Hinge system with adjustable resistance

Abstract

An adjustable resistance hinge system for connecting an articulating joint of at least a first articulating member and a second articulating member, the hinge system including a central element defining a hinge axis. The central element includes a first elongated arm and a second elongated arm, each elongated arm extending away from the hinge axis, and a first retaining element and a second retaining element respectively attached to the first articulating member and the second articulating member, each retaining element hinged on the hinge axis. A first biasing device and a second biasing device are also respectively engaged with the first elongated arm and the second elongated arm. The first elongated arm and the second elongated arm respectively extend into the first articulating member and the second articulating member, and the first biasing device and the second biasing device engage the central element to resist relative movement of the first articulating member and the second articulating member about the hinge axis. The adjustable resistance hinge system allows adjustment of the two linked members to replicate desired physiological, limiting, and resistance.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an adjustable resistance hinge system for joints. Specifically, although not exclusively, this invention relates to an adjustable resistance hinge system for joints in human models. Background Technology

[0002] Various types of adjustable hinges are used to connect components while providing resistance control. Typically, hinges may require adjustment of resistance and / or limitation of their range of motion. This is particularly relevant in the construction of mannequins where anthropomorphic limbs closely mimic the movement limitations of the human body. This is especially important in the production of dolls for toys, crash test dummies for safety testing, or other situations where mannequins are used to simulate the interaction between the human body and product or environmental conditions.

[0003] For example, the device disclosed in US 4261113, entitled "Anthropomorphic dummy for use in vehicle crash testing," defines an anthropomorphic dummy suitable for use in vehicle crash testing. Devices like these focus on providing a human model with a skeletal structure wrapped with an elastic, compressible material to simulate the human body.

[0004] Other systems, such as US 4669302 entitled "Deflection and topography assessment mechanism anthropomorphically natural", define a mannequin that is used to press against a surface (such as a mattress), thereby allowing analysis of the resulting surface profile and pressure distribution on the mannequin.

[0005] Furthermore, adjustable hinges with varying resistance and tension typically feature adjustable screws that increase friction within the hinge. These types of adjustable hinges are limited in terms of fine-tuning precision and are prone to increased wear and slack in set resistance over time.

[0006] Therefore, an improved adjustable resistance hinge system is needed. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The preferred object of the present invention is to provide a system and / or apparatus and / or method for solving or improving one or more of the aforementioned problems in the prior art and / or providing a useful commercial alternative.

[0008] This invention relates to an adjustable resistance hinge system for a joint. In one form, though not necessarily the most widespread, the invention relates to an adjustable resistance hinge system for connecting at least a first hinge member and a second hinge member, the hinge system comprising: a central element defining a hinge axis, the central element including a first elongated arm and a second elongated arm, each elongated arm extending away from the hinge axis; a first retaining element and a second retaining element hinged on the hinge axis and respectively attached to the first hinge member and the second hinge member; and a first biasing device and a second biasing device engageable with the first elongated arm and the second elongated arm, respectively; wherein the first elongated arm and the second elongated arm extend into the first hinge member and the second hinge member, respectively; and wherein the first biasing device and the second biasing device engage the central element to resist relative movement of the first hinge member and the second hinge member about the hinge axis.

[0009] Preferably, the adjustable resistance hinge system further includes a third retaining element and a fourth retaining element, wherein the third retaining element and the fourth retaining element extend into and are attached to the first hinge member and the second hinge member, respectively.

[0010] Preferably, any of the retaining elements includes an elongated body extending away from the hinge axis.

[0011] More preferably, any of the retaining elements includes one or more fixing elements positioned at the distal end of the elongated body extending away from the hinge axis.

[0012] Preferably, the one or more fixing elements are one or more horizontal pins that protrude perpendicularly to the elongated body extending away from the hinge axis.

[0013] Preferably, the adjustable resistance hinge system further includes a third biasing device and a fourth biasing device; wherein the third biasing device and the fourth biasing device respectively engage the first elongated arm and the second elongated arm; and wherein the third biasing device and the fourth biasing device are respectively positioned relative to the first biasing device and the second biasing device.

[0014] Preferably, the first elongated arm and the second elongated arm each include a distal end extending away from the hinge axis, and each distal end defines an engagement surface where the biasing device engages with the respective elongated component.

[0015] Preferably, any one of the biasing devices includes: a retaining fastener; a compression spring; and an engagement spacer.

[0016] More preferably, the compression spring causes the engagement spacer to engage the center element; the retaining fastener captures the compression spring; the retaining fastener is adjustable; and adjusting the retaining fastener adjusts the pre-compression of the compression spring on the spacer engaging the center element.

[0017] More preferably, the retaining fastener is a flathead screw.

[0018] Preferably, the first hinge component and the second hinge component each include at least one aperture for inserting and adjusting one of the biasing devices.

[0019] Preferably, the retaining element is spaced apart from the central element.

[0020] Preferably, the first hinge component and the second hinge component are each formed by two outer shell halves.

[0021] Preferably, the first hinge component and the second hinge component enclose the hinge system.

[0022] Preferably, the first hinge component and the second hinge component are components of the human body model.

[0023] More preferably, the plurality of biasing devices are adjusted to reflect the limitations of the articulated human joint.

[0024] More preferably, either the first hinge component or the second hinge component further includes a suspension rope configured to suspend the mannequin.

[0025] Preferably, the central element further includes a measuring rope configured to attach to the measuring device.

[0026] Preferably, the second hinge component further includes a swivel ring that defines a rotation axis perpendicular to the hinge axis.

[0027] Preferably, the second hinge component is further connected to a third hinge component and a fourth hinge component, which are configured to rotate about the axis of rotation. Attached Figure Description

[0028] To aid in understanding the invention and to enable those skilled in the art to practice it, preferred embodiments of the invention will be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0029] Figure 1 This is an exploded view of an adjustable resistance hinge system for a joint according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] Figure 2 It is by Figure 1 An exploded view of the three components connected by the adjustable resistance hinge system.

[0031] Figure 3 This is an exploded view of a human model hip joint connected by a further embodiment of an adjustable resistance hinge system for joints, according to another embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0032] This invention relates to an adjustable resistance hinge system for connecting at least a first hinge member and a second hinge member in a joint. However, it should be understood that embodiments of the invention can be applied to other types of joints connecting separate hinge members. Elements of the invention are illustrated in the figures in a concise overview form, thereby showing only the specific details necessary for understanding embodiments of the invention, while avoiding confusion for those skilled in the art due to excessive detail that would be obvious from this specification.

[0033] According to one embodiment, the present invention is defined as a joint-adjustable resistance hinge system for connecting at least a first hinge member and a second hinge member, the hinge system comprising: a central element defining a hinge axis, the central element including a first elongated arm and a second elongated arm, each elongated arm extending away from the hinge axis; a first retaining element and a second retaining element hinged on the hinge axis and respectively attached to the first hinge member and the second hinge member; and a first biasing device and a second biasing device respectively engageable with the first elongated arm and the second elongated arm, wherein the first elongated arm and the second elongated arm respectively extend into the first hinge member and the second hinge member; and wherein the first biasing device and the second biasing device engage the central element to resist relative movement of the first hinge member and the second hinge member about the hinge axis.

[0034] Advantages of some embodiments of the invention include the ability to provide variable and adjustable resistance hinges to limit movement and / or provide resistance between two or more hinged components. By providing a biasing device for the engagement center arm, the angle and range of motion of the hinge system can be adjusted to replicate angle measurements and movement restrictions recorded from a human body, such as those of the arms, neck, torso, hips, or legs, in a human model.

[0035] The central element, rotating on the hinge axis, also experiences no unnecessary friction, while the retaining elements are positioned around the same hinge axis, thus keeping two or more hinged parts connected. When the biasing device engages the elongated arm of the central element, the hinge can be adjusted to increase resistance without increasing joint friction.

[0036] Those skilled in the art will understand that not all of the above advantages must be included in all embodiments of the present invention.

[0037] Figure 1This is an exploded view of an adjustable resistance hinge system 100 for a joint. In one form, though not necessarily the most widespread, the invention relates to an adjustable resistance hinge system 100 for a joint connecting at least a first hinge member and a second hinge member (not shown) of a human body model. The hinge system 100 includes a central element 105 defining a hinge axis 110, and the central element 105 includes a first elongated arm and a second elongated arm 115, 120, each elongated arm 115, 120 extending away from the hinge axis 110. A first retaining element and a second retaining element 125, 130, hinged on the hinge axis 110, are respectively attached to the first hinge member and the second hinge member. Furthermore, a first biasing device and a second biasing device 135, 140 can engage with the first elongated arm and the second elongated arm 115, 120, respectively, wherein the first elongated arm and the second elongated arm 115, 120 extend into the first hinge member and the second hinge member, respectively. The first biasing device and the second biasing device 135, 140 engage the central element 105 to resist the relative movement of the first hinge component and the second hinge component around the hinge axis 110.

[0038] In a preferred embodiment, the hinge system 100 further includes a third retaining element and fourth retaining elements 145 and 150, wherein the third retaining element and the fourth retaining element 145 and 150 extend into and are attached to the first hinge member and the second hinge member, respectively. More preferably, each of the four retaining elements 125, 130, 145, and 150 includes an elongated body extending away from the hinge axis 110. Thereby, the retaining elements 125, 130, 145, and 150 extend away from the hinge axis 110 and are configured to rotate or pivot on the hinge axis 110.

[0039] Retaining elements 125, 130, 145, and 150 are configured to be securely wound within the first and second hinge members, whereby the first and second hinge members rotate or pivot on the hinge axis 110. Optionally, each of the retaining elements 125, 130, 145, and 150 includes one or more fixing elements 155 positioned at the distal end of an elongated section extending away from the hinge axis 110. Further optionally, one or more fixing elements 155 may be pin features extending perpendicular to the elongated sections of the retaining elements 125, 130, 145, and 150, such that the retaining elements 125, 130, 145, and 150 are captured by corresponding positioning features in the first and second hinge members. Those skilled in the art will understand that any suitable mechanism or mating feature may be implemented to allow each hinge member to securely capture its respective retaining element 125, 130, 145, and 150.

[0040] In a preferred embodiment, the hinge system 100 further includes a third biasing device and a fourth biasing device 160, 165, wherein the third biasing device and the fourth biasing device 160, 165 respectively engage the first elongated arm and the second elongated arm 115, 120; and wherein the third biasing device and the fourth biasing device 160, 165 are positioned relative to the first biasing device and the second biasing device 135, 140. The biasing devices 135, 140, 160, 165 engage the elongated arms 115, 120 and restrict the movement of the central element 105, thereby providing resistance by pushing the ends of the elongated arms 115, 120 when the joint is bent and undergoes flexion or extension. More preferably, the first elongated arm and the second elongated arm 115, 120 each include a respective distal end extending away from the hinge axis 110, and each of these distal ends defines a mating surface where the respective biasing devices 135, 140, 160, 165 engage with the respective elongated member 115, 120.

[0041] In a preferred embodiment, the central element 105 and retaining elements 125, 130, 145, 150 pivot on a hinge axis 110 defined by the retaining screw 170. Optionally, the central element 105 and retaining elements 125, 130, 145, 150 are connected to the retaining screw 170 via a sleeve 175 and offset along the axis 110 by a washer 180 and an offset spacer 176. The sleeve 175 is adapted to fit around the retaining screw 170 and within a cavity on the central element 105 and retaining elements 125, 130, 145, 150. The central element 105 and retaining elements 125, 130, 145, 150 are rotatable freely on the sleeve 175 above the retaining screw 170.

[0042] Preferably, retaining elements 125, 130, 145, 150 are spaced apart from the central element 105 via offset spacers 176 having a diameter larger than that of the sheath tube 175. Those skilled in the art will understand that alternative methods of mechanical fastening can be used to retain the central element 105 and to properly align and space the retaining elements 125, 130, 145, 150 along the hinge axis 110. The use of washers, bearings, and sheaths also helps to reduce undesirable friction. Preferably, the hinge system 100 is pre-assembled for insertion into the joint between two hinged components. Each washer 180, sheath 175, offset spacer 176, retaining elements 125, 130, 145, 150, and center element 105 can be stacked onto retaining screw 170, wherein the sheath 175 acts as a bearing for retaining elements 125, 130, 145, 150, and center element 105, and the offset spacer 176 provides a consistent offset distance for the components along hinge axis 110. Assembly of hinge system 100 can be completed by nut 199, which tightly clamps all washers 180, sheath 175, and offset spacer 176 together, wherein retaining elements 125, 130, 145, 150, and center element 105 are free to rotate.

[0043] In a preferred embodiment, any one of the biasing devices 135, 140, 160, and 165 includes a retaining fastener 185, a compression spring 190, and an engagement spacer 195. More preferably, the compression spring 190 causes the engagement spacer 195 to engage the center element 105, the retaining fastener 185 captures the compression spring 190, and the retaining fastener 185 is adjustable. Adjustment of the retaining fastener 185 adjusts and loads the pre-compression of the spacer 195 engaging the center element 105 by the compression spring 190. Preferably, when the assembly of the hinge system 100 is enclosed within the hinge member, the engagement spacer 195 rests against the elongated portions 115 and 120 of the center element 105. When the joint flexes or extends, the center element 105 oscillates on the hinge axis 110, and the elongated portions 115 and 120 push against the engagement spacer 195 to compress the compression spring 190 held in place by the retaining fastener 185.

[0044] Figure 2 It is by Figure 1 An exploded view of three components (such as human model elements representing segments of the human torso) connected by the adjustable resistance hinge system 100. Figure 2 The first and second hinge components connected by the adjustable resistance hinge system 100 are shown. Additionally, a third angled hinge component is also shown as an example of a series of hinge components connected by the hinge system 100.

[0045] In a preferred embodiment, each hinge component includes two housing halves. A first hinge component top housing 200 and a first hinge component bottom housing 205, and a second hinge component top housing 210 and a second hinge component bottom housing 215 enclose the hinge system 100. The housings 200, 205, 210, and 215 capture the hinge system 100 and are held together by fasteners 220 (optionally machine screws). The housings 200, 205, 210, and 215 may be a solid material having receiving features and cutouts shaped to receive the hinge system 100, as well as receiving features for any components intended to manipulate the characteristics of the hinge components (including components for increasing the weight of the hinge components).

[0046] In a preferred embodiment, housings 200, 205, 210, and 215 define a central element receiving feature 225 for receiving the central element 105. When the central element 105 is in the form of a flat rod, the central element receiving feature 225 may take the form of a slotted cavity, thereby allowing the central element 105 to rock and pivot on the hinge axis 110 and move freely within and between the two hinged members. As previously mentioned, the movement of the central element 105 is resisted by biasing devices 135, 140, 160, and 165 that engage with the respective elongated members 115 and 120.

[0047] Preferably, each housing 200, 205, 210, 215 includes at least one aperture 230 configured to receive biasing devices 135, 140, 160, 165 inserted from the outside into the aperture 230. The aperture 230 is sized to receive the biasing devices 135, 140, 160, 165 and includes internal threads to engage and receive retaining fasteners 185 of the biasing devices 135, 140, 160, 165. The uniform size of the compression spring 165 allows springs of varying strengths to be fitted into the same aperture 230, thereby allowing the springs free movement and compression, further fine-tuning achieved by advancing or retracting the retaining fastener 185. The preload compression and resistance strength of the captured spring 190 can also be varied by using spacers 195 of varying heights. Those skilled in the art will also understand that similar overall dimensions of the compression spring 165 can be maintained while providing different compression strengths by varying the wire diameter and / or coil spacing.

[0048] like Figure 2 As shown, housings 200, 205, 210, and 215 include further features that facilitate attachment of the hinge system 100 to each hinge member. By way of example, a cross passage 235 is sized to receive a retaining element 155. The hinge members may then be attached using a further hinge system 100, which may optionally be angled in different directions. Those skilled in the art will understand that the shape of the hinge members can be determined by the intended use of the hinge or the anatomy of the human model.

[0049] In a preferred embodiment, the articulation component is a part of the mannequin. Therefore, the plurality of biasing devices 135, 140, 160, 165 can be adjusted to reflect the constraints of the articulated human joint. These constraints can be set to mimic the flexion and extension of a human joint constrained by ligaments, muscles, or skeletal structures. More preferably, the mannequin can be attached to a measuring device or a frame supporting the mannequin. Therefore, the articulation component can further include a suspension rope 240 configured to suspend or otherwise support the mannequin. Measurement data of the mannequin can also be collected by determining the positioning or positional changes of the joint position represented by the hinge axis 110 of each hinge device 100. Therefore, the central element can further include a measuring rope 245 configured to be attached to the measuring device. The articulation component may optionally further include a groove, through-hole 250, or cutout 255 to receive the suspension rope 240 and / or the measuring rope 245. Optionally, the measuring rope 245 is a string potentiometer.

[0050] Figure 3 This is an exploded view of the hip joint of a mannequin linked by one of further embodiments of the adjustable resistance hinge system 100 for joints. While the arms, legs, and spine of the mannequin can be a series of linear, continuous hinged components, the hip joint typically requires both hinged and rotational movements. In a preferred embodiment, the second hinge component 310 further includes a swivel ring 300 that defines a rotation axis 305 perpendicular to the hinge axis 110. The second hinge component 310 may also be shaped into a circular body to further connect to and receive third and fourth hinge components 315, 320. The third and fourth hinge components 315, 320 may be shaped to represent the thigh of the mannequin and configured to rotate about the rotation axis 305 of the second hinge component 310, which is formed as a circular central assembly.

[0051] Therefore, the hip joint of the mannequin can utilize hinge system 100 to provide an adjustable hinge that rotates and laterally hinges on the axis of rotation 305. A first hinge member (not shown) represents the lower torso of the mannequin. This allows the mannequin to replicate the complex combination of movements found in the human hip and lower spine. The resistance to both the hinge and rotational movements of the joint can be adjusted using the same biasing devices 135, 140, 160, 165 to provide resistance-adjustable motion. Similarly, rotational resistance can be adjusted by biasing devices 135, 140, 160, 165 inserted externally into aperture 230, found on the left and right thighs, represented by the third and fourth hinge members 315, 320. Thicker hinge members (such as those representing the thighs of the mannequin) can use longer engagement spacers 195 to cover additional distance and space. These biasing devices 135, 140, 160, 165 can be similarly adjusted to provide an increase or decrease in tension on the center element 105 or other mating surfaces on the second hinge member 310.

[0052] As mentioned, the housing of the hinge component may be a solid material having receiving features and cutouts configured to receive the hinge system 100, as well as receiving features for any component (such as weight 325) intended to manipulate the properties of the hinge component.

[0053] Therefore, hinge system 100 addresses at least some of the aforementioned problems of prior art, thereby providing an adjustable resistance hinge system 100 that allows adjustment of two connecting components to replicate human physiology, thus allowing for accurate assessment of joint and specific bone and spinal angles. By providing a hinge system that does not increase resistance through the application of friction, the hinge allows for fine movement of the mannequin, especially when the mannequin stabilizes over time in testing environments including soft surfaces (such as mattresses on beds). Therefore, hinge system 100 provides a useful commercial alternative to current state-of-the-art technology, offering a frictionless, adjustable variable resistance hinge.

[0054] In this application specification, adjectives such as first and second, left and right, top and bottom, up and down, above and below, back, front and side are used only to define one element or method step with another element or method step, and do not necessarily require a specific relative position or sequence described by such adjectives. Words such as "comprising" or "including" are not used to define an exclusive group of elements or method steps. In fact, such words define only the smallest number of elements or method steps contained in a specific embodiment of the invention.

[0055] The foregoing description of various embodiments of the present invention is provided to those skilled in the art for illustrative purposes. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to a single disclosed embodiment. Those skilled in the art will appreciate many alternatives and variations of the invention. Therefore, while some alternative embodiments have been specifically discussed, other embodiments will be obvious or readily developed by those skilled in the art. Accordingly, this specification is intended to cover all alternatives, modifications, and variations of the invention discussed herein, as well as other embodiments falling within the scope of the invention described above, as defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. An adjustable resistance hinge system for connecting a joint of at least a first hinge member and a second hinge member, the hinge system comprising: A central element that defines a hinge axis, the central element including a first elongated arm and a second elongated arm, each elongated arm extending away from the hinge axis; A first retaining element and a second retaining element are hinged on the hinge axis and respectively attached to the first hinge component and the second hinge component; as well as The first biasing device and the second biasing device are respectively capable of engaging with the first elongated arm and the second elongated arm; The first elongated arm and the second elongated arm extend into the first hinge component and the second hinge component, respectively. The first biasing device and the second biasing device engage the central element to resist relative movement of the first hinge member and the second hinge member about the hinge axis; and The resistance of the hinge system can be adjusted by adjusting the pre-compression of the first biasing device or the second biasing device.

2. The hinge system according to claim 1, further comprising a third retaining element and a fourth retaining element, wherein, The third retaining element and the fourth retaining element extend into and are attached to the first hinge member and the second hinge member, respectively.

3. The hinge system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein, Any of the retaining elements includes an elongated shape extending away from the hinge axis.

4. The hinge system according to claim 3, wherein, Each of the retaining elements includes one or more fixing elements positioned at the distal end of the elongated body extending away from the hinge axis.

5. The hinge system according to claim 4, wherein, The one or more fixing elements are one or more horizontal pins that protrude perpendicularly to the elongated body.

6. The hinge system according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a third biasing device and a fourth biasing device; in, The third biasing device and the fourth biasing device are respectively engaged with the first elongated arm and the second elongated arm; as well as The third biasing device and the fourth biasing device are respectively positioned relative to the first biasing device and the second biasing device.

7. The hinge system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, Each of the first elongated arm and the second elongated arm includes a corresponding distal end extending away from the hinge axis, and each of the distal ends defines an engagement surface for each biasing device to engage with each corresponding elongated component.

8. The hinge system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, Any of the biasing devices includes: Keep the fasteners in place; Compression springs; and Joint spacer.

9. The hinge system according to claim 8, wherein: The compression spring causes the engagement spacer to engage the central element; The retaining fastener captures the compression spring; The retaining fastener is adjustable; as well as The adjustment of the retaining fastener adjusts the pre-compression of the compression spring on the spacer that engages the central element.

10. The hinge system according to claim 8, wherein, The retaining fastener is a flathead screw.

11. The hinge system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, Each of the first hinge component and the second hinge component includes at least one aperture for inserting and adjusting one of the biasing devices.

12. The hinge system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The retaining element is separated from the central element.

13. The hinge system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, Each of the first hinge component and the second hinge component is formed by two housing halves.

14. The hinge system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The first hinge component and the second hinge component enclose the hinge system.

15. The hinge system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The first hinge component and the second hinge component are components of the human body model.

16. The hinge system according to claim 15, wherein, Multiple biasing devices can be adjusted to reflect the limitations of articulated human joints.

17. The hinge system according to claim 15, wherein, Either the first hinge component or the second hinge component further includes a suspension rope configured to suspend the mannequin.

18. The hinge system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The central element further includes a measuring rope configured to attach to the measuring device.

19. The hinge system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The second hinge component further includes a swivel ring that defines a rotation axis perpendicular to the hinge axis.

20. The hinge system according to claim 19, wherein, The second hinge component is further connected to a third hinge component and a fourth hinge component, which are configured to rotate about the axis of rotation.

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