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Author

Alexis Thibodeau

Bio: Alexis Thibodeau is an academic researcher. The author has contributed to research in topics: Forefoot & Ankle. The author has co-authored 1 publications.

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TL;DR: In this paper , a novel surrogate lower limb (SLL) was designed and evaluated based on a literature consensus of passive lower limb motion, which is intended to replace single axis surrogates currently used in mechanical testing of ankle-foot orthoses (AFO).
Abstract: Purpose This study designs and provides a pilot evaluation of a novel surrogate lower limb (SLL) that provides anatomically realistic three-dimensional (3D) foot motion, based on a literature consensus of passive lower limb motion. This SLL is intended to replace single axis surrogates currently used in mechanical testing of ankle-foot orthoses (AFO). Material and Methods The SLL design is inspired by the Rizzoli foot model, with shank, hindfoot, midfoot, forefoot, and toe sections. Ball and socket joints were used between hindfoot-midfoot (HM)-forefoot sections. Forefoot-toes used a hinge joint. Three-dimensional printed nylon, thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) and polylactic acid (PLA), as well as casted silicone rubber were used to re-create foot components. After fabrication, motion capture was performed to measure rotation using fiducial markers. The SLL was then loaded under both static and cyclic loads representing a 100 kg person walking for 500,000 cycles. Results Most joints were within 5° of target angles. The SLL survived static loads representing 1.5 times body weight for both static and cyclical loading. Conclusions This SLL moved as designed and survived testing loads, warranting further investigation towards enabling essential mechanical testing for AFO currently on the market, and helping to guide device prescription.