Design, Finite Element Analysis and Fabrication of Composite Orthoses for Bunions; A Comprehensive Study.
Department
Mechanical Engineering
Additional Department
Civil and Environmental Engineering
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
Fall 9-28-2023
Embargo Period
3-22-2024
Abstract
This paper details the development and fabrication of an external support, designed to non-invasively correct mild to moderate cases of hallux valgus (HV), or bunions. Two external orthopedic models, constructed from composite materials, are developed. Each model consists of a polymeric shell wrapping around the foot and two toes, and a metal or carbon fibre insert that keeps the large toe straight and produces resistance. The models allow for the toes to stay spaced and parallel. The models were designed using SolidWorks© and their structural integrities were analyzed with the included finite element analysis (FEA) package. The polymeric shell is made of a soft polymer and the inserts have been made of aluminum and steel. Displacement values and von Mises stress values obtained by FEA simulation were verified by the MATLAB© program written for this foot support. The first model was constructed using 3D printing techniques to validate the findings.
Journal Title
International Journal of Product Sound Quality
Journal ISSN
1742-6766
Volume
1
Issue
1
First Page
59
Last Page
77
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
https://doi.org/10.1504/IJPSQ.2023.133665