EN
7
Mechanical Lock Gripping Devices van Fillauer, distributeur Loth Fabenim B.V.
Mechanical Lock Gripping Devices Product Manual
Performance Characteristics
2
General:
Upper Extremity Terminal Devices-End Eectors:
Prosthetic devices are tools designed to provide or replicate certain aspects and
functions of the human hand including anatomical realism. All of these devices have
benets, limitations, ranges of function and liabilities that need to be understood
by the user-consumer. The basis for any reliable functional outcome in using these
devices is premised upon having a well-designed, reliably suspended, comfortable,
functional prosthetic limb, which optimizes the user’s remaining physical capabilities;
including range of limb motion and strength. The remaining limb itself, is a very
basic limiter of function and performance. Typically, the longer the limb the more
functional capacity over a prosthesis will be achieved, assuming the limb’s muscular
and skeletal framework are not compromised beyond simply hand absence. Loss of
muscle tissue, permanent nerve damage and phantom limb sensations-pain can all
impact the user’s ability to perform with a prosthesis. In general, a user with a limb
absence where less than 25% of the humerus remains, will not be a good candidate
for using upper extremity prosthetic technology successfully. Additionally, the
user’s cognitive acuity and capability are important in understanding the ranges of
function and the specic limits of function, while controlling such prosthetic tools, to
optimize their performance and avoid injury.
Finally, all prosthetic terminal devices, have inherent dangers of entanglement or
engagement where release can be compromised because of their physical exterior
design, unique unforgiving materials, and inanimate lack of “feel”. Wearing an upper
extremity prosthesis does involve risk! Training and therapy are always recommended
when using a prosthesis, especially when using new or unique technology or changing
prosthetic system operative controls.
2.2 Indications / Contraindications
Mechanical Lock Gripping Devices:
This class of terminal devices is unique in that they provide the ability to manually
lock and unlock around objects, tools and equipment. There is no analog in the
human hand for such function. Such function has inherent benets and risks that
the user must anticipate and understand. Certain activities like vehicle control
should never be used with devices in this class because instant or quick release of
an object or handlebar- steering wheel is not possible. Benets include very stable
control over objects without the liability of releasing or dropping, providing a safety
factor for activities where such function is the primary goal.
