EchelonVAC
3 Optimal socket connection is critical to an amputee’s comfort, security and stability. By pairing Biomimetic Hydraulic Technology with an elevated vacuum system, the design of EchelonVAC works to create a secure and comfortable socket connection.
By harnessing natural ankle motion, EchelonVAC quietly creates elevated vacuum, helping to maintain an optimally fitting socket throughout the day.
Key Features
- Biomimetic Hydraulic Technology with integrated elevated vacuum
- Walking motion generates a natural vacuum
- No power required, quiet gentle operation
- Lightweight, compact design
- Low build height
- E-carbon springs for efficient energy return
- Split toe design for ground compliance on uneven terrain
- Sandal Toe Foot Shell
EchelonVAC Video
How does EchelonVAC work?
With every step, the wearer presses their weight into the prosthesis, initially expelling air through a one-way valve. Simultaneously the ankle plantarflexes, actively drawing air out of the socket. This air is held in the vacuum chamber and expelled through a secondary one way valve as the tibia progresses and the ankle dorsiflexes.
The result is greater residual limb volume control and an improved connection between the residual limb and the socket. For the user, this reduces relative movement, improving proprioception and control of the prosthesis for greater comfort and safety every day.
Innovative Design
The innovative design of EchelonVAC is lightweight and has a low build height as no external power source is required.
With no batteries or pump to worry about, EchelonVAC is quiet and easy to fit.
When used in conjunction with a Silcare Breathe liner, the vacuum is applied directly to the residual limb to further enhance the connection between the limb and the socket.
The Evidence
Active vacuum systems help to stabilise residual limb volume to improve socket stability and proprioception. Scientific studies have shown that elevated vacuum systems help to:
- Reduce volume fluctuation
- Reduce interface pressures
- Improve wound healing
- Reduce pistoning
- Improve gait symmetry, balance and reduce risk of falls
- Greater comfort and improved overall satisfaction
Real Life Stories
Charlie’s Story
Dennis’s Story
Scientifically Proven
Clinical Compendium
Blatchford Biomimetic Hydraulic Technology mimics the dynamic and adaptive qualities of muscle actuation to encourage more natural gait. Multiple independent scientific studies, comparing Blatchford hydraulic ankle-feet to non-hydraulic feet, have shown:
- Greater comfort, reduced socket pressures
- Improved safety, reduced risk of trips and falls
- Smoother, easier and more natural gait
- More evenly balanced inter-limb loading
- Greater satisfaction
How does EchelonVAC work?
With every step, the wearer presses their weight into the prosthesis, initially expelling air through a one-way valve. Simultaneously the ankle plantarflexes, actively drawing air out of the socket. This air is held in the vacuum chamber and expelled through a secondary one way valve as the tibia progresses and the ankle dorsiflexes.
The result is greater residual limb volume control and an improved connection between the residual limb and the socket. For the user, this reduces relative movement, improving proprioception and control of the prosthesis for greater comfort and safety every day.
Innovative Design
The innovative design of EchelonVAC is lightweight and has a low build height as no external power source is required.
With no batteries or pump to worry about, EchelonVAC is quiet and easy to fit.
When used in conjunction with a Silcare Breathe liner, the vacuum is applied directly to the residual limb to further enhance the connection between the limb and the socket.
The Evidence
Active vacuum systems help to stabilise residual limb volume to improve socket stability and proprioception. Scientific studies have shown that elevated vacuum systems help to:
- Reduce volume fluctuation
- Reduce interface pressures
- Improve wound healing
- Reduce pistoning
- Improve gait symmetry, balance and reduce risk of falls
- Greater comfort and improved overall satisfaction
Real Life Stories
Charlie’s Story
Dennis’s Story
Scientifically Proven
Clinical Compendium
Blatchford Biomimetic Hydraulic Technology mimics the dynamic and adaptive qualities of muscle actuation to encourage more natural gait. Multiple independent scientific studies, comparing Blatchford hydraulic ankle-feet to non-hydraulic feet, have shown:
- Greater comfort, reduced socket pressures
- Improved safety, reduced risk of trips and falls
- Smoother, easier and more natural gait
- More evenly balanced inter-limb loading
- Greater satisfaction
Clinical Evidence
Over a decade after challenging conventional wisdom, new scientific evidence continues to be published on the medical advantages of hydraulic ankles. Discover our White Paper ‘A Study of Hydraulic Ankles’.
Help & Support
EchelonVAC Technical Data
Max. User Weight:
125kg*
275lb*
Activity Level:
3
Size Range:
22-30cm
Component Weight:
700g†
1lb1oz†
Build Height:
121-131mm
4²³/₃₂" - 6⅛"
Maximum Vacuum:
17"Hg
*Maximum user weight 100 kg and always use one higher spring rate category than shown in Spring selection table
†Component weight shown is for a size 26cm without foot shell.
Selection Guide
Click the image for full size version.
Foot Shell Width Guide
Click on the table below to help choose the correct width when ordering the new Sandal Toe Foot Shell. For sizes 25, 26 and 27 you can now choose between Narrow (N) and Wide (W) fittings.
Accessories
| Alignment Wedge | 940093 |
| 4mm Adjuster Key | 940236 |
| Socket Connection Kit | 409663 |
| Check Valve Service Kit | 409863 |
Ordering
Example
| EVAC | 25 | L | N | 3 | S |
| Product Code | Size | Side | Width* | Spring set | Sandal Toe |
*Narrow (N) and Wide (W) available for sizes 25-27 only.
For dark tone add suffix D.
Example: foot size 25, left, narrow, spring rating 3, sandal toe