Patent ID: 6146344
Filing Date: 2000-11-14
Classification: A61F

Abstract:
A lower limb orthotic brace to control the movement of the lower limb of a patient comprising a contoured orthotic contact shell and an integral load-bearing frame, said contoured orthotic contact shell comprises at least one layer of fabric impregnated with a hardened structural resin forming an inner orthotic contact surface conforming to the outer surface of the lower limb of the patient and the integral load-bearing frame comprises at least one reinforcing member extending along said contoured orthotic contact shell including a plurality of bundled continuous composite fibers woven in a multidirectional tubular braid impregnated with a hardened structural resin with at least one side of said braid in contact with said contoured orthotic contact shell along the entire length of the braid such that the hardened resins impregnating said fabric of said contoured orthotic contact shell combine with the resins impregnating said braid thereby forming a continuous integral structural matrix encapsulating both said braid and said contoured orthotic contact shell.