Kevlar® Dare Bigger™ Moments: Fenner Precision

Article | January 4, 2016
Article
Kevlar® Dare Bigger™ Moments: Fenner Precision
 
 
 
 
 
 

DuPont™ Kevlar® is used as reinforcement in many Fenner Precision polyurethane timing belts, but the one in the BiOM® T2 System is unique because it enables the only commercially available powered ankle-foot prosthetic device on the market today. 

The BiOM® T2 restores the biomechanics of ankle-foot function across all walking speeds. Through Bionic Propulsion technology, the BiOM ankle moves like an actual foot. The motor and belt construction imitates the tendons and muscles in the back of an ankle, giving a realistic, power-assisted step that helps propel the wearer forward as they walk. Users are able to move with a natural gait at their chosen speed using the same metabolic energy as a non-amputee. Individuals with conventional prostheses, without moving parts, compensate with their knee, hip and/or sound side which can cause pain, joint degeneration, and osteoarthritis.   

Why was DuPont™ Kevlar® selected? 
When personal bionics maker, BiOM, came to Fenner Precision, a global leader in the design and manufacture of custom engineered elastomeric solutions, the engineers knew they needed a strong and durable belt. One of the most important design considerations in any medical device is its strength, robustness and life, which help ensure the safety of its user. If the belt were to break while the prosthesis was being worn, the wearer could be injured. [Place image here]

“A wide belt with extra Kevlar® reinforcement is used in the BiOM ankle,” said Tony Carter, vice president Sales and Marketing, Fenner Precision. “We were able to Dare Bigger™ and engineer a stronger and safer product with the help of DuPont™ Kevlar®.”

The Dare Bigger™ Kevlar® brand platform represents inspiration for anyone who relies on the safety and performance of Kevlar®. The science behind this advanced material, coupled with its strength and durability, allows us to push boundaries, defy limits and challenge the conventional. From athletes to astronauts, law enforcement, military, first responders and industrial workers, Kevlar® enables anyone with an imagination and a job to do to Dare Bigger™.

Previously, users had to rely on rigid prostheses which gave an unnatural step and could lead to injury. Thanks to Kevlar®, Fenner Precision was able to supply a super-tough belt to BiOM so they could create a prosthetic ankle that moves like a real foot. Now, people without lower limbs can walk more safely and more easily.

Fenner Precision has been supplying BiOM with Kevlar® reinforced timing belts since 2012. So far, BiOM has supplied 1,000 people with the BiOM T2 System. Visit the BiOM site to view stories of individuals whose lives have been changed by this innovation:

http://www.biom.com/media-center/user-experiences/