Tekscan Announces Pressure Mapping Systems That Are Both Plug-N-Play and Versatile

Tekscan, Inc. announces a redesign of their pressure mapping and force measurement systems. With new VersaTek technology, these systems connect via USB, have higher sampling speeds, and can collect in-shoe, barefoot, prosthetic, and seat data with the convenience of one set of electronics.

Boston, MA (PRWEB) July 26, 2007 -- Tekscan, Inc. is pleased to announce a new generation of their pressure mapping and force measurement systems to allow for greater versatility across applications. This new hardware platform, named "VersaTek," is portable with USB connectivity, versatile because it can use a variety of sensors, and has a faster scan rate to capture dynamic events. Users will now have the ability to affordably add on other sensors to their VersaTek system for such applications as:

·In-shoe pressure mapping (for gait analysis or determination of orthotic efficiency)
·Floor Mat foot pressure mapping (for barefoot walk-over plantar surface pressure analysis)
·Prosthetic studies (understanding stump to socket fit)
·Grip pressure (for ergonomic studies)
·Support surface pressure mapping (such as wheel chair pads for paraplegics)
·Walkways (for floor-mounted gait analysis)

Because of a connection to the computer through a USB port, VersaTek systems are virtually "Plug-N-Play" and easily used among several departments of a clinic. They are more portable than previous products because they do not require a desktop computer with a slot for a PCI card or a laptop with a Magma card adaptor box. Thus, the convenience of a USB connection with VersaTek is a significant improvement in ease-of use.

Sensors are now available with a new Edge connector, providing a secure link to the electronics. The Edge connector is designed into sensors for floor mats, in-shoe, prosthetics, grip, seating, and walkways. The user can capture pressure data related to various clinical or research needs with the same electronics. For example, a VersaTek user with an in-shoe system can easily add on a floor mat for barefoot pressure measurement. Clinics that make the initial investment of a system can then continue to add on sensors for other purposes as their needs evolve and budget allows.

Faster scan rates assure that dynamic events will be captured with the best possible fidelity. Walking, running, or jumping result in rapid changes of force and pressure applied to the sensor. With VersaTek electronics, the F-Scan in-shoe sensor can be scanned at up to 850 Hz providing about 1 millisecond resolution.

To learn more about this exciting new product, contact us at marketing @ tekscan.com.

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