Plantar Adipose Tissue Characterization via Mechanical Probing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for characterizing plantar adipose tissue are not well-suited for customizing orthotic cushioned insoles in a retail environment, as they are either too complex or costly, and do not adequately account for individual variations in tissue position, shape, and contour.
Innovation Solution
A device that measures the viscoelasticity of plantar adipose tissue using pressure sensors and a probe with a linear displacement sensor, which applies a predetermined force to compress the tissue and measures vertical displacement, providing a characterization suitable for manufacturing customized orthotic insoles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If x-ray, ultrasound, or CT scanning technology is used to characterize plantar adipose tissue, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex medical imaging systems (x-ray, ultrasound, CT) with a simple mechanical probing system. A probe applies controlled vertical forces to the plantar surface while linear displacement sensors measure tissue compression, substituting sophisticated electromagnetic imaging with straightforward mechanical measurement that achieves sufficient precision for orthotic customization.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention employs inexpensive, simple components such as pressure-sensitive foam material, basic linear displacement sensors, and straightforward actuators instead of expensive, complex medical imaging equipment. This enables deployment in retail environments where cost-effectiveness is critical.
2Measurement precision
If x-ray, ultrasound, or CT scanning technology is used to characterize plantar adipose tissue, then measurement precision is improved, but cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs inexpensive, simple components such as pressure-sensitive foam material, basic linear displacement sensors, and straightforward actuators instead of expensive, complex medical imaging equipment. This enables deployment in retail environments where cost-effectiveness is critical.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex medical imaging systems (x-ray, ultrasound, CT) with a simple mechanical probing system. A probe applies controlled vertical forces to the plantar surface while linear displacement sensors measure tissue compression, substituting sophisticated electromagnetic imaging with straightforward mechanical measurement that achieves sufficient precision for orthotic customization.
3Loss of information
If a probe applies force to compress plantar adipose tissue and displacement is measured, then viscoelasticity characterization is achieved, but the device becomes more complex than simple pressure plates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the measurement process into distinct functional components: a probe for localized tissue compression, linear displacement sensors for measuring compression depth, actuators for applying controlled forces, and pressure sensors for monitoring overall platform pressure. This modular segmentation achieves comprehensive viscoelasticity characterization while keeping each component simple and manageable.
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 cost-effective and simple characterization of plantar adipose tissue, facilitating the production of customized orthotic cushioned insoles without the need for medical professionals or complex diagnostic equipment, suitable for use in a retail setting.
Implementation Method 1
The linear displacement sensor senses the linear displacement of the probe tip into the plantar adipose tissue
Implementation Method 2
The actuator is configured to apply a predetermined upward force to the probe upon contacting a localized area of the plantar adipose tissue. The plantar adipose tissue is thereby compressed
Implementation Method 3
The platform includes pressure sensors for measuring the pressure exerted on the platform by the plantar surface of the foot
Data Source
AI summary
In some examples, an apparatus comprises a platform having an upper surface to contact a plantar surface of a human foot positioned on the platform, a first pressure sensor to sense a pressure applied to the upper surface by a heel of the human foot, and a first probe extending through an opening in the platform and movable vertically upward through the opening to probe an adipose layer on a bottom of the heel. The apparatus also comprises a first actuator to displace the first probe upwardly against the adipose layer with a predetermined force, and a linear displacement sensor to sense a vertical displacement of the first probe.