Dynamic Foot Alignment Platform for Custom Orthotic Angles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing orthotic devices fail to consider the dynamic nature of bipedal motion and are subject to human error in determining the correct alignment for foot, ankle, and knee, leading to inefficient energy use, instability, and potential overuse injuries.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for determining the optimal angular alignment of an individual's foot and leg using a platform that adjusts to various angles while measuring biometric data, including muscular recruitment and skeletal movement, to find the lowest intensity and duration of balancing efforts, thereby optimizing foot position relative to the ground.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional orthotic devices are used with fixed alignment angles, then manufacturing is simplified, but they fail to account for the dynamic nature of bipedal motion and individual variations, leading to improper foot alignment and increased muscular compensation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by transitioning from static, fixed-angle orthotic devices to a dynamic system that measures and adapts to the individual's actual foot alignment during motion. The system uses a goniometer or imaging device to capture real-time angular data of the foot relative to the ground, allowing the orthotic angle to be customized based on dynamic biomechanical parameters rather than predetermined fixed values.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service by allowing the individual's own biomechanical data to determine the optimal orthotic angle. Through automated measurement using the goniometer or imaging device, the system eliminates the need for subjective manual assessment by practitioners, objectively determining the alignment angle based on the individual's unique foot structure and motion patterns.
2Measurement precision
If manual assessment methods are used to determine foot alignment, then device complexity is reduced, but human error increases leading to incorrect orthotic angle determination
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical assessment methods with automated measurement systems. A goniometer or imaging device objectively measures the angular relationship between the foot and ground, substituting human judgment with precise instrumental measurement. This eliminates subjective errors and provides consistent, repeatable alignment data for determining the optimal orthotic angle.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback by using the measured angular data to determine and adjust the orthotic angle. The measurement device provides real-time information about the foot's alignment, which is then used to customize the orthotic device's angle, creating a closed-loop system that continuously optimizes alignment based on actual biomechanical parameters.
3Adaptability or versatility
If fixed orthotic angles are used for all individuals, then device complexity is minimized, but individual variations in foot structure and gait patterns are not accommodated, reducing effectiveness
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by customizing the orthotic angle to match each individual's specific foot structure and alignment characteristics. Rather than using a universal fixed angle, the system measures the unique angular relationship of each person's foot to the ground and manufactures the orthotic device with a tailored angle, ensuring optimal fit and function for that specific individual's biomechanics.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the key parameter of orthotic angle from a fixed standard value to a variable customized for each individual. By measuring the specific angular alignment of the foot in different positions and activities, the system determines the optimal angle parameter for each person, transforming the orthotic device from a one-size-fits-all product to a personalized medical device.
4Use of energy by moving object
If the foot is not properly aligned with the ground, then static stability is maintained, but dynamic motion efficiency decreases due to increased muscular compensation and energy expenditure
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies preliminary action by determining and correcting alignment issues before they lead to inefficiency or injury. Through initial measurement and customization of the orthotic angle, the system pre-adjusts the foot alignment to the optimal position, eliminating the need for continuous muscular compensation during motion and improving energy efficiency from the outset.
Data Source
AI summary
An assembly and a method is described. The assembly includes a platform, a motive source, a sensor, a controller and a computerized system. The computerized system has logic configured to cause a processor to send a signal to the controller to cause the motive source to move the platform through at least a portion of a range of inclination angles and to receive data indicating at least one of muscle activity, movement, and ground reaction force applied to the platform at a determined angle, and to cause the processor to analyze the data to determine an orthotic angle for a user's foot.