Bi-Modal Ankle-Foot Systems for Standing and Walking

NU 2008-114

Short Description

A bi-modal prosthetic foot

Abstract

The Bi-Modal Prosthetic Foot presents a flat foot during standing and a flexible foot during walking.  It can assume a stable position during standing and a biomimetic "rollover shape" during walking. The Bi-Modal Prosthetic Foot achieves this via a locking mechanism in the ankle joint, as shown below. The locking mechanism can be controlled wirelessly using a key fob. A working prototype has been constructed and testing has verified its function in both standing and walking modes.

Applications

• Ankle-Foot Prosthesis

Advantages

• Mimics natural ankle-foot function for walking and standing
• Should provide improved balance and balance confidence to users during standing tasks

IP Status

Issued US Patent No. 8,764,850