Implementation of a Socket for Hip Disarticulation based on Ergonomic Analysis

摘要

Currently, prosthetic development in Mexico is advancing imperceptibly. For this reason, some factors such as comfort and ergonomics are not taken into consideration when designing a device of this kind. The fact that hip disarticulation constitutes a minimum percentage of the prosthetic population means that no significant changes or advances are made to avoid adverse effects when a device of this type is adapted. One of the crucial aspects of this fitting is the socket, because if it is incorrectly designed, every movement between the residual limb and socket can complicate the control of the prosthesis, causing insecurity and pain when walking or in specific postures, creating injuries and infections as also collateral damage to other parts of the body. It is, therefore, necessary to design a socket that meets the specific requirements of the user, providing comfort and safety to improve the compatibility among prosthesis and the human body. The choice of suitable materials and the shape of the socket are vital points to increase comfort, which was evaluated through a perception survey, showing significant results. Finite element analysis was performed, which revealed the areas of deformation of the ergonomic socket, in order to reinforce the critical areas where it could suffer any rupture.