| Traditional materials used for orthotic devices have remained relatively unchanged since the introduction of plastics as a replacement for leather and steel in the mid-seventies. This work evaluates fiber-reinforced plastics available today and determines their feasibility for use as an alternative. Thermoset plastics are not included in this study because the majority of the bracing applications require post-forming adjustments. Thermoset plastics have an important role in local stiffening applications because of this constraint.;This paper also demonstrates that these materials do not require deviation from the fabrication practices currently employed. The same rudimentary fabrication equipment found in today's shops is adequate for processing the enhanced materials.;Thermoplastic material is, and will continue to be, the mainstay of the industry. It is shown in this paper, through analytical methods, that fiber reinforcement of thermoplastic materials offers significant improvements over today's homogeneous usage. The two most promising matrix materials are polycarbonate and polypropylene. |
