Methods and devices for reducing stance energy for rehabilitation and to enhance physical performance

Abstract

A method for reducing stance energy is provided. The method including: storing energy during one or more periods of a periodic motion of a joint in which energy is absorbed by the muscles; at least partially returning the stored energy to the muscles during one or more periods in which the muscles are performing work; and producing a resisting moment at the joint in addition to a moment necessary for the storing. A method for rehabilitating muscles acting across a joint is also provided in which an amount of the storing is adjusted to provide a desired rehabilitative effect. Also provided is a method for enhancing performance of a physical activity where energy is absorbed by muscles associated with the motion and the stored energy is at least partially returned to the muscles during one or more periods of the motion in which the muscles are performing work.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION [0001] This application claims priority to earlier filed U.S. provisional application, Ser. No. 60 / 600,456 filed on Aug. 11, 2004, the entire contents of which is incorporated herein by its reference.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] 1. Field of the Invention [0003] The present invention relates generally to walk-assist and power generation devices and methods, and more particularly, to devices, which generate power and / or assist movement when worn. [0004] 2. Prior Art [0005] During walking on a flat, rigid and horizontal surface, a human subject spends energy and tires. On the other hand, if the human subject were instead riding a bicycle that is in good condition, the subject has to spend a significantly less amount of energy to travel the same amount of distance. And in general, the faster the person walks (or runs), the difference between the amount of energy that has to be spent to travel a certain distance on foot or on bicycle becomes g...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present invention provides methods and devices to reduce both "locomotion energy" and "stance energy". The methods and devices can be used to reduce fatigue and increase performance during physical activities such as walking, running, bicycling, rowing, and swimming. The devices can be simple or complex, and can include active elements to achieve higher efficiency and programmable operation. The methods and devices can also be used for rehabilitation purposes by storing and returning energy to the muscles during a periodic motion of a joint. The invention also provides a method for enhancing performance of a physical activity by storing and returning energy to the muscles during the motion.

Problems solved by technology

More complex devices can be used to eliminate larger portions of the locomotion energy.

The complexity in the latter devices can be in terms of the mechanisms to be used and the active components and controls that are needed to make them highly effective.

Images