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Automated process of making custom-made insoles Karlo Obrovac1, Jadranka Vuković Obrovac, Adriana Obrovac 1Ortogen d.o.o., Croatia BACKGROUND: Orthopedic insoles are widely used in the treatment of various foot conditions. They relieve high load areas, support foot structures, prevent unwanted movements and generally promote propulsion. Current problem is the limitations in the production of a custom product. The classic production of insoles using plaster molds is a time-consuming and skill requiring process. A product made this way is expensive and the repeatability of its precise production is questionable. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Modern production systems are mainly based on CAD/CAM. Although more advanced than the classic ones, this procedure still requires the presence of a professional during all activities of the procedure. As such, it does not allow for mass and fast production and is still expensive. Given the above, our practical solution is affordable, easy to maintain and manage, allowing the user to conduct scan the feet surface, start the production process and within a short time get a pair of custom made insoles ready for use. RESULTS: Once the procedure is completed, the user easily separates the finished ready-to-use pair of insoles from the material block. In addition, its modular concept allows particular assembly units to be physically separated and put at different locations. CONCLUSION: Through the IPASIOU project, such automated system for the production of custom insoles has been successfully realized. The system includes a digitizing device and a specially designed CNC machine, which, with the accompanying software, enables the production of insoles extremely quickly. With its unique characteristics it represents a step forward towards those currently present in practice. |
