The Use Of Prefabricated, Partially Die-stamped Leather Components For Artificial Limb Construction
Mr. William McIlmurray *
Since early 1958 the VA Prosthetics Center has been using prefabricated, partially die-stamped leather components for lower extremity prostheses. These components are procured in a sufficient number of sizes and shapes so that the manufacture of leather components for artificial legs within the Limb and Brace Section is decreased by 90 to 95%. (The L&B Section continues to manufacture components that are of a non-standard or special nature.) The use of prefabricated leather parts was suggested by Mr. H. Cavanaugh, C.O., Orthopedic Technician, Limb and Brace Section, VA Prosthetics Center.
Time and cost studies on the shop fabrication of these leather parts revealed that the retail contract costs of prefabricated die-stamped components would be slightly less than the prime costs (labor and material) of the conventional shop-produced parts. It was also determined that considerably less floor space would be required for storage and that raw material waste would be appreciably minimized if prefabricated parts were used.
Based on these reasons, the Limb and Brace Section proceeded to procure prefabricated die-stamped leather components for lower extremity prostheses from a commercial supplier* rather than fabricate them within VA Prosthetics Center. It was recommended to this supplier that the parts be made to the size, shape and contour of samples prepared by the VA Prosthetics Center and, of course, such parts were to be of the best quality material and to reflect first-class workmanship. The specifications listed below describe the sizes and materials used for each item. (B/K items Nos. 1 thru 6 are shown in Plate A. A/K items Nos. 7 thru 10 are shown in Plate B.)
B/K Components
Item No. 1
B/K Belt
(Sizes 30" thru 42", Left and Right, in 2" Increments)
- 2" Gray Dacron and Rayon Webbing
- 7 oz. Strap Leather
- Medium Horsehide
- 3/4" Bag Buckle. 1 ea.
- 3 Rapid Rivets
Item No. 2
B/K Fork Strap
- 7 oz. Strap Leather
- Medium Horsehide
- 1" Elastic Webbing, Cotton
- 3/4" Bag Buckle. 1 ea.
Item No. 3
B/K Corset
(6 sizes Left, 6 sizes Right)
- 8 oz. Strap Leather
- Medium Horsehide
Item No. 3A
B/K Corset, Eyelet Strip
- 8 oz. Strap Leather
- Medium Horsehide
- 7 Brass Eyelets (No. A-1190, Stimpson)
Item No. 4
Check Lug
- 8 oz. Strap Leather
- Medium Horsehide
- 3 Brass Eyelets (No. A-1190, Stimpson)
Item No. 5
B/K Joint Cover
(Left and Right)
- Medium Horsehide
Item No. 6
B/K Tongue
- 3 oz. Strap Leather
Fig. 1
A/K Components
Item No. 7
A/K Belt
(Sizes 30" thru 42", Left and Right, in 2" Increments)
- 5 oz. Strap Leather
- 7 oz. Strap Leather
- 8 oz. Strap Leather
- Medium Horsehide
- Litho-Cloth, all Wool, Long Nap, 27 oz. per yd.
- 1" Bag Buckle, 1 ea.
- 6 Rapid Rivets
- 1/8 x 14 Chrome Lace
- 4 Brass Eyelets (No. A-1190, Stimpson)
Item No. 8
A/K Rear Control Strap
- Latigo Strap
- 1 1/2" Elastic Webbing, Cotton
- 1 Rapid Rivet
Item No. 8A
A/K Front Control Strap
- 7 oz. Strap Leather
- 1 1/2" Elastic Webbing, Cotton
- 3/4" Bag Buckle, 1 ea.
- 1 Rapid Rivet
Item No. 9
A/K Joint Cover
- 3 oz. Strap Leather
- 2 Snap Buttons
Item No. 10
- Medium Horsehide
Fig. 2
When the first shipment of the parts was received, they were given a 100% inspection. With the exception of a few minor revisions, the parts were satisfactory. The materials, sewing, and workmanship were according to specifications, reflecting excellent workmanship. The die-stamped portions of these leather artificial leg components were particularly clean and uniform throughout. All components except items 3 and 3A (these two items require slight modification) can be used as they are received from the manufacturer.
Limb and Brace Section experience with the prefabricated artificial leg leather components has been so favorable that prefabrication of some leather Brace parts and of some Upper Extremity prosthetic leather components is being considered. The long-term possibilities of flexible plastics as substitutes for many leathers that are in use today are also under study.
* From: R and G Orthopedic Appliance Co., 2037 K St., N.W., Washington 6, D.C., low bidder on a VA Supply Contract.
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