Mechanically Loaded Component

Simple SummaryContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

This invention relates to a structural component designed to endure mechanical force, such as parts of prostheses or orthoses, that is equipped with a mechanical-electrical sensor integrated into its force flow path. The sensor generates an electrical signal proportional to the amplitude and frequency of the mechanical loads, which is then accumulated by a connected evaluation device. This enables an easy and direct assessment of the total mechanical load experienced by the component over its lifetime, allowing prediction of remaining safe usage duration – especially useful in medical assistive devices.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Prosthetic limbs (e.g., artificial legs or arms) to monitor cumulative use and predict safe lifespan for single or multiple users.
• Orthopedic support devices (orthoses) to track load history and determine if they are still safe for rehabilitation purposes or reuse.
• Mobility aids like crutches or walkers subject to repeated loading by users.
• Structural health monitoring of load-bearing components in machines, vehicles, bridges, or buildings to indicate end-of-life or maintenance needs.
• Reusable rental or loaner medical devices, where knowledge of prior use is important for safety and regulatory compliance.

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Enables accurate, non-destructive assessment of a component’s load history and remaining service life.
• Improves safety by reducing the risk of catastrophic failure due to fatigue or overuse.
• Facilitates cost savings and sustainability by allowing safe reuse and extended life of expensive medical devices such as prostheses and orthoses.
• Reduces unnecessary disposal of devices, benefiting both users and healthcare providers.
• Requires no external power source if implemented with energy-harvesting sensors (e.g., piezoelectric), lowering maintenance and complexity.
• Simple, direct readout allows quick decision-making without complex or expensive equipment.

Technical Classifications (CPCs)

Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

The invention relates to a component that is designed to be loaded with a mechanical force flow (F), wherein a potential further service time for the component can be determined easily in that a mechanical-electrical transducer (6) is arranged in the force flow (F) as a load sensor (1), which outputs an electrical signal that corresponds to the amplitude of the force flow (F) and downstream of which an indicating device (8) is connected, which is designed to add up the electrical signals over the long term. As a result, this may enable the further use of in particular prostheses or orthoses.