CO Materials Science & Fabrication Techniques Flashcards
6 cards from real CO practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 CO Materials Science & Fabrication Techniques flashcards as text
Which thermoplastic material is most commonly used for high-temperature molding of AFOs due to its rigidity and durability?
Answer: Polypropylene
Polypropylene is the most widely used thermoplastic for rigid AFOs because it provides excellent structural rigidity, durability, and can be vacuum-formed at high temperatures.
What is the primary purpose of using a cast sock when taking a plaster of Paris impression for a custom orthosis?
Answer: To provide a uniform interface and protect the skin during casting
A cast sock provides a smooth, uniform interface between the patient's skin and the plaster, protecting the skin and ensuring an accurate impression.
Which property of carbon fiber makes it advantageous over polypropylene for energy-storing AFOs?
Answer: High stiffness-to-weight ratio with elastic energy return
Carbon fiber's high stiffness-to-weight ratio allows it to store and return elastic energy during gait, making it ideal for dynamic AFO designs.
What does the term 'trim lines' refer to in orthotic fabrication?
Answer: The cut edges that define the extent and flexibility of a plastic orthosis
Trim lines are the cut edges of a plastic orthosis that determine its lateral and medial extent, directly controlling the device's flexibility and range of motion control.
Low-density polyethylene (LDPE) is preferred over polypropylene for pediatric total contact insoles primarily because it:
Answer: Is softer and more flexible, accommodating a child's developing foot
LDPE is softer and more flexible than polypropylene, making it appropriate for pediatric insoles where gentle accommodation of a developing foot is required.
When vacuum-forming a thermoplastic orthosis, what is the role of the vacuum pressure?
Answer: To draw the softened plastic tightly against the positive model for an accurate fit
Vacuum pressure draws the heated thermoplastic sheet firmly against the positive model, ensuring intimate contact and an accurate reproduction of the model's contours.
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