Integrated Foot Scanning Device for 3D Geometry and Pressure Mapping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing technologies for producing customized orthotic devices are limited in their ability to accurately capture three-dimensional foot models and pressure data, leading to suboptimal customization and comfort.
Innovation Solution
A scanning device with integrated pressure-sensing and imaging capabilities, utilizing a pressure panel and multiple cameras to generate a three-dimensional reconstruction of the foot, combined with geometric partial differential equations to refine the model, incorporating both visible and non-visible foot surfaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If traditional subtractive manufacturing or injection molding is used to produce orthotic devices, then manufacturing process is simpler, but customization precision and comfort are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines pressure-sensing functionality with imaging capabilities into a single integrated scanning device. The pressure panel and multiple cameras are merged into one system that simultaneously captures both pressure distribution data and visual foot geometry, enabling precise customization without requiring multiple separate devices or complex multi-step processes
Solution Approach 2:
The scanning device performs multiple functions: it captures pressure distribution through the pressure panel, captures visual foot geometry through multiple cameras, and processes this data to generate 3D foot models. This multi-functional approach replaces what would traditionally require separate pressure mapping systems and imaging systems, achieving high customization precision while managing system complexity
2Measurement precision
If pressure sensing or imaging alone is used to compute 3D foot models, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision and completeness are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges pressure-sensing data and imaging data into a unified 3D foot model reconstruction process. The pressure panel provides information about foot contours and pressure points, while the cameras provide visual geometry. By combining these complementary data sources, the system achieves superior measurement precision and completeness compared to using either modality alone
Solution Approach 2:
The processing device acts as an intermediary that receives and integrates data from both the pressure panel and cameras. It reconciles the two different data types (pressure measurements and visual images) into a coherent 3D foot model, managing the complexity of multi-source data integration through centralized processing
3Measurement precision
If multiple cameras are distributed around the support base, then foot geometry coverage is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The scanning system is segmented into multiple independent camera units distributed around the support base. Each camera captures a specific view of the foot, and together they provide complete geometry coverage. This segmentation allows for comprehensive measurement precision while maintaining ease of manufacture, as each camera module is a standard, off-the-shelf component that can be independently positioned and calibrated
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables precise customization of orthotic devices by accurately capturing foot geometry and pressure distribution, enhancing comfort and effectiveness.
Implementation Method 1
a pressure panel disposed on the upper surface of the support base... each of the plurality of pressure sensors, when the pressure panel is activated, are configured to generate signals representative of underfoot pressure
Implementation Method 2
a plurality of cameras distributed around an outer perimeter of the support base and substantially oriented toward a center of the pressure panel... capturing images of the individual's foot
Data Source
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AI summary
Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a scanning device comprising a support base, a pressure panel disposed on an upper surface of the support base, and a plurality of cameras distributed around an outer perimeter of the support base.