We 3D-printed iteration 1 of our mechanical prototype of the gear latching mechanism.

drawing
CAD Animation of Prototype 1

The cyan gear-shaft component spools the cable that connects to the rest of the bracing system so that when the ankle rotates, the cable spools and causes the gear to rotate.

The red latch piece catches on to the gear teeth to hinder the spooling of the cable. It is spring-loaded so that the latch is kept in place in both the engaged and disengaged positions.

Because this prototype is meant to be a proof of concept, it is made much bigger than what our final product will be.

Here it is in action!

drawing
drawing
drawing