Invention and production of prosthetic parts

         The Princess mother requested that components be made from materials available in Thailand in order to  reduce cost of materials and import expenses. The Foundation has met this request with the co-operation of  Department of Engineering King Mongkuth Institute of Technology North Bangkok and Thai Plastic Industrial Association, enabling The Foundation to produce and supply prosthetic components free to workshops all over the country.
 

Prosthetic parts
          Every component is appropriate for use in humid tropical climates, and each cost 10-100 times  less  than
     the import.
    Socket is made from high density polyethylene.    
    Suction valve
   Knee hinge joint for a through knee prosthesis is made of stainless steel.
    Safety knee which prevents falls, is made of plastic. 
    Pylon is made of plastic. 
    Keel of SACH(dynamic) foot  is made of plastic mixed with fiber and convered with polyurethane.
    Syme  prosthetic foot uses polypropylene for the keel convered with polyurethane.
    Prosthetic feet which conserve energy make it possible to walk far without tiring using a prosthesis with an 
    actual cost of only 300 baht. Imported ones cost 15,000-20,000 baht. The keel of the foot can withstand the
    force of more than a million foot-strikes( according to testing done at the Sirinthorn National Medical 
    Rehabilitation Center).
    The farmer's prosthetic foot is appropriate for the majority of Thai people who are farmers.The Foundation's 
    version is strong, durable, grips the ground well, is inexpensive, acid and alkaline resistant, and can be used in  
    water, mud, animal pens and for climbing trees or mountain.
    Ready-made cosmatic cover of the leg  is made of polyurethane.
    Coupling  is made of recycled aluminium.
    Alignment unit  is made of plastic.         
    Prosthetic hip joint is made of aluminium.
Besides this The Foundation also makes  
            1. Forearm crutches  for the amputee who does not yet have a prosthesis.                                  
            2. A walker is used for  elderly people who have never used or received a prosthesis. 
            3. Canes for elderly people.