Project Description

Harmony E-Pulse

Vacuum pump
Design for Otto Bock, HealthCare

The Harmony e-pulse is an electronically controlled vacuum pump for the creation of negative pressure in the residual limb. It compensates the volume fluctuation of the residual limb occurring in the course of the day, increases the adherence of the shaft (optimises the connection between the residual limb and prosthesis), reduces strain between the residual limb and the liner and enhances proprioception.

The Harmony e-pulse is applied in two varying forms: as a belt-linked strapped device on the shaft (with a strap mounting plate attached to the rear of the device with two screws and fixed on the residual limb) or an in-laminated element. Both application options are possible thanks to appropriate product components.

The design of the user interface and casing is determined by optic and haptic considerations. The haptic orientation is enabled by raised finger guide rails allowing the patient an almost intuitive device operation. The feedback on the status of the whole device is carried out by means of LED elements, optional tone signalisation and vibration feedback. The undetachable protective element covers the charging socket.

The patient enjoys the functional design which both enables and conveys a user friendly daily operation.