A prosthetic elbow joint to help above-the-elbow amputees return to work, especially in occupations requiring heavy lifting, has been developed at NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center. The new design has several distinct advantages over the existing elbow design, including lower manufacturing cost, greater strength, a simpler design, and enhanced cosmetic appeal.

Potential Commercial Uses

This technology is suitable for use by prosthetists in their rehabilitative treatment of above-the-elbow amputees, particularly those engaged in farm work or lifting heavy loads.

Benefits

The prosthetic elbow joint provides the amputee with a means of returning to work to earn a living. This enhanced image of self sufficiency should have positive psychological benefits for the amputee. The reduced cost of the device should make it affordable for many who can not afford the present design. Increased use of the remainder of the lost limb could have therapeutic benefits. Ease of maintenance will ensure the device is more available to the amputee.

The Technology

The strength of the new prosthetic elbow design is a result of the locking method employed. A pin through a locking wheel is loaded in the double shear. The design has far fewer parts than existing designs and thus should be less expensive to manufacture. The new joint also is small and all metal parts are covered by a rubber sleeve which can be made to approximate the wearer's skin color, appearing more natural than the existing joint. The sleeve can be peeled back easily to gain access to the joint for maintenance and repairs, most of which may be performed with a simple screwdriver.

Options for Commercialization

Licensed manufacturing rights for the automatic prosthetic elbow joint design may be secured through NASA's Technology Transfer Program. A patent for the system has been issued to Marshall Space Flight Center. Engineering drawings of all parts and assemblies are available.

Patent Number

5,314,500

Contact for Licensing Information

Technology Transfer Office
Patent Licensing Information
Mail Code CD30
Marshall Space Flight Center, AL 35812

Key Words

Prosthetics
Brace
Amputee
Elbow joint
Rehabilitation