A system and method for sensing movement of a device associated with a
limb. In one example, a prosthetic or orthotic system includes a sensor
assembly configured to measure movement of a component of the system in a
single direction while substantially isolating negative effects of forces
and/or loads in other directions. For instance, the sensor assembly may
be advantageously coupled to a pivot assembly configured to substantially
mimic a natural ankle joint. The sensor assembly may monitor rotation of
a foot unit about an axis of a pivot pin of the pivot assembly and
disregard other movements and/or forces. For example, the sensor assembly
may include a potentiometer that detects rotation of an associated
elongated bellow portion about the axis, wherein the bellow portion
includes a plurality of ridges configured to substantially eliminate
effects of radial and/or axial forces.