Revolutionizing Footcare: Innovative Foot and Leg Scanning Tool Enhances Service Delivery

Impact summary

The successful completion of an industry-funded project with Foot Balance Technology Pty Ltd led to the development of an innovative foot and leg scanning tool. This achievement resulted in a significant impact, including publications in high-ranking journals, recognition in industry publications, and improved service delivery for patients. The research created awareness in the industry and fostered potential collaborations and engagement with the target business customers of Foot Balance Technology Pty Ltd.

Research and engagement activities leading to impact

The project aimed to investigate the viability of developing a digital foot measurement app using smartphones and state-of-the-art technologies to enhance patients' footcare experiences. The rationale behind the research was to address the need for improved diagnostic capabilities and personalized treatment approaches. As the sole and lead investigator, I collaborated closely with Foot Balance Technology Pty Ltd, utilizing their expertise in the field and incorporating user feedback throughout the study. The project received funding support from the company, which facilitated the research activities.

Research outputs associated with the impact

The research outputs included two publications in Q1-ranked journals, showcasing the high quality and impact of the findings. Additionally, one of the articles was featured in "Pedorthics" magazine, the official publication of the Pedorthic Footcare Association, USA. These publications provided a platform to disseminate the research findings, contributing to the advancement of knowledge in the field. The developed foot and leg scanning tool itself was a tangible output with significant technological implications.

Researcher involvement

As the lead investigator, I played a crucial role in conceptualizing and executing the research activities. My expertise in the field of smartphone technology, along with my research capabilities in computer vision and artificial intelligence, contributed to the successful completion of the project. I worked closely with Foot Balance Technology Pty Ltd, establishing a collaborative relationship and incorporating their input and resources into the research process. Together, I worked towards capacity building, fostering expertise and experience that led to the successful application of two external grants in 2023 — the National Industry Ph.D. Program and the HCF Foundation Grant.

Outcomes of research leading to impact

The research outcomes were implemented and adopted by end-users, resulting in a tangible impact. The findings of my study assisted to develop a foot and leg scanning tool that enhanced the patient experience by providing more accurate diagnoses and personalized treatment recommendations. The tool's adoption by Foot Balance Technology Pty Ltd led to improved service delivery and increased customer satisfaction. Additionally, the research created awareness in the industry, attracting interest from potential business customers and collaborators, thus fostering future partnerships and engagements.

Beneficiaries of the impact

The beneficiaries of the research impact include Foot Balance Technology Pty Ltd, their target business customers, and patients seeking footcare services. Foot Balance Technology Pty Ltd directly benefited from the innovative tool, which enhanced their service offerings and strengthened their position in the market. The target business customers of Foot Balance Technology Pty Ltd, such as podiatrists and orthopedic specialists, gained access to an advanced scanning tool, enabling them to provide more accurate diagnoses and tailored treatment options. Ultimately, the end-users—patients—experienced improved footcare services and a higher level of personalized care.

Details of the impact achieved

The impact achieved through this research can be measured by several factors. Firstly, the publication of two articles in Q1-ranked journals demonstrates the academic recognition and dissemination of the research findings. The feature of one article in "Pedorthics" magazine further amplifies the reach of the research within the pedorthic footcare community. Additionally, the successful development and adoption of the foot and leg scanning tool by Foot Balance Technology Pty Ltd led to improved service delivery and customer satisfaction. Evidence of the impact can be observed through positive feedback from patients, increased engagement with target business customers, and the heightened awareness and recognition garnered within the industry.

Impact date	2022
Category of impact	Other Impact
Impact level	International