Abstract: A method for optically scanning a subject having a three-dimensional surface contour includes illuminating the subject with a matrix of discrete two-dimensional image objects such as a grid of dots. Respective object illumination images of the illuminated subject are captured from different known image perspectives. The respective object illumination images are processed to obtain a set of three-dimensional coordinates of at least a portion of the surface contour, including correlating positions of common discrete image objects in the respective illumination images, using data regarding the image perspectives. The machine vision system includes camera apparatus disposed at different camera perspectives relative to a subject, and one or more light projectors for projecting a grid-like structured light projection onto the subject. The machine vision system captures a sequence of images including a light object projector image and an ambient light reference image from each camera perspective.

Abstract: An orthotic, for providing proper support for a patient's foot within a shoe has provided on its top and bottom surfaces closely spaced substantially parallel grooves. The grooves on the top surface control slippage of the foot across the orthotic while the grooves on the bottom surface of the orthotic control slippage of the orthotic relative to the shoe's insole. The orthotic is shaped from a single monolithic workpiece by guiding a computer-controlled milling tool along substantially closely spaced parallel passes in a preselected pattern across the workpiece to thereby produce the orthotic's surface contours and surface texture in a single operation.

Abstract: The low profile functional orthotic constructed of polypropylene and formed with a heel, arch and forefoot area terminating short of the metatarsals. The heel portion is formed with an integral heel post and the forefoot portion is contoured on the underside to form a flat downwardly facing forefoot support surface projecting in a plane which is intersected by the upper plantar support surface at the forward extremity of the orthotic.