Abstract: The invention relates to an artificial foot with a connecting part for a lower leg part, a forefoot part which is pivotably connected to the connecting part by means of an upper coupling element and a lower coupling element in such a way that an angular position of the connecting part controls an angular position of the forefoot part, one of the coupling elements extending into a heel area of the foot.

Abstract: The invention relates to an orthopedic foot device with a connection part for the lower leg, a swivel joint (5) acting as an ankle joint (7) by means of which a foot part (10) is rotatably connected in the direction of dorsiflexion and the direction of plantar flexion to the connection part, with a damping arrangement (17) influencing the rotational movement about the swivel joint (5), with a sensor arrangement for detecting action states of the orthopedic foot part, and with a control unit connected to the sensor arrangement which controls the damping arrangement (17). The object is achieved by the fact that the sensor arrangement has an ankle-angle sensor which measures the angle between the connection part and the foot part (10), an absolute-angle sensor (20) relating to the plumb line and a moments sensor (21) for determining the torque on the ankle joint (7) or a force effecting a torque on the ankle joint (7).

Abstract: An artificial foot has a connecting part for a lower leg part, and a base foot part rotatably connected to the connecting part via an ankle joint. The base foot part extends rearwards of the ankle joint in a heel section and forwards of the ankle joint in a midfoot section. A forefoot part is rotatably connected to the midfoot section. In order to allow an automatic adaptation of the foot to varying heel heights while ensuring a good stability, an articulated connection transmits the angular position of the connecting part in relation to the base foot part in a proportional manner to the angular position of the forefoot part in relation to the base foot part.

Abstract: A prosthetic foot and lower part of leg has a semi-rigid, resilient foot keel extending in a longitudinal direction and a semi-rigid, resilient leg portion attached at a lower end to the foot keel. The leg portion includes a plurality of resilient leaf spring type members which are spaced apart in the sagittal plane intermediate their upper and lower ends and which are coupled together at their upper and lower end portions. The members are anterior facing convexly curved at their lower ends forming an ankle joint area and extend upwardly above in a substantially anterior facing convexly curve to a substantially vertically oriented upper end which is displaced substantially in the longitudinal direction in amputee gait for improved dynamic response.

Abstract: The present invention discloses an instrumented prosthetic foot for use with an actuated leg prosthesis controlled by a controller, the instrumented prosthetic foot comprising a connector to connect the instrumented prosthetic foot to the leg prosthesis, an ankle structure connected to the connector, a ground engaging member connected to the ankle, at least one sensor for detecting changes in weight distribution along the foot, and an interface for transmitting signals from the sensor to the controller.

Abstract: A method of producing a generally uniformly roughened surface on Ti 6/4 alloy or titanium for contact with living bone comprises exposing the Ti 6/4 alloy or titanium in an aqueous solution of citric acid and hydrofluoric acid for a suitable time period to remove the native oxide from the Ti 6/4 alloy or titanium so as to expose the Ti 6/4 or titanium metal surface and create the desired surface topography.

Abstract: A cover for a foot prosthesis comprises an opening at a top end of the cover, which extends into a cavity formed within the cover, wherein the cavity is configured to receive a prosthesis therein. A wall surrounds the cavity and has the shape of a natural human foot. The wall has an inner surface and an outer surface. The wall also has a top section, a bottom section and a rear section. The bottom section defines a sole area having a toe section, a heel section, and a metatarsal region, wherein the sole area is provided with varying levels of stiffness configured to induce a desired rollover from heel-to-toe in a lateral-to-medial direction.

Abstract: A prosthetic joint system for users comprising a housing having an interior cavity, a center axis in said interior cavity, and an attachment means for fixedly connecting said housing to said user; an inner cylinder disposed in said housing interior cavity wherein said inner cylinder rotates around said center axis of said housing; an appendage attached to said inner cylinder; a sensor system attached to said appendage; and a dampening system, having a power source, in communication with said sensor system, said inner cylinder, and said housing for controlling dampening of the rotation of said inner cylinder around said center axis of said housing.

Abstract: A prosthetic foot is made by machining or molding a prosthetic foot profile to have a plurality of slots in and along the length of the forefoot region of the foot shape to achieve the appropriate roll-over shape during walking, and slotting the heel region of the machined foot shape to provide shock absorption in early stance phase of walking.

Abstract: A modular prosthetic foot characterized by an ankle component; a forefoot component having a circular part with a rounded top surface and at least one flat side surface, said circular part being connected to a rear part of the forefoot component; a forefoot cushion bumper positioned around the circular part; and a heel component.

Abstract: A cover for a foot prosthesis comprises an opening at a top end of the cover, which extends into a cavity formed within the cover, wherein the cavity is configured to receive a prosthesis therein. A wall surrounds the cavity and has the shape of a natural human foot. The wall has an inner surface and an outer surface. The wall also has a top section, a bottom section and a rear section. The bottom section defines a sole area having a toe section, a heel section, and a metatarsal region, wherein the sole area is provided with varying levels of stiffness configured to induce a desired rollover from heel-to-toe in a lateral-to-medial direction.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an improved system for use in rehabilitation and/or physical therapy for the treatment of injury or disease to the lower limbs or extremities. The system can enable an amputee to proceed over any inclined or declined surface without overbalancing. The system is mechanically passive in that it does not utilize motors, force generating devices, batteries, or powered sources that may add undesirable weight or mass and that may require recharging. In particular the system is self-adapting to adjust the torque moment depending upon the motion, the extent of inclination, and the surface topography. An additional advantage of the improvement is that the system can be light and may also be simple to manufacture.

Abstract: A subtalar implant device includes a rounded end cap region, a threaded region having threads, and a core having a first end, a second end, a core exterior and a longitudinal axis. The threads can have a shape that varies between the first end and the second end of the core. For example, the threads can include an outer edge having an edge width that varies. Further, the threads can include a thread depth that can vary between the first end and the second end of the core. A thread radius of curvature varies at a different rate than a core radius of curvature. The core can define one or more core apertures that extend through the core at various angles relative to the longitudinal axis. In one embodiment, two core apertures are positioned at an angle greater than zero degrees relative to each other.

Abstract: A laminated panel is formable into a prosthesis. An outer layer of the panel has upper and lower surfaces, and is made of a thermoformable material. An inner layer of the panel has upper and lower surfaces, and is positioned relative to the outer layer such that the lower surface of the inner layer faces the upper surface of the outer layer. At least one reinforcement member has an area representing at most part of the upper surface of the outer layer. The reinforcement member is encapsulated between the inner and outer layers at a selected position relative to the outer layer, locally reinforcing the laminated panel. A prosthesis for a foot of a user made from a laminated panel, and a method of forming a prosthesis for a foot of a user with an outer layer of thermoformable material and an inner layer, are also described.

Abstract: A low profile prosthetic foot comprises a foot member extending at an incline from an anterior portion to a posterior portion thereof and configured to flex during motion, and an adapter mounted solely at a posterior section thereof to the posterior portion of the foot member so that the adapter's anterior section can move relative to the foot member and “roll-up” onto the foot member during motion.

Abstract: A prosthetic foot comprises a ground engaging bottom resilient member, a resilient heel member, and a resilient toe member that collectively circumscribe an open volumetric space. The members resilient compress to absorb compressive force throughout the entire stride of an individual utilizing the foot.

Abstract: A prosthetic foot includes a pair of elongated forefoot leaf springs with proximal ends coupled to an attachment member and extending in an arc to distal ends with the forefoot leaf springs being oriented with one over another. The pair of forefoot leaf springs has different lengths and is coupled to one another at the proximal and distal ends defining an open, uninterrupted gap between the forefoot leaf springs. A pair of hinge connections can be disposed each at a different one of the proximal and distal ends of the pair of elongated forefoot leaf springs. The pair of forefoot leaf springs together has a non-linear force deflection under loading during gait.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for producing an artificial foot, comprising a medial plane (M) in a longitudinal axis, in which a nominal foot length (l) is defined as a distance from a heel to a foot tip of a natural foot replaced by the artificial foot, and designed having a top side connecting piece (4) for torsionally rigidly connecting a foot insert (2) extending substantially over the length of the foot (l), and contacting two contact surfaces (6, 7) over the length (l), of which a first heel side contact surface (7) is located in the heel area and a second hall side contact surface (6) is located in the hall area, and designed so that the connecting part (4) is connected to the contact surfaces (6, 7) of the foot part by means of spring connections.

Abstract: Prosthetic feet having a split feature are described. The prosthetic feet can include a plate-like upper element and a plate-like lower element connected to the upper element. The plate-like upper element can include a split that separates the upper element into a medial blade and a lateral blade. A portion of the split can curve in a medial or lateral direction. Portions of the split can also be straight, but askew, from a longitudinal axis of the upper element. The plate-like lower element can also include a similar curved split that separates the lower element into a medial blade and a lateral blade. These features, among others, are designed to provide multi-axial movement capabilities of a natural human foot and enhance roll-over properties while in use.

Abstract: An artificial foot device may include a talus body, a core operatively coupled with the talus body by a first joint, and a toe operatively coupled with the core by a second joint. A vertical restraint link between the toe and the core and provides a coupling for the second joint. A toe insert limits motion of the toe relative to the core. A toe bushing receives a tension member for operatively coupling the toe to the talus body. The vertical restraint link, toe insert and bushing constrains relative movement between the core and the toe at the second joint. Relative movement of the core and the talus body at the first joint is guided and constrained by pivot bearings. Constrained relative movement between the talus body and the core corresponds to a coordinated movement of a first joint and a second joint during ambulation of a natural human foot.

Abstract: An instrumented prosthetic foot for use with an actuated leg prosthesis controlled by a controller, the instrumented prosthetic foot comprising a connector to connect the instrumented prosthetic foot to the leg prosthesis, an ankle structure connected to the connector, a ground engaging member connected to the ankle, at least one sensor for detecting changes in weight distribution along the foot, and an interface for transmitting signals from the sensor to the controller.

Abstract: The present invention discloses an instrumented prosthetic foot for use with an actuated leg prosthesis controlled by a controller, the instrumented prosthetic foot comprising a connector to connect the instrumented prosthetic foot to the leg prosthesis, an ankle structure connected to the connector, a ground engaging member connected to the ankle, at least one sensor for detecting changes in weight distribution along the foot, and an interface for transmitting signals from the sensor to the controller.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention relate to a prosthetic, orthotic, or robotic foot having at least two joints. One joint is located in a position analogous to the human MTP joint, and the other is located in a position analogous to the human subtalar joint. Motions of these two joints are mechanically couples. Furthermore, these joints are created using “tensegrity” design principals, where connections between the compression members are made by a network of tension members. These tension members create axes of motion, and limitations on those axes of motion. Actuators or linear elastic “springs” are use to alter the torque/angular deflection response curve of these joints, so that the rollover profile of the human foot can be duplicated by this invention.

Abstract: A prosthetic joint system for users comprising a housing having an interior cavity, a center axis in said interior cavity, and an attachment means for fixedly connecting said housing to said user; an inner cylinder disposed in said housing interior cavity wherein said inner cylinder rotates around said center axis of said housing; an appendage attached to said inner cylinder; a sensor system attached to said appendage; and a dampening system, having a power source, in communication with said sensor system, said inner cylinder, and said housing for controlling dampening of the rotation of said inner cylinder around said center axis of said housing.

Abstract: Systems and methods for sensing actuating a prosthetic ankle are disclosed. In one example, the system, such as an actuated prosthetic ankle joint, detects that the user has moved to a relaxed position, such as sitting, reclining, crawling, or leaning. In response, the actuated prosthetic ankle joint actively adjusts the angle between the members of the ankle to a relaxed state. The system may further detect when the user has moved to exit the relaxed position, and may actively adjust the angle between the members of the ankle to an exit state.

Abstract: An artificial foot device may include a talus body, a core operatively coupled with the talus body by a first joint, and a toe operatively coupled with the core by a second joint. The first joint may provide for constrained relative movement between the talus body and the core. The second joint may provide for constrained relative movement between the core and the toe. Constrained relative movement between the talus body and the core may substantially correspond to a coordinated movement of a first natural joint and a second natural joint during ambulation of a natural human foot.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for a keel for use in a prosthetic foot. In an embodiment, the keel comprises a forefoot portion having a toe end, wherein the forefoot portion comprises a first material. In addition, the keel comprises a mid-foot portion contiguous with the forefoot portion, wherein the mid-foot portion comprises a second material. Further, the keel comprises a heel portion contiguous with the mid-foot portion, wherein the heel portion comprises a third material. Still further, the second material and third material comprise different materials.

Abstract: A spring orthotic device comprising a cradle for contacting the foot of a user, a spring plate underneath the cradle, a ventral pivot beneath the spring plate, and a dorsal pivot above the spring plate and below the cradle located proximally of the ventral pivot.

Abstract: Systems and method for monitoring gait dynamics are disclosed. The performance of an orthotic or prosthetic device or other device associated with a limb may be measured based on the resistance of a bending sensor. Data from the sensors is gathered or processed, particularly for purposes of alignment, safety, failure, usage, selection, and artificial proprioception. Information relating to the device may be outputted visually or auditorily to an individual.

Abstract: Systems and method for monitoring gait dynamics are disclosed. The performance of an orthotic or prosthetic device or other device associated with a limb may be measured based on the resistance of a bending sensor. Data from the sensors is gathered or processed, particularly for purposes of alignment, safety, failure, usage, selection, and artificial proprioception. Information relating to the device may be outputted visually or auditorily to an individual.

Abstract: A prosthetic foot having an adjustable height heel includes a frame portion with an ankle link pivotally supported on the frame portion at a first pivot axis. A detent rod is pivotally connected to the ankle at a second pivot axis, and a detent member is pivotally affixed to the frame portion at a third pivot axis. The detent member is selectively operable to receive and releasably retain a length of the detent rod therein so that the length of the detent rod extending between the second and third pivot axes may be selectably adjusted. When the length of the rod is so adjusted, the angular relationship of the frame portion and the ankle link is changed thereby changing the heel height of the foot. The detent mechanism may be activated by various means including fluidic means, mechanical means, electromechanical means, and the like.

Abstract: The invention relates to a prosthetic device (30), in particular a foot prosthesis, for fitting leg amputees, with a universal joint mechanism (32), which couples a shaft (34) with a treading attachment (40, 42) through an articulation, wherein the universal joint mechanism (32) comprises a joint element (44) supported such that it is rotatable about a first rotational axis (C) and a second rotational axis (D) differing therefrom.

Abstract: An intramedullary fixation assembly for bone fusion includes a first member positioned at a proximal end of the intramedullary fixation assembly, and a second member positioned at a distal end of the, intramedullary fixation assembly. The first member is slideably coupled to the second member and provides for an interference fit with the second member. The intramedullary fixation assembly includes an optional cannulated threaded screw member having a plurality of threads on an external surface of the threaded screw member.

Abstract: A socket system in a prosthetic or orthotic artificial limb for amputees, the socket system being dynamically activated by weight-bearing loads and variable in response to shear forces imposed by weight-bearing loads. The socket system includes: a liner adapted to engage the residual limb; a semi-flexible inner socket having a textured surface; an inner socket air wick between the liner and the textured surface of the inner socket; a semi-rigid outer socket having a textured surface; an outer socket air wick between the inner socket and the textured surface of the outer socket; a sealing sleeve engaging the outer socket and the residual limb, the sealing sleeve, the outer socket, and the residual limb creating a sealed chamber; and a vacuum source connected to the sealed chamber and creating a vacuum within the sealed chamber. The vacuum source is dynamically activated in response to weight-bearing loads and varies the response of the socket system to shear forces imposed by weight-bearing loads.

Abstract: A neuromorphic controlled powered orthotic and prosthetic system and device including a custom or universal fit fixed-ankle orthosis, to stabilize or immobilize an injured lower limb or act as an ankle prosthesis, and an actuated or powered articulated false-foot connected to the fixed-ankle orthosis or the prosthesis to form an actuated articulated false-foot orthosis. Associated with or mounted on the actuated articulated false-foot, or in or on the body, are sensors for sensing the intent of the subject to move, and the movement range of the articulating false-foot or AAFO and an environmental perturbation. An actuator is used to drive the articulated false-foot orthosis. The system and device further include a controller having an electronic circuit with a biomimetic design based on knowledge of connectivity of neurons within the spinal cord of a primitive vertebrate.

Abstract: A prosthesis system includes a reconfigurable socket. The socket changes configurations to adjust the socket fit. The socket includes a socket main body with a window and a panel positioned in the window. The panel and the socket main body cooperate to define a cavity for receiving a residual limb. A lacing system is coupled to both the socket main body and the panel and moves the panel with respect to the socket main body to adjust a volume of the cavity. A tensioning mechanism holds the lacing system to position the adjustment panel. The prosthesis system also allows for the escape of moisture from within the cavity.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a prosthetic foot and ankle, comprising an ankle assembly coupled with a foot assembly by an arch suspension yoke, with the ankle assembly enabling primary articulations of the foot assembly and the pre-orientation thereof in relation to a vertical axis. Further, the foot assembly having a plantar surface and a dorsal surface includes a heel coupled with a fore foot by the arch suspension yoke, with the arch suspension yoke enabling secondary articulations of the foot assembly. Prosthetic foot and ankle further includes leaf springs and elastomer springs enabling tertiary articulations throughout the prosthetic foot and ankle.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for a prosthetic foot for attachment to a socket worn by an amputee. In an embodiment, the prosthetic foot comprises a body including a forefoot portion and a heel portion. In addition, the prosthetic foot comprises at least one attachment member extending from the body and conformable to the socket.

Abstract: The present invention discloses an instrumented prosthetic foot for use with an actuated leg prosthesis controlled by a controller, the instrumented prosthetic foot comprising a connector to connect the instrumented prosthetic foot to the leg prosthesis, an ankle structure connected to the connector, a ground engaging member connected to the ankle, at least one sensor for detecting changes in weight distribution along the foot, and an interface for transmitting signals from the sensor to the controller.

Abstract: An image is captured or otherwise converted into a signal in an artificial vision system. The signal is transmitted to the retina utilizing an implant. The implant consists of a polymer substrate made of a compliant material such as poly(dimethylsiloxane) or PDMS. The polymer substrate is conformable to the shape of the retina. Electrodes and conductive leads are embedded in the polymer substrate. The conductive leads and the electrodes transmit the signal representing the image to the cells in the retina. The signal representing the image stimulates cells in the retina.

Abstract: Systems and method for monitoring gait dynamics are disclosed. The performance of an orthotic or prosthetic device or other device associated with a limb may be measured based on the resistance of a bending sensor. Data from the sensors is gathered or processed, particularly for purposes of alignment, safety, failure, usage, selection, and artificial proprioception. Information relating to the device may be outputted visually or auditorily to an individual.

Abstract: A foreshortened prosthesis comprising a socket, an adapter attached distally to said socket, and a foot attached to the adapter. The foot comprises a lower base plate formed as a flat peripherally-curvilinear member fixedly attached to the adapter and defining a short toe, a longer heel, and an instep there between. In addition, an upper slide plate is sandwiched between the adapter and lower base plate, but is not otherwise attached to the lower base. The upper slide plate is smaller and narrower than the lower base plate and slides there against under the weight of a heel strike, thereby serving as a leaf spring damper and suspension to smooth ambulation. This provides a BAK amputee with a more comfortable and natural gait, at a suitable angle and orientation, with smooth and comfortable flex relative to the direction of travel.

Abstract: Hybrid terrain-adaptive lower-extremity apparatus and methods that perform in a variety of different situations by detecting the terrain that is being traversed, and adapting to the detected terrain. In some embodiments, the ability to control the apparatus for each of these situations builds upon five basic capabilities: (1) determining the activity being performed; (2) dynamically controlling the characteristics of the apparatus based on the activity that is being performed; (3) dynamically driving the apparatus based on the activity that is being performed; (4) determining terrain texture irregularities (e.g., how sticky is the terrain, how slippery is the terrain, is the terrain coarse or smooth, does the terrain have any obstructions, such as rocks) and (5) a mechanical design of the apparatus that can respond to the dynamic control and dynamic drive.

Abstract: A robotic prosthesis alignment device is disclosed that may automatically move the alignment of a prosthesis socket in relation to a prosthesis shank. The robotic prosthesis alignment device provides automatic translation in two axes. The robotic prosthesis alignment device includes angulation mechanics that automatically provide for plantarflexion, dorsiflexion, inversion, and eversion of the foot and shank with respect to the prosthesis socket. A surrogate device is also disclosed that can replicate the alignment achieved with the robotic prosthesis alignment device.

Abstract: An articulating connection or joint for a limb support device having a first support member and a second support member pivotably couples together the first support member and the second support member. The articulating connection can include one or more first articulating connection member, or load-bearing pin, and one or more second articulating connection member, or bushing, disposed about the first and second support members. The load-bearing pin is coupled to one of the support members and the bushing is coupled to another of the support members. The bushing is configured to rotatingly receive the load-bearing pin and interacts with an actuation member configured to apply a force on the load-bearing pin to eccentrically align the load-bearing pin relative to the bushing so that the load-bearing pin continuously follows and contacts a bearing surface of the bushing during use of the limb support device, thereby inhibiting noise generation from the interaction of the bushing and load-bearing pin.

Abstract: A system and method for improving proprioception in a patient having a feedback site are disclosed. The method includes affixing to the feedback site a sensor adapted to provide a sensor signal indicative of a sensed parameter, providing to the patient a signaler adapted to generate a manual signal in response to actuation by the patient, providing a microprocessor programmed to receive the sensor signal and the manual signal and to generate a system output based on the sensor signal and the manual signal, causing the patient to actuate the signaler on the basis of sensation at the feedback site, and causing the microprocessor to generate a system output based on the sensor signal and the manual signal.

Abstract: A system for assisting the motion of a body connected through joints provides a system for imparting a suitable torque to the connected body at the time of various turns including the bending of the joints. The torque imparting system has first and second measuring means, a reference work volume determining means, and an external torque determining means. The first measuring means measures the internal work volume of the around-joint leg. The second measuring means measures an external work volume around a joint imparted to the leg. The reference work volume determining means determines a reference work volume based on the internal work volume. The external torque determining means determines an external torque imparted to the leg so as to reduce the difference between the internal work volume of the leg and the reference work volume, based on the external work volume.

Abstract: A simple, inexpensive prosthetic foot is provided incorporating a cushioned ankle including an ankle block formed of a resilient material or bladder having desired compliance and energy return characteristics. The ankle block is sandwiched between a foot element and an ankle element. One or more openings extends through the ankle block with a substantially transverse orientation relative to a forward walking motion. The size and shape of these openings, as well as the insertion of different types of stiffeners therein, provide desired performance characteristics to the ankle block. When the ankle block takes the form of one or more inflatable bladders, the pressure within these bladders is individually controlled by valves to provide desired performance characteristics to different portions of the prosthetic foot. A pump system can also be used to control and generate fluid pressure into these bladders.

Abstract: The invention relates to an orthopedic device (1) comprising two components (24, 10; 25, 10; 33, 35) which are mounted so as to be pivotable relative to one another. A generator (90) is provided for generating electric power. Said generator (90) is driven by means of a transmitting mechanism (50) which transmits a relative movement of the two components (24, 10; 25, 10; 33, 35) to each other. An energy store (70) is mounted in front of the generator (90), and the transmitting mechanism (50) allows force to be transmitted only in one direction.

Abstract: A sole has forward and rearward ends and lateral side edges. The sole has an upper and a lower surface with a periphery. A forward extent and a rearward extent each constitute a minority of the length of the sole. A central extent is provided between the forward and rearward extents. An upwardly extending tube has a free upper end and a lower end coupled to upper surface of the sole. The tube has a threaded aperture. A bolt is threadedly received within the threaded aperture. Strengthening ribs couple to the upper surface of the sole.