A structural model for molded thermoplastic ankle-foot orthoses

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics and Biomedical Engineering
• Orthotics and Prosthetics Design

Background:

• Ankle-foot orthoses (AFOs) are crucial assistive devices.
• Understanding the structural mechanics of AFOs is essential for design optimization.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate a simple theoretical model for predicting the structural response of posterior leaf spring AFOs.
• To assess the model's accuracy against experimental data and other analytical solutions.

Main Methods:

• Experimental testing of AFOs under unit loads.
• Development of a theoretical model using beam equations and small deflection theory.
• Comparison of model predictions with experimental results and existing analytical solutions.

Main Results:

• The theoretical model accurately predicted the bending and twisting of the AFO.
• Excellent agreement was observed between experimental and predicted values.
• The model proved computationally efficient.

Conclusions:

• A simple theoretical model can effectively predict the structural behavior of posterior leaf spring AFOs.
• This model is suitable for integration into computer-aided design (CAD) programs for AFO development.