MIT patents schematics for mechanical foot/ankle

MIT has patented a nifty looking mechanical foot prosthesis for foot amputees. The device attempts to provide a more natural gait by storing energy in a spring as the person steps down, and then releasing it to propel the person forward. It also contains motors that orient the foot when not in contact with a surface, as well as sensors to determine what kind of surfaces the foot is dealing with.
The motor elements of the device use MITs “Biomimetic Hybrid Actuators,” which attempt to mimic human musculoskeletal architecture by storing and releasing energy and having dynamic stiffness.
The boys at MIT definitely need a better name for the device since “Artificial ankle-foot system with spring, variable-damping, and series-elastic actuator components ” is a little rough on the ears.
Story @ NewScientist
Patent Application
(Hat Tip: Engadget)