The core application difference between plantar 3D scanner and plantar pressure plate
1. Core function difference
Uses non-contact optical technology (structured light/laser) to capture foot morphological data, including three-dimensional geometric features such as arch height, foot length, and foot width, with millimeter-level accuracy. Suitable for digital modeling of foot shape and customized product design (such as orthopedic insoles, sports shoes).
Pressure plate
Measures dynamic/static plantar pressure distribution through sensor array, analyzes biomechanical parameters such as pressure peak, pressure transfer path, and left and right foot symmetry during the gait cycle. Mainly used to evaluate foot dysfunction (such as flatfoot compensation mode) and sports injury risk.
2. Data type and output form
3D scanner Generates 3D point cloud model of the foot (STL format), arch angle measurement report, and volume data of each area of the foot
Pressure plate Outputs 2D/3D pressure heat map, pressure peak coordinates, gait time-space parameters (cadence, support phase ratio)
3. Application field focus
3D scanner
▶ Footwear industry: personalized shoe last design and mass production
▶ Medical orthotics: production of orthotics that accurately match the arch support structure
▶ Scientific research field: foot development law and morphological research
Pressure plate
▶ Clinical diagnosis: screening of diabetic foot ulcer risk areas
▶ Sports medicine: athlete gait optimization and injury prevention
▶ Rehabilitation assessment: verification of biomechanical improvements before and after the use of corrective devices
IV. Typical use scenarios
The 3D scanner needs to maintain a static standing posture to complete the scan (taking about 5-10 seconds), and the measurement environment requires stable lighting
The pressure plate needs to collect data during dynamic walking or specific actions (standing on one leg), and the test process requires standardized pace control
V. Combined application value
The two are often used together to form a closed-loop solution:
Use 3D scanning to obtain foot anatomical structure data and establish a basic model of the corrective device
Use dynamic testing of the pressure plate to verify the correction effect and optimize the hardness gradient of the material in the support area
Use the pressure plate to dynamically test and optimize the hardness gradient of the support area
Use the pressure plate to achieve the dual correction goals of “morphological adaptation + functional compensation”
