I-Corps: A generation-3 shape memory alloy actuated ankle foot orthosis

University Of Toledo, Toledo OH

Investigators

Abstract

The proposed project will optimize the fabrication of an ankle foot orthosis (AFO) to address the needs of drop-foot patients. These patients are unable to dorsiflex their foot because of impaired muscle activity around the ankle. The project team has developed a prototype orthosis using a shape memory alloy (SMA) wire actuator. The actuator captures and releases energy during walking to provide dorsiflexion motion, which drop-foot patients' lack. The proposed research includes performing methodical study toward achieving super-elastic behavior in shape memory parts created using selective laser melting and developing a proof of concept shape memory hinge to capture and release energy to the ankle without the need to external sources of energy. If successful, the proposed research could have a significant impact on the advancement of active ankle foot orthosis. Every year a large number of individuals experience a loss of ability to dorsiflex the ankle due to disease or traumatic injury to the lower extremity that resulted from automobile accident or work-related causes. Of particular note, these last two conditions associated with foot drop (traumatic brain injury and traumatic lower extremity injury) are very common among soldiers.