Dynamically adjustable orthotic device
US8749115B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 2, 2013 |
| Grant date | Jun 10, 2014 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 2, 2033 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH10N30/30
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An orthotic device comprises a flexible support structure comprising at least one surface for contacting a body part of a user, a plurality of pressure sensors configured for coupling to a microcontroller, and a plurality of displacement regions. Each region defines a portion of said flexible support structure, wherein each portion includes at least one sensor disposed on or below the at least one surface and at least one electrically deformable unit. Each unit comprises at least one electroactive material and is configured for coupling to the microcontroller and to a power source. The device is dynamically adjustable to change its shape and support properties, when an electrical voltage is applied to the electroactive material under the control of a microcontroller.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.