New Device Enhances Grip for Upper Extremity, Body-Powered Prosthesis Users
For the first time in many years, body-powered prostheses wearers have a new option for increasing the functionality of their upper extremity devices. The Sure-Lok™ system is the world's first infinitely adjustable cable lock and retainer system for body-powered prostheses that allows people with upper extremity prostheses to grip objects with varying degrees of force and manually lock the device into place. The product made its debut today at the American Academy of Orthotists and Prosthetists (AAOP) Annual Meeting and Scientific Symposium, in Orlando, Florida.
Orlando, FL (PRWEB) February 28, 2008 -- For the first time in many years, body-powered prostheses wearers have a new option for increasing the functionality of their upper extremity devices. The Sure-Lok™ system is the world's first infinitely adjustable cable lock and retainer system for body-powered prostheses that allows people with upper extremity prostheses to grip objects with varying degrees of force and manually lock the device into place. The product made its debut today at the American Academy of Orthotists and Prosthetists (AAOP) Annual Meeting and Scientific Symposium, in Orlando, Florida.
"The big advantage of the Sure-Lok system is the convenience it offers. Not as much energy or effort is required to grab hold of things and you can lift objects ranging from a suitcase to a cocktail glass with ease," said Bob Radocy, an upper limb amputee and founder of TRS, a Boulder, CO-based company that specializes in upper extremity prostheses for active individuals. "The Sure-Lok system adds a new dimension of functionality and expands the capabilities of any body-powered prosthetic device." Radocy will wear and demonstrate the device in booth 216 at the AAOP Show.
The Sure-Lok technology is revolutionary because it easily mounts on any voluntary opening (VO) or voluntary closing (VC) prosthesis, enabling VO users to lock the cable tension to avoid damaging objects due to excessive force and allowing VC users to retain a firm grasp on objects without maintaining cable and muscle tension. With the Sure-Lok system engaged, users can obtain greater pinch forces than with VO setups, even while relaxed. The Sure-Lok system is an in-line system that fits with all other hardware in a mechanically operated cable system. It can easily and quickly be engaged and disengaged as needed.
The product is the result of a joint collaboration between Littleton, CO-based ADA Technologies; TRS; and Thousand Oaks, CA-based biodesigns all of which were involved in concept development. ADA Technologies' PhysioNetics division was responsible for the research and development and holds a patent for the technology, TRS manufactures and distributes the product, and biodesigns is involved in the field testing, marketing and clinical support for the Sure-Lok system.
"Our initial research indicated upper-extremity, body-powered prosthesis users were often frustrated by the limited grip functionality of existing VO and VC prostheses," said Brad Veatch, ADA Technologies senior research engineer and principal investigator. "We saw that as a challenge and set out to create a simple, inexpensive device to solve that problem. After nearly four years of development and refinement based on user feedback, the Sure-Lok system is available to the people who need it."
According to biodesign CEO and Chief Prosthetist, Randall Alley, there is a need for this type of lock and control device particularly among voluntary closing prehensor users. "Voluntary closing prehensors have not garnered as much attention as voluntary opening devices mainly because of the effort required to maintain grip, but also due to a lack of awareness of the inherent benefits of a VC strategy," said Alley. "With the Sure-Lok system, not only will voluntary opening devices benefit greatly, but I expect voluntary closing devices will start getting their day in the sun as well."
The Sure-Lok system is available now for $300. For more information or to purchase the product, contact TRS Inc. at 800-279-1865.
About ADA Technologies, Inc.
ADA Technologies, Inc. is a research, development, and commercialization company that specializes in creating and converting innovative technologies to commercial successes. The firm is headquartered in Littleton, Colorado, with an office on the University of Wyoming campus in Laramie. ADA has received more than 130 research grants totaling more than $40 million. ADA has received numerous honors, including: 2006 Tibbetts Award, 2006 & 2007 Colorado Technology Fast 50, 2006 & 2007 Best Companies to Work For in Colorado and Colorado's Top Technology Company 2005.
About biodesigns, Inc.
Thousand Oaks, California-based biodesigns inc. is a technologically-driven high-performance prosthetic company specializing in upper extremity patient care, rehabilitation and product development. The company's proprietary approach utilizes state-of-the-art technology, including high tech laser scanners, innovative clinical techniques, and the most biomechanically advanced interface designs available. biodesigns works with all levels of upper extremity patients, but especially caters to highly active individuals who demand more from their prostheses.
About TRS, Inc.
TRS is a leading innovator of body-powered prosthetic devices specializing in high quality technology for persons missing a hand(s). The company was formed in 1979, by upper limb amputee Bob Radocy, who was frustrated by the limited performance of commercially available prosthetics devices. He lost his left hand about four inches below the elbow in an auto accident in 1971. Bob experimented with all types of prosthetic devices. In 1977, while in graduate school, he applied his engineering and biological sciences education and design experience to create a high performance, prehensor which allowed him to be competitive with two-handed peers in any activity he chose. Thus in 1980, the GRIP prehensile hand was first manufactured.
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