Development of immediate fitting socket system for artificial leg

Abstract

Immediate fitting socket (IFS) system was developed to shorten the long term for making of an artificial leg, by applying powder technology. The IFS is constructed of an outer shell and a particle containing bag, whose rigidity can be controlled by the applied negative air pressure. The shape modeling performance was evaluated by measuring the circumferences of the models from a plaster imitation and three amputees stump. The modeling error was less than 0.5% in plaster imitation, and less than 6% in amputees stump. The polymer sockets cast from the models were successfully utilized by the amputee.