Foot contour digitizer
US5689446A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 3, 1995 |
| Grant date | Nov 18, 1997 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 3, 2015 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61B5/1074
- WIPO fieldTextile and paper machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
Apparatus for determining a contour of the underside of a person's foot includes an array of gauge pins supported by a first support structure and disposed in spaced relation for independent, guided movement along their longitudinal axes. An inflatable diaphragm elevates the gauge pins into extended positions until they contact the underside of the foot. A camera, forward of the gauge pin array, is pointed towards the gauge pin array. An initial reference image is captured of the gauge pins in their retracted position. The person's foot is then placed on the first support structure and the gauge pins are elevated (by means of the diaphragm). The gauge pins are locked in place; the foot is removed and an image of the conforming gauge pin array is acquired by the camera, using ambient light. The image is sent to a processor which analyzes the image and compares it to the reference image to determine the new location of the tops of the gauge pins. The apparatus also allows measurement of the top surface of the foot, including the heel. This is accomplished via an optical scanning system which makes use of a light bar projector in conjunction with a camera to first scan the top of the …
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.