Three-dimensional support socket digitizing system and method
US5781652A · kind A · utility
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 15, 1995 |
| Grant date | Jul 14, 1998 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 15, 2015 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10S623/901
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An improved three-dimensional, support socket digitizing system to be used primarily to manufacture a precisely configured clinical support device such as an orthotic brace and/or a prosthetic limb. The digitizing system includes at least one probe which is to be passed over a portion of the body to be supported, the probe including an exterior housing of known dimensions and being structured to have a position element disposed therein. The position element is structured to provide specific six-degree of freedom position and orientation information relative to a reference element which is also included in the digitizing system. As such, the specific position and orientation of the probe relative to the reference element is determined and any volume relative to the reference element through which any portion of the probe is passed is determined and stored by the digitizing system so as to determine an exact shape of a support area of the clinical support device which engages the portion of the body to be supported.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.