,  77   b ,  77   c , with symmetrically arranged hinge bolt apertures  77   d ,  77   e ,  77   f  (not shown) on the opposite side of front limb engaging panel  20 . Hinge bolt apertures  77   a ,  77   b ,  77   c , and  77   d  (not shown),  77   e  (not shown),  77   f  (not shown) adjustably secure rigid outer support rib  72  and pivotal rear limb engaging panel  30  to non-pivotal front limb engaging panel  20 . 
     Base plate bolts  84   a ,  84   b  (not shown) help join non-pivotal front limb engaging panel  20 , and therefore a residual limb, to fitted base component  40  (not shown), containing first convex plate base  35  integrally molded longitudinal curved plate  34 . Base plate bolts  84   a ,  84   b  (not shown) project through base plate apertures  87   a ,  87   b  (not shown) in front limb engaging panel  20  and base plate apertures  85   a  (not shown),  85   b  (not shown) in fitted base component  40 . Base plate aperture sets (e.g.,  87   a / 87   b  and  85   a / 85   b ) are symmetrically positioned on opposite sides of their respective structural components. 
     Rocker connector bolts  25   a ,  25   b ,  25   c  (not shown) project through radial tubular portions  24   a ,  24   b ,  24   c  (not shown) of central hollow tubular portion  23  to secure integrally molded longitudinal curved plate  34  to concave plate base  36 . 
     Hollow tubular portion  23  contains prosthetic pipe connector  32 , which receives prosthetic limb  15 , which in the exemplary embodiment shown is a foot. In the exemplary embodiment shown, prosthetic pipe connector  32  is 30 mm in diameter. In further exemplary embodiments, prosthetic pipe connector  32  may have a diameter between 27 and 32 millimeters. Prosthetic limb  15  is secured in hollow tubular portion  23  by set screws  29   a ,  29   b  (not shown), which project through set screw apertures  26   a ,  26   b  (not shown), and tightening bolt  28  in base clamping protuberances  27   a ,  27   b  (not shown). 
     Also illustrated in  FIG. 2  are securing bolts  90   a ,  90   b . Securing bolts  90   a ,  90   b  project through securing apertures  91   a  (not shown),  91   b  (not shown) in front limb engaging panel  20  and securing apertures  92   a  (not shown),  92   b  (not shown) in fitted base component  40  (not shown). Securing strap  74  also contains securing aperture  95  (not shown), which allows securing bolt  90   a  to vertically lock securing strap  74  in place. 
     In further exemplary embodiments securing strap  74  may be vertically locked in place by additional bolts or other structures, including, but not limited to, clips, clasps, buttons, or combinations of these and other structures. 
       FIG. 3  is an exemplary embodiment of a buckle/cable system of rigid socket assembly  10 . The buckle/cable system secures non-pivotal front limb engaging panel  20 , pivotal rear limb engaging panel  30  and rigid outer support rib  72  around a residual limb. In the exemplary embodiment shown, non-pivotal front limb engaging panel  20  and pivotal rear limb engaging panel  30  are shown in phantom to better view the components of the buckle/cable system. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 3 , looped cable  39  is attached at one end to buckle  22 . Looped cable  39  proceeds around the outside of non-pivotal front limb engaging panel  20  and goes through cable aperture  33   c  (not shown) on the opposite side of front limb engaging panel  22 , and then passes through cable aperture  33   b  in rigid outer support rib  72 . Looped cable  39  continues around the rear of rigid socket assembly  10  and passes through cable aperture  33   a  in non-pivotal front limb engaging panel  20 . In the exemplary embodiment shown, looped cable  39  is looped around hook-shaped cable protuberance  31   c , but in further exemplary embodiments, may be looped around any one of hook-shaped cable protuberances  31   a ,  31   b ,  31   c , depending on the size of a residual limb. Buckle  22  tightens against no pivotal front limb engaging member  20  to tighten looped cable  39 . 
     In the exemplary embodiment shown, securing strap  74  is a non-elastic component completely encircling rigid socket assembly  10 . Securing strap  74  passes around the exterior of pivotal rear limb engaging panel  30  by passing through securing strap apertures  75   c  (not shown),  75   b ,  75   a . Cable apertures  33   a ,  33   b ,  33   c  (not shown) and securing strap apertures  75   a ,  75   b ,  75   c  (not shown) allow looped cable  39  and securing strap  74  to tighten around rigid socket assembly  10  without putting excess pressure and strain on the edges of non-pivotal front limb engaging panel  20 . 
     In further exemplary embodiments, rigid socket assembly  10  may contain more or fewer securing cables/straps, and securing cables or straps may have selective or continual adjustability around rigid socket assembly  10 . For example, additional hook-shaped cable protuberances  31  may be available for looped cable  39 . Additional tightening components, such as buckles, clasps, clips, snaps or any other structure or combination of structures, may be used to provide additional adjustment to looped cable  39  or securing strap  74 . 
     In still further exemplary embodiments, rigid outer support rib  72  may contain additional apertures for looped cable  39  or securing strap  74 . 
     In the exemplary embodiment shown, rigid outer support rib  72  has an inverted T-shape and is rigid to provide structural support for flexible rear limb engaging panel  30 . Hinge bolt  73  projects through hinge bolt aperture  77   a  on front limb engaging panel  20 , and corresponding hinge bolt apertures  17   a  and  18   a  on rear limb engaging panel  30  and rigid outer support rib  72 , respectively, to attach rigid outer support rib  72  and rear limb engaging panel  30  to non-pivotal front limb engaging panel  20 . 
     Hinge bolt  73  projects through one of hinge bolt apertures  77   a ,  77   b  (not shown),  77   c  (not shown), depending on the size of a residual limb. As illustrated in the exemplary embodiment shown in  FIG. 3 , the horizontal portion of T-shaped rigid outer support rib  72  extends against the interior of non-pivotal front limb engaging panel  20 . 
     Rigid socket assembly  10  also contains symmetrically arranged hinge bolt apertures  77   d  (not shown),  77   e  (not shown),  77   f  (not shown) on the opposite side of front limb engaging panel  20 , as well as symmetrically arranged hinge bolt apertures  17   b  (not shown),  18   b  (not shown) in rear limb engaging panel  30  and rigid outer support rib  72 , respectively. A second hinge bolt  73  (not shown) secures rear limb engaging panel  30  and rigid outer support rib  72  to one of hinge bolt apertures  77   d  (not shown),  77   e  (not shown),  77   f  (not shown). 
       FIG. 4  is an exploded view of rigid socket assembly  10 . Non-pivotal front limb engaging panel  20  is shown separated from pivotal rear limb engaging panel  30  and rigid outer support rib  72 . Cable apertures  33   a ,  33   b ,  33   c  and securing strap apertures  75   a ,  75   b ,  75   c  are shown without looped cable  39  (not shown) and securing strap  74  (not shown). 
     In the exemplary embodiment shown, rigid outer support rib  72  is a separate physical component from rear limb engaging panel  30 , which securely attaches to rear limb engaging panel  30  by attachment means, such as screws or bolts, at attachment apertures  97   a ,  97   b  on rigid outer support rib and  98   a ,  98   b  on rear limb engaging panel  30 . In other exemplary embodiments, rigid outer support rib  72  and rear limb engaging panel  30  may be attached by alternative structures, including, but not limited to, molding, adhesives, clips, claps, contours, or combinations of these and other attachment means. 
     Rigid outer support rib  72  also contains hinge bolt apertures  18   a ,  18   b , wh ch correspond to hinge bolt apertures  17   a ,  17   b  on rear limb engaging panel  30  and hinge bolt apertures  77   a ,  77   b ,  77   c ,  77   d ,  77   e ,  77   f  on front limb engaging panel  20 . Hinge bolts  73   a  (not shown),  73   b  (not shown) engage hinge bolt aperture sets  17   a / 18   a  and  17   b / 18   b , respectively, to adjustably and pivotally secure rigid outer support rib  72  and rear limb engaging panel  30  to front limb engaging panel  20 . Hinge bolts  73   a  (not shown),  73   b  (not shown) engage one of hinge bolt apertures  77   a ,  77   b ,  77   c  and  77   d ,  77   e ,  77   f , respectively. 
     In some exemplary embodiments, hinge bolts  73   a  (not shown),  73   b  (not shown) may engage symmetric hinge bolt apertures on front limb engaging panel  20 . For example, hinge bolt  73   a  (not shown) ray engage hinge bolt aperture  77   a  and hinge bolt  73   b  (not shown) may engage hinge bolt aperture  77   f . In further exemplary embodiments, hinge bolts  73   a  (not shown),  73   b  (not shown) may engage non-symmetric hinge bolt apertures, such as  77   a  and  77   e , respectively. 
     In some exemplary embodiments, hinge bolts  73   a  (not shown),  73   b  (not shown) may permanently secure rigid outer support rib  72 , rear limb engaging panel  30  and front limb engaging panel  20 . In other exemplary embodiments, hinge bolts  73   a  (not shown),  73   b  (not shown) may allow for selective adjustment of rigid outer support rib  72 , rear limb engaging panel  30  and front limb engaging panel  20 . 
     Base plate bolts  84   a  (not shown),  84   b  (not shown) engage base plate apertures  87   a ,  87   b , respectively, to securely fasten front limb engaging panel  20  to fitted base component  40 . 
     Also illustrated in  FIG. 4  are attachment points  12   a ,  12   b  for suspension strap buckles  83   a  (not shown),  83   b  (not shown). 
       FIGS. 5   a ,  5   b  and  5   c  illustrate the adjustability of rigid socket assembly  10  to accommodate residual limbs of various sizes. In  FIG. 5   a , rigid socket assembly  10  is at its smallest size. Pivotal rear limb engaging panel  30  is recessed within front limb engaging panel  20 , such that hinge bolt  73  projects through hinge bolt aperture  77   c .  FIG. 5   b  illustrates rigid socket assembly  10  with hinge bolt  73  projecting through hinge bolt aperture  77   b , and  FIG. 5   c  illustrates rigid socket assembly  10  with hinge bolt  73  projecting through hinge bolt aperture  77   a.    
     While  FIGS. 5   a ,  5   b  and  5   c  illustrate a single side of rigid socket assembly  10 , it should be understood that front limb engaging panel  20  contains symmetrical hinge bolt apertures which are similarly engaged by a hinge bolt. 
     While in the exemplary embodiment illustrated in  FIGS. 5   a ,  5   b  and  5   c , the adjustability of rigid socket assembly  10  is limited to three pre-determined sizes, in further exemplary embodiments, additional hinge bolt apertures  77  may be provided for additional adjustability. In still further exemplary embodiments, a structure other than a hinge bolt may be used to provide continuous adjustability. 
       FIGS. 6   a  and  6   b  show the construction of an exemplary fitted base component  40 .  FIG. 6   a  illustrates an assembled fitted base component  40 , with first convex plate  35  and rocker bolt assemblies  60  visible. As illustrated in  FIG. 6   a , convex plate  35  is an integral component with fitted base component  40  and is the top surface of fitted base component  40 . 
     Rocker bolt assemblies  60  engage radial tubular portions  24   a  (not shown),  24   b ,  24   c  (not shown). Base plate bolts  84   a  (not shown),  84   b  (not shown) project through base plate apertures  85   a ,  85   b  to secure non-pivotal front limb engaging panel  20  (not shown) to fitted base component  40 . When assembled, base plate apertures  85   a ,  85   b  align with base plate apertures  87   a  (not shown),  87   b  (not shown) of front limb engaging panel  20  (not shown). 
     Securing apertures  92   a ,  92   b  are adapted to receive securing bolts  90   a  (not shown),  90   b  (not shown), respectively, to secure fitted base component  40  to front limb engaging panel  20  (not shown). 
     In the exemplary embodiment shown, first convex plate  35  is constructed of a weight-bearing material. 
     Also illustrated in  FIG. 6   a  are base clamping protuberances  27   a ,  27   b  with tightening bolt  28 . Tightening bolt  28  pulls base clamping protuberances  27   a ,  27   b  closer together to tightly engage the pipe of a prosthetic device. In the exemplary embodiment shown, base clamping protuberances  27   a ,  27   b  are specifically designed to remain approximately 28-32 mm apart after tightening bolt  28  is tightened. 
       FIG. 6   b  is an exploded view of an exemplary fitted base component  40 . Rocker bolt assemblies  60  are made of hollow threaded socket  64  with u-shaped upper portion  67  adapted to receive contoured horizontal rod  69 , threaded hex bolt component  62  with convex collar washer  70  and concave funnel-shaped washer  71 , and pivot pin  68 . Pivot pin  68  is shown on hollow threaded socket  64  and secure contoured horizontal rod  69  to hollow threaded socket  64 . Rocker bolt assemblies  60  rest in rocker bolt apertures  52  of first convex plate  35  and are unable to fall through rocker bolt apertures  52  because of contoured horizontal rod  69 . 
     Hollow threaded socket  64  projects into radial tubular portions  24   a ,  24   b ,  24   c  of concave base plate  36 , allowing threaded hex bolt component  62  to tighten within hollow threaded socket  64 . Convex collar washer  70  and concave funnel-shaped washer  71  are secured between hollow threaded socket  64  and threaded hex bolt component  62 . 
     In the exemplary embodiment shown, there are three rocker bolt assemblies  60 , and radial tubular portions  24   a  (not shown),  24   b ,  24   c  (not shown), with corresponding rocker bolt apertures  52 , are symmetrically arranged around concave base plate  36  and first convex plate base  35 , respectively. In further exemplary embodiments, additional rocker bolt assemblies  60  may be used, and radial tubular portions  24  and rocker bolt apertures  52  may be unevenly distributed around the perimeter of concave base plate  36  and first convex plate base  35 . 
     Base plate apertures  85   a ,  85   b  and securing bolt apertures  92   a ,  92   b  are also shown in fitted base component  40 . Base plate bolts  84   a ,  84   b  (not shown) project through base plate apertures  85   a ,  85   b  and corresponding base plate apertures  87   a  (not shown),  87   b  (not shown) on non-pivotal front limb engaging panel  20  (not shown) to secure non-pivotal front limb engaging panel  20  (not shown) to fitted base component  40 . Similarly, securing bolts  90   a  (not shown),  90   b  (not shown) project through securing bolt apertures  91   a  (not shown),  91   b  (not shown) on non-pivotal front limb engaging panel  20  and securing bolt apertures  92   a ,  92   b  to provide additional support in securing fitted base component  40  to rigid socket assembly  10  (not shown). 
     Rocker bolt assemblies  60  secure first convex plate base  35  to concave plate base  36 . In the exemplary embodiment shown, concave plate base  36  is adapted to receive the lower surface of first convex plate base  35 . 
       FIGS. 7   a  and  7   b  illustrate an exemplary rocker bolt assembly  60  in more detail. As illustrated, rocker bolt assembly  60  is comprised of pivot pin  68 , contoured horizontal rod  69 , hollow threaded socket  64  with u-shaped upper portion  67 , concave funnel-shaped washer  71 , convex collar washer  70  and threaded hex bolt component  62 . 
     Pivot pin  68  pivotally secures contoured horizontal rod  69  to hollow threaded socket  64 . Contoured horizontal rod  69  is therefore allowed to pivot relative to hollow threaded socket  64 . In the exemplary embodiment shown, horizontal rod  69  can pivot up to 20 degrees relative to hollow threaded socket  64 . Threaded hex bolt component  62  screws into hollow threaded socket  64 , with concave funnel-shaped washer  71  and convex collar washer  70  secured between threaded hex bolt component  62  and hollow threaded socket  64 . The construction of rocker bolt assembly  60  allows for limited movement between first convex base plate  35  and concave base plate  36 . 
     In further exemplary embodiments, contoured horizontal rod  69  may be secured to hollow threaded socket  64  with a different securing structure. For example, contoured horizontal rod  69  may be friction fit or use a spring-pin mechanism or other structure which may pivotally secure horizontal rod  69  to hollow threaded socket  64 . Different constructions of rocker bolt assemblies  60  may allow for increased movement or pivoting. 
       FIG. 8   a  illustrates an exemplary embodiment of rapid fit modular prosthetic device for accommodating gait alignment and residual limb shape and volume adapted for an above-the-knee residual limb  200 . As illustrated, rapid fit modular prosthetic device for accommodating gait alignment and residual limb shape and volume for an above-the-knee residual limb  200  is very similar to rapid fit modular prosthetic device for accommodating gait alignment and residual limb shape and volume for a below-the-knee residual limb  100 . However, the components of rigid socket assembly  10  may be larger to accommodate the larger size of an above-the-knee residual limb, and prosthetic device  15  includes knee  99 . The entire rapid fit modular prosthetic device for accommodating gait alignment and residual limb shape and volume  200  is also rotated 90 degrees compared to the orientation for a below-the-knee residual limb. 
     Rapid fit modular prosthetic device for accommodating gait alignment and residual limb shape and volume  200  also includes waist strap  57  to help stabilize and secure rapid fit modular prosthetic device for accommodating gait alignment and residual limb shape and volume  200 . 
     In the exemplary embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 8   a , front limb engaging panel  20  and rigid outer support rib  72  are larger to accommodate a larger residual limb. Front limb engaging panel  20 , specifically, needs to be taller in order to properly secure an above-the-knee residual limb. In the exemplary embodiment shown, non-pivotal front limb engaging panel  20  is 6 cm higher. Because of the way pressure is exerted on rapid fit modular prosthetic device for accommodating gait alignment and residual limb shape and volume  200  by an above-the-knee residual limb, additional stabilizing is needed by front limb engaging panel  20 . In other exemplary embodiments, rigid outer support rib  72  may be larger or of a more flattened shape to reduce projection between the legs. 
     In some exemplary embodiments, cable apertures  33   a ,  33   b  and securing strap apertures  75   a ,  75   b  may be positioned differently on front limb engaging panel  20  and rigid outer support rib  72  to create additional stability in securing rapid fit modular prosthetic device for accommodating gait alignment and residual limb shape and volume  200  to a larger residual limb. 
     As illustrated, rapid fit modular prosthetic device for accommodating gait alignment and residual limb shape and volume  200  contains an intricate strap/buckle system identical to that of rapid fit modular prosthetic device for accommodating gait alignment and residual limb shape and volume  100 . However, in further exemplary embodiments, rapid fit modular prosthetic device for accommodating gait alignment and residual limb shape and volume  200  may contain additional looped cables  39 , securing straps  74 , buckles  22  or other securing members. 
     In the exemplary embodiment shown, looped cable  39  is looped around hook-shaped cable protuberance  31   b , which creates a larger volume inside the recess created by non-pivotal front limb engaging panel  20  and pivotal rear limb engaging panel  30 . In further exemplary embodiments, looped cable  39  may be secured using any of hook-shaped cable protuberances  31   a ,  31   b ,  31   c.    
       FIG. 8   b  illustrates additional differences between rapid fit modular prosthetic device for accommodating gait alignment and residual limb shape and volume for above-the-knee residual limbs  200  and rapid fit modular prosthetic device for accommodating gait alignment and residual limb shape and volume  100  for below-the-knee residual limbs. 
     As illustrated, deformable inner liner  78  with rear tongue  76  does not contain a silicone liner. In further exemplary embodiments, deformable inner liner  78  may contain or utilize a liner made of silicone or other similar materials. Support cup  55 , with support cup connectors  56 , is inserted in rigid socket assembly  10  under deformable liner  78  to provide height adjustments. 
     In below-the-knee embodiments, the distance from a user&#39;s residual limb to the bottom of the prosthetic device is adjusted by the length of the pipe on the prosthetic device. However, in above-the-knee embodiments, the distance from a user&#39;s residual limb to the prosthetic knee must also be adjusted. Support cup  55  may be placed at any height in the tubular recess created by rigid socket assembly  10  to support a user&#39;s residual limb at the necessary height. 
     Support cup connectors  56  engage the interior surface of non-pivotal front limb engaging member  20  to secure support cup  55 . In the exemplary embodiment shown, support cup connectors  56  are screws which are screwed to both front limb engaging member  20  and rear limb engaging member  30 . However, in further exemplary embodiments, support cup connectors  56  may be any securing structure or device known in the art, including, but not limited to, clips, clasps, braces, brackets, bolts, adhesives, friction-fit components, contours, and combinations of these and other structures. In still further exemplary embodiments, support cup  55  may be permanently, releasably or adjustably secured to rigid socket assembly  10 . 
     In the exemplary embodiment shown, base plate apertures  85   a ,  85   b  are visible on both non-pivotal front limb engaging panel  20  and fitted base component  40 . Base plate bolts  84   a ,  84   b  (not shown) project through base plate apertures  85   a ,  85   b  to secure non-pivotal front lamb engaging panel  20  to fitted base component  40 . 
       FIG. 9  illustrates rapid fit modular prosthetic device for accommodating gait alignment and residual limb shape and volume for use on a residual limb which is an arm  300 . As illustrated, rapid fit modular prosthetic device for accommodating gait alignment and residual limb shape and volume  300  contains basically identical structures as rapid fit modular prosthetic device for accommodating gait alignment and residual limb shape and volume for a below-the-knee residual limb  100  and rapid fit modular prosthetic device for accommodating gait alignment and residual limb shape and volume for an above-the-knee residual limb  200 . However, in the exemplary embodiment illustrated, rapid fit modular prosthetic device for accommodating gait alignment and residual limb shape and volume  300  includes shoulder strap  58  to secure rapid fit modular prosthetic device for accommodating gait alignment and residual limb shape and volume  300  to a residual limb which is an arm.