Opto-electronic system for detection of flat foot by using estimation techniques: Study and approach of design

Distribution of Foot Pressure reflects the deformations of body biomechanical design. They are caused by different reasons: degenerative, by trauma, etc., being flat foots a common pathology in Peru with high incidence. However there isn't the properly technology to detect properly this disease because is detected by a non-reliable visual way using pedoscopes. Flat foot is the degree of internal plantar arch lack and is well observed in foot pressure distribution. This distribution can be obtained by optical or electronic systems. The most required, by their accuracy, are the electronic ones but sensor manufacturing process increases its price, meanwhile optics provides an indirect optical solution whose price depends on scanners resolution. Therefore, this paper takes advantage of both systems: a direct pressure value from electronics and no problems calibration from optical systems. In regard of these reasons, prototype will use a webcam and twelve FSR (Force sensing resistor) sensors including estimation techniques, and thus obtain the foot pressure distribution. Accordingly, the present study is looking for providing to the specialist with an efficient tool to generate better diagnostics in Perú.