ALIGNMENT:
GUIDE BUMPER

An issue that pin-lock users run into is misalignment of the pin into the locking mechanism, causing the mechanism to not engage, and creating an incomplete connection between the socket and the liner. Outside variables such as sight loss create additional problems with alignment, causing patients to choose other avenues of socket liner connection. We chose to assist in alignment of the pin to the lock as part of our design project this year. 

​

We used Fusion 360 to create a CAD model of our proposed design. This design was then printed using an HP Multi Jet printer and nylon packed powder. The resulting form was a flexible and lightweight guide bumper, not easily broken when flexed by hand. In order to incorporate the guide bumper into the socket, a dummy was used and heated PETG plastic was pulled over the dummy. This created a void in the plastic and allow for the buttons, which are sewn into the liner, to glide easily in using the guide bumper. While our design eases alignment problems for below- knee amputees, we are continuing to perfect the design, including changing the angle of the dummy used during the plastic pull to allow easier button interaction.