Mathematical, detailed and parametric modelling for smart spinal orthoses

Abstract

The paper presents a mathematical model and the design details to manufacture a prototype of a smart orthosis for posture correction while sitting on a chair at your office or at home. The global geometry for developing the mathematical model was obtained by direct measuring a human 3D model, developed by scanning one of the authors' body and 3D printing it. Based on the mathematical model, the detailed design for the entire product was performed in accordance with the product architecture. The stages of detailed design for the critical systems within the final assembly are also presented in the paper. The posture correction orthosis must be customized for each user, thus, once the design for the critical components has been validated, a parametric design has been generated to facilitate the manufacturing process. The technical solutions are generated and analysed for a vertebral element of the orthosis, representing the critical component of the product. The vertebral element is subject to mechanical stresses, so that a finite element analysis was performed. The geometry of the component and its material were validated by using FEA on the CAD model of the vertebral element. The further work will include research regarding the changes needed for transforming the orthosis into a medical device for spinal column illnesses.