Auxiliary device for holding a heavy device

DE202024106502U1Active Publication Date: 2025-03-06JAYARAMAN JAYAPRABAKAR DR VELLORE +1
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Patent Information

Application Number
DE202024106502
Authority / Receiving Office
DE · DE
Patent Type
Utility models
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2024-11-11
Publication Date
2025-03-06
Estimated Expiration
2034-11-30

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Abstract

An auxiliary device for holding heavy equipment, comprising: i) a rectangular platform 101 configured with a pair of straps 103 worn over the shoulder area of ​​a user to position the platform 101 over the back area of ​​the user, a motorized roller 102 being installed with each of the straps to rotate around the axis to wrap around the straps 103 and secure the platform 101 to the back area of ​​the user; ii) an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 104, installed above the platform 101 and integrated with a processor for capturing and processing images of the user, wherein a microcontroller connected to the processor determines the user's height based on the captured images, whereupon the microcontroller actuates a vertical hydraulic rod 105, installed above the apex of the platform 101, to extend a motorized shaft configured with the rod 105 and position it above the user at a predefined distance in accordance with the captured height; iii) a microphone installed above the platform 101 to receive a voice command from the user requesting assistance in grasping a heavy device, wherein, based on the user input, the microcontroller actuates a horizontal hydraulic rod 106 installed at the end of the rod 105 to extend and position a motorized roller configured with the rod 106 in front of the user; iv) a proximity sensor installed above the rod 106 to monitor the distance of the user's hands from the rod 106, whereupon the microcontroller actuates the shaft and pulley to rotate in a predefined direction in order to unwind a rope that is wound around the shaft and stretched over the pulley; v) a retractable ring 107 configured such that the free end of the rope is positioned in front of the user after the rope has been unwound, the user accessing the ring 107 to insert the device into the ring 107, followed by actuation of a motorized drawer assembly installed in the ring 107 to retract the ring 107 to grasp the device in a secure manner; vi) a pair of L-shaped hydraulic rods installed on the sides of platform 101 and actuated by the microcontroller to extend and position a motorized gripper installed with each end of the rod under the user's arms, the microcontroller, when positioning the grippers, actuating the grippers to grasp the user's arms to support the user's arm while operating the gadget; vii) a tension sensor installed above the rope to monitor the tension exerted on the rope by the device, wherein, if the monitored tension exceeds a threshold, the microcontroller determines the falling state of the device and accordingly actuates the shaft and pulley to rotate in the opposite direction to wind up the rope, resulting in the device being lifted and preventing a collision of the device; viii) a transparent film configured with the rod 106 by means of a linear actuator which is actuated by the microcontroller upon detection of the device falling, in order to unfold the film in front of the user to protect the user from any impact of the device; and ix) a plurality of inverted L-shaped hydraulic links installed with the lower part of the platform 101 and actuated by the microcontroller to extend and position a suction cup configured with each of the links in contact with the surface of the ground, wherein an inclination sensor is installed above the platform 101 to monitor the inclination angle of the platform 101, and if the monitored angle does not match a threshold angle, the microcontroller actuates a specific link to extend and position the corresponding suction cup above the surface to support the platform 101 and prevent the platform 101 from tipping over.
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Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to an auxiliary device for holding a heavy device, which is capable of assisting a user in safely holding a heavy device and supporting the user's arm when operating the device. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Lifting and holding heavy objects typically refers to the ability or mechanism to safely support or carry heavy electronic devices or gadgets. It essentially refers to a stand, bracket, or support system designed to hold and stabilize large or heavy equipment such as monitors, projectors, or professional cameras. Human labor has been predominantly used for lifting and holding electronic devices. Techniques such as pulleys and levers have been employed to reduce the effort required, but manual lifting is physically demanding and can lead to serious injuries and strains.

[0003] With the advent of technology, hydraulic systems became important for lifting heavy loads. Hydraulic lifting platforms and jacks enabled controlled lifting using fluid pressure. Hydraulic systems require regular maintenance, are prone to leaks, and can be costly to install and operate. Robotic and automated lifting systems have been developed, equipped with specialized grippers that can lift heavy loads with precision and efficiency. Robotics and automation require sophisticated programming and maintenance. Initial setup costs are very high, and they are not suitable for all environments or applications.

[0004] US20110011906A1 discloses a device holder for releasably holding a mobile phone, an iPod, or other similar device on a user's clothing, belt, or purse. The device holder preferably comprises a clip, a D-ring, and a padlock clasp, the D-ring connecting the clip to the padlock clasp, allowing the D-ring to rotate relative to the clip and the padlock clasp, and a locking clip for rotating and sliding relative to the D-ring. This configuration releasably holds a device and allows for easy one-handed release from the device holder. Thus, the device holder is a slim, low-profile, lightweight, fashionable, and ultimately unobtrusive way to comfortably carry a mobile phone, music player, or other device on a person.While US'906 discloses a device holding device for attaching a mobile phone, iPod, or similar device to the user's clothing, belt, or handbag, it is unable to detect the drop state of the heavy device and automatically provide a means of protecting the device from damage caused by the impact.

[0005] Conventionally, there are many devices that are capable of holding heavy equipment, but they are not capable of analyzing the falling state of the heavy equipment and protecting the equipment from damage.

[0006] To overcome the above-mentioned disadvantages, there is a need in the art to develop a device capable of holding heavy equipment, determining the fall status of the heavy equipment, and protecting the equipment from damage. Furthermore, the developed device should also be capable of informing the user of a faulty device status through voice commands. SUBJECT OF THE INVENTION

[0007] The main object of the present invention is to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art.

[0008] An object of the present invention is to develop a device capable of assisting a user in securely holding a heavy-weight device and supporting the user's arm when operating the device.

[0009] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device capable of detecting the falling condition of the heavy equipment and automatically providing a means for protecting the equipment from damage caused by the impact.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device capable of monitoring the vibrations acting on the device when the device is in operating mode and notifying the user of a faulty condition of the device through voice commands when the monitored vibrations exceed a preset limit.

[0011] The foregoing and other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent upon closer examination of the following detailed description of the preferred embodiment as illustrated in the accompanying drawings. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0012] The present invention relates to an auxiliary device for holding a heavy device, which is capable of safely assisting a user in holding a heavy device while supporting the user's arm while operating the device. Furthermore, the proposed device is also capable of analyzing the falling state of the heavy device and automatically protecting the device from damage due to the impact.

[0013] According to one embodiment of the present invention, an auxiliary device for supporting a heavy equipment comprises a rectangular platform configured with a pair of straps worn over the shoulder area of ​​a user to position the platform over the user's back area, a motorized pulley installed with each of the straps to rotate around the axis with respect to wrapping the straps and securing the platform to the user's back area, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit installed above the platform to capture images of the user and determine the user's height, a vertical hydraulic rod installed above the apex of the platform to extend and position a motorized shaft configured with the rod above the user at a predefined distance in accordance with the detected height,A microphone installed above the platform to receive a user's voice command to control assistance in grasping a heavy device. A horizontal hydraulic rod installed at the end of the rod to extend and position a motorized pulley configured with the rod in front of the user. A proximity sensor installed above the rod to monitor the distance of the user's hands from the rod. An extendable ring configured to position the free end of the rope in front of the user after the rope has been unwound. A motorized drawer assembly installed in the ring to contract the ring in a secured manner for grasping the device. A pair of L-shaped hydraulic rods installed over lateral sides of the platform to extend and position a motorized gripper.which is installed with each end of the rod under the user's arms, a tension sensor installed above the rope to monitor the tension exerted on the rope by the device, and a transparent film configured with the rod by means of a linear actuator to unfold the film in front of the user to protect the user from any impact of the device.

[0014] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the proposed device further comprises a plurality of inverted L-shaped hydraulic connections installed with the lower part of the platform to extend and position a suction cup configured with each of the connections in contact with the ground surface, an inclination sensor installed above the platform to monitor the inclination angle of the platform, a specific connection to extend and position the corresponding suction cup above the surface to support the platform and prevent the platform from tipping, a pressure sensor installed above each of the straps to monitor the pressure exerted by the straps on the user, a motorized hinge joint installed between the rod and the rod to regulate the angle of the rod, a vibration sensor,which is installed above the bar and pole to monitor the vibrations that occur during operation of the device, a loudspeaker installed above the platform to generate a voice command to inform the user of a faulty condition of the device, an EMG (electromyography) sensor is mounted above the platform to monitor the electrical activity of the user's muscles, a Kinect sensor is mounted above the platform and synchronized with the imaging unit to monitor the user's hand movements, and a battery is connected to the device to power the electrical and electronically operated components of the device.

[0015] While the invention has been described and shown with particular reference to the preferred embodiment, it will be apparent that variations are possible which would fall within the scope of the present invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING

[0016] These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will be better understood from the following description, the appended claims and the accompanying drawings, in which: Fig. 1 shows an isometric view of an auxiliary device for holding a heavy device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0017] The following description contains the preferred best mode for carrying out an embodiment of the present invention. It will be apparent from this description of the invention that the invention is not limited to the illustrated embodiments, but that the invention also includes a variety of modifications and embodiments thereto. Therefore, the present description should be considered as illustrative and not restrictive. While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, it should be understood that there is no intention to limit the invention to the specific form disclosed, but on the contrary, the invention is intended to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the claims.

[0018] In any embodiment described herein, the open-ended terms “comprising,” “comprises,” and the like (which are synonymous with “including,” “with,” and “characterized by”) may be replaced by the respective partially closed terms “consists essentially of,” “consists essentially of,” and the like, or the respective closed terms “consists of,” “consists of,” and the like.

[0019] As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” refer to both the singular and the plural unless expressly stated to refer only to the singular.

[0020] The present invention relates to an auxiliary device for holding a heavy machine, capable of providing a means to safely assist a user in holding a heavy machine and supporting the user's arm while operating the machine. Furthermore, the proposed device is also capable of monitoring the vibrations acting on the machine when the machine is in operation and informing the user of a faulty state of the machine through voice commands if the monitored vibrations exceed a preset limit.

[0021] Referring to Fig.1 is an isometric view of an auxiliary device for holding heavy equipment, comprising a rectangular platform 101 with a pair of straps 103, a motorized pulley 102 installed with each of the straps 103, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 104 installed above the platform 101, a vertical hydraulic rod 105 installed above the apex portion of the platform 101, a horizontal hydraulic rod 106 installed with the end of the rod 105, and an extendable ring 107 configured with the free end of the rope.

[0022] The development device disclosed herein comprises a rectangular platform 101 configured with a pair of straps 103 worn by a user over his or her shoulder portion, with a motorized pulley 102 installed with each of the straps actuated by a built-in microcontroller to rotate about the axis with a view to wrapping the straps 103 to secure the platform 101 to the user's back portion.

[0023] The motorized pulley 102 is a mechanical unit that can rotate about its axis with the help of an integrated electric motor. The cylindrical pulley 102 is a tube that serves as a support and winding surface for the straps 103. The motorized pulley 102 is equipped with an electric motor that provides the rotational force required to rotate the pulley 102. The motor is connected to the tube of the pulley 102 by a drive mechanism that includes gears and belts to transfer the rotational force of the motor to the pulley 102, causing it to rotate and wrap the straps 103, thus securing the platform 101 to the user's back.

[0024] After the straps 103 have been wrapped around the user's back, the microcontroller controls an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 104, installed above the platform 101, to capture images of the user and determine the user's height. The artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 104 is constructed with a camera lens and a processor, the camera lens being capable of capturing a series of images of the user. The processor performs a series of image processing operations, including preprocessing, feature extraction, and classification.

[0025] The image captured by the imaging unit 104 is a real-time image of the user. The artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 104 transmits the captured image signal in the form of digital bits to the microcontroller. Upon receiving the image signals, the microcontroller compares the received image signal with the pre-entered data stored in a database and continuously determines the user's height.

[0026] Based on the user's measured height, the microcontroller actuates a vertical hydraulic rod 105 installed above the apex of the platform 101 to extend and position a motorized shaft configured with the rod 105 above the user at a predefined distance in accordance with the measured height. The rod 105 is connected to a hydraulic unit consisting of an oil compressor, cylinders, oil valves, and pistons that work together to extend / retract the rod 105. The oil compressor pressurizes the hydraulic fluid to generate the necessary force to operate the hydraulic unit.

[0027] The hydraulic cylinders convert the energy of the pressurized hydraulic fluid into linear motion. As the fluid enters the cylinder, it pushes against a piston inside, extending and retracting the rod 105 connected to the piston. Oil valves regulate the flow of hydraulic fluid within the hydraulic power unit and control the extension and retraction of the rod 105. The piston located in the hydraulic cylinder is directly connected to the mast 105. As the pressurized fluid enters the cylinder, it pushes against the piston, causing the connected rod 105 to extend to position the motorized shaft at a predefined distance according to the detected height above the user.

[0028] After positioning the shaft above the user at a predefined distance, the microcontroller activates a microphone installed above platform 101 to receive voice commands from the user requesting assistance in grasping a heavy object. The microphone plays a crucial role by converting spoken words or commands into electrical signals, which are then processed and analyzed to trigger specific actions. When the user speaks or requests assistance in grasping a heavy object, their vocal cords vibrate, generating sound waves. These sound waves propagate through the air in the form of air pressure fluctuations.

[0029] The microphone mentioned here is a transducer that converts these air pressure fluctuations into electrical signals. The analog electrical signal is converted into a digital form using an analog-to-digital converter (ADC). The digital signal is then subjected to various signal processing techniques to improve voice quality and eliminate noise. Based on user input, the microcontroller actuates a horizontal hydraulic rod 106 installed at the end of rod 105 to extend a motorized roller configured with rod 106 and position it in front of the user. Rod 106 is connected to a hydraulic unit that includes an oil compressor, cylinders, oil valves, and pistons that work together to extend / retract rod 106 to position the roller in front of the user.

[0030] After positioning the rod 106 in front of the user, the microcontroller actuates a proximity sensor installed above the rod 106 to monitor the distance of the user's hands from the rod 106. The proximity sensor used here is preferably an ultrasonic proximity sensor, which uses ultrasonic waves to detect the distance of the user's hands from the rod 106. The ultrasonic proximity sensor typically emits ultrasonic waves toward the user's hand, and when the user's hands are near the rod 106, the ultrasonic waves strike the user's hands and bounce back to the sensor's receiver.

[0031] The receiver of the ultrasonic proximity sensor is sensitive to the emitted ultrasonic waves and listens for the reflected waves. When the emitted ultrasonic waves are received by the receiver, the proximity sensor sends the data to the microcontroller, which processes and analyzes the acquired data to determine the distance of the user's hands from the bar 106. Based on the detected distance of the user's hands from the bar 106, the microcontroller causes the shaft and pulley to rotate in a predefined direction to unwind a rope wrapped around the shaft and tensioned over the pulley.

[0032] After unwinding the rope, an extendable ring 107 configured with the free end of the rope is positioned in front of the user, allowing the user to access the ring 107 to insert the device into the ring 107. Furthermore, the microcontroller actuates a motorized drawer assembly installed in the ring 107 to contract the ring 107 toward grasping the gadget.

[0033] The drawer assembly consists of a drawer that typically slides on rails inside the ring 107. These rails provide a smooth and stable path for the retraction of the ring 107. As the motor rotates, the drawer moves either outward or inward along the slide rails. This contraction causes the ring 107 to shrink in size, helping to grip the device. At the same time, the microcontroller actuates a pair of L-shaped hydraulic rods attached to the sides of the platform 101 to extend and position a motorized gripper attached to each end of the rod under the user's arms.

[0034] The rods are connected to a hydraulic unit consisting of an oil compressor, cylinders, oil valves, and pistons that work together to extend / retract the rods and position the gripper under the user's arms. Once the grippers are positioned, the microcontroller actuates the grippers to grip the user's arms and assist the user's arm in operating the device.

[0035] Grippers typically consist of two opposing arms or fingers that mimic the grasping motion of a human hand. These arms are usually constructed of durable materials such as metal or plastic to provide strength and flexibility. The robotic gripper is equipped with springs that grip the user's arms. Electric motors and servo motors are used to control the gripper's movement. These motors provide the necessary power and precision to manipulate and position the corn. The motors are connected to the gripper arms by an arrangement of gears and linkages that allow for controlled gripping of the arms, thus assisting the user's arm in operating the device.

[0036] After grasping the user's arms, the microcontroller actuates a tension sensor installed above the rope to monitor the tension exerted on the rope by the device. The tension sensor uses a strain gauge array that measures the force or tension applied to the rope. When a force or tension is applied to the rope, it also exerts a force on the tension sensor. This force causes the strain gauge to deform, resulting in a change in electrical resistance. The change in resistance is directly proportional to the magnitude of the force applied to the rope. The microcontroller continuously monitors the data from the tension sensor and compares the measured rope tension with the set target tension.If the tension exceeds the desired value, the microcontroller detects that the device has fallen and causes the shaft and pulley to rotate in the opposite direction to wind up the rope, which lifts the device and prevents a collision.

[0037] Additionally, a transparent film is connected to rod 106 via a linear actuator, which is actuated by the microcontroller upon detection of a drop of the device, deploying the film in front of the user to protect the user from impact by the device. The linear actuator consists of a motor, a lead screw, and a nut. When activated by the microcontroller, the motor generates a rotational force, which is then converted into linear motion by the interaction between the lead screw and the nut. The lead screw, driven by the motor, rotates and causes the nut to move along its thread. This motion pushes or pulls the connected device, applying pressure to the desired rivet. As the actuator extends, it exerts the necessary force to remove the rivet, effectively dropping the device.

[0038] After releasing the device from falling, the microcontroller actuates several inverted L-shaped hydraulic links installed in the lower part of platform 101 to extend and position a suction cup, each of which is in contact with the ground surface. The links are connected to a hydraulic unit comprising an oil compressor, cylinders, oil valves, and pistons that work together to extend / retract the links and bring the suction cup into contact with the ground surface.

[0039] The microcontroller controls an inclination sensor installed above the platform 101 to monitor the inclination angle of the platform 101. The inclination sensor used here is preferably an optical angle sensor that uses light beams and optical detectors to measure changes in light reflection or transmission caused by the angle of the platform 101. As the angle changes, the amount of reflected or transmitted light varies, allowing the sensor to calculate the angle. The angle sensor provides an output signal representing the detected angle of the platform 101.

[0040] If the monitored angle does not match a threshold angle, the microcontroller actuates a specific link to extend the corresponding suction cup and position it above the surface to support the platform 101 and prevent the platform 101 from tipping. The link is connected to a hydraulic unit that includes an oil compressor, cylinders, oil valves, and pistons that work together to extend / retract the link.

[0041] The microcontroller also controls a pressure sensor installed above each of the straps 103 to monitor the pressure exerted by the straps 103 on the user. The pressure sensor contains a piezoelectric material that generates a voltage in response to mechanical stress. When pressure is exerted on the user by the straps 103, the piezoelectric material deforms. The pressure exerted on the user by the straps 103 deforms the material and generates a voltage. This strain results in the generation of an electrical charge through the material, which produces a voltage signal proportional to the applied pressure. The generated voltage is typically very small, so the signal is amplified to make it suitable for further processing. The microcontroller continuously monitors the pressure sensor data.When the pressure applied to the user exceeds the optimal pressure value, the microcontroller operates the roller 102s to unwind the tape to regulate the pressure applied.

[0042] Additionally, the microcontroller controls a vibration sensor installed above rod 105 and rod 106 to monitor the vibrations occurring during device operation. If the monitored vibrations exceed a threshold, the microcontroller controls a speaker installed above platform 101 to generate a voice command informing the user of the device's faulty state. The speaker is capable of producing a clear and natural sound and adjusting its volume to ambient noise. The speaker consists of audio information generated or stored as digital data in the form of recorded voice, synthesized voice, or other sounds.

[0043] This data is often in the form of an audio file. The digital audio data is sent to a digital-to-analog converter (DAC). The DAC converts the digital data into analog electrical signals. The analog signal is often weak and needs to be amplified. An amplifier increases the signal strength to a level that the speaker can effectively drive. The amplified audio signal is then passed to the speaker. The heart of the speaker is an electromagnet attached to a flexible cone. These sound waves travel through the air as pressure waves and are picked up by the user's ear.

[0044] At the same time, the microcontroller activates an EMG (electromyography) sensor installed above platform 101 to monitor the electrical activity of the user's muscles. EMG, or electromyography, is a technique for monitoring the electrical activity of muscles. It involves placing small electrodes on the skin or inserting fine needle electrodes into the muscles. These electrodes record the electrical signals generated by the muscle fibers during contraction and relaxation. When a muscle contracts, it generates electrical impulses that are measured by the EMG. The electrodes pick up these signals and convert them into visual or auditory data, which is analyzed by a microcontroller.

[0045] If the electrical activity of the muscles deviates from a threshold, the microcontroller activates the loudspeaker to inform the user of the detected abnormal electrical activity of the muscles and takes the necessary action. At the same time, a Kinect sensor is mounted above the platform 101 and synchronized with the imaging unit 104, which is controlled by the microcontroller to monitor the user's hand gestures.

[0046] The Kinect sensor uses a combination of cameras and depth sensors to monitor the user's hand movements. It captures the user's body movements and translates them into digital data that can be interpreted by the microcontroller. The sensor emits infrared light and measures the time it takes for the light to bounce back after hitting objects in the environment. This allows the sensor to create a depth map that provides information about the distance of objects to the sensor. To monitor hand gestures, the Kinect sensor tracks the position and movement of the user's joints in real time. It detects the shape and orientation of the hand, as well as the movement of each finger. This information is then evaluated by the microcontroller. Based on the detected hand gestures, the microcontroller controls the device accordingly.

[0047] A battery is connected to the device to power the electrically powered components used within it. The battery consists of a pair of electrodes called the cathode and anode. The battery uses a chemical reaction of oxidation / reduction to perform work on the charge and generate a voltage between its anode and cathode, thus generating electrical energy, which is used to perform work in the device.

[0048] The present invention works well in the following manner, where the proposed device comprises the rectangular platform 101 with the pair of straps 103 worn over the user's shoulder part to position the platform 101 over the user's back part, the motorized roller 102 to rotate on the axis with respect to the wrapping of the straps 103 and to fix the platform 101 to the user's back part, the artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 104 for acquiring images of the user to determine the user's height, the vertical hydraulic rod 105 for extending and positioning the motorized shaft configured with the rod 105 above the user at the predefined distance in accordance with the detected height, the microphone for the horizontal hydraulic rod 106 for extending and positioning the motorized gripper in front of the user,The proximity sensor monitors the distance of the user's hands from the rod 106. The extendable ring 107 is positioned in front of the user as the rope is unwound. The motorized drawer assembly contracts the ring 107 to grip the device securely. The pair of L-shaped hydraulic rods extends and positions the motorized gripper under the user's arms. The tension sensor monitors the tension exerted by the device on the rope. The transparent film, via the linear actuator, unfolds the film in front of the user to prevent the user from impacting the device. Furthermore, the device includes a plurality of inverted L-shaped hydraulic links for extending the suction cup and positioning it in contact with the ground surface. A sensor monitors the angle of inclination of the platform 101.The special connector for extending and positioning the corresponding suction cup above the surface to support the platform 101 and prevent it from tipping over. The pressure sensor for monitoring the pressure exerted on the user by the straps 103. The motorized hinge joint for regulating the angle of the rod 106. The vibration sensor for monitoring the vibrations that occur during the device's operation. The loudspeaker installed above the platform 101 generates a voice command that informs the user of a faulty device condition. The EMG (electromyography) sensor for monitoring the electrical activity of the user's muscles. The Kinect sensor for monitoring the user's hand movements. And the battery for powering the device's electrical and electronic components.

[0049] Although the field of the invention has been described herein with limited reference to specific embodiments, this description is not intended to be construed in a limiting sense. Various modifications of the disclosed embodiments, as well as alternative embodiments of the invention, will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the description of the invention. QUOTES CONTAINED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents submitted by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the convenience of the reader. This list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] US 20110011906A1

[0004]

Claims

[1] An auxiliary device for holding a heavy equipment, comprising: i) a rectangular platform 101 configured with a pair of straps 103 worn over the shoulder region of a user to position the platform 101 over the back region of the user, wherein a motorized pulley 102 is installed with each of the straps to rotate about the axis to wrap the straps 103 and secure the platform 101 to the back region of the user; ii) an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 104 installed above the platform 101 and integrated with a processor for capturing and processing images of the user, wherein a microcontroller connected to the processor determines the user's height based on the captured images, whereupon the microcontroller actuates a vertical hydraulic rod 105 installed above the apex of the platform 101 to extend a motorized shaft configured with the rod 105 and position it above the user at a predefined distance in accordance with the captured height; iii) a microphone installed above the platform 101 to receive a voice command from the user requesting assistance in grasping a heavy device, wherein the microcontroller, based on the user input, actuates a horizontal hydraulic rod 106 installed at the end of the rod 105 to extend and position a motorized roller configured with the rod 106 in front of the user; iv) a proximity sensor installed above the rod 106 to monitor the distance of the user's hands from the rod 106, whereupon the microcontroller actuates the shaft and the pulley to rotate in a predefined direction to unwind a rope wound around the shaft and stretched over the pulley; v) an extendable ring 107 configured such that the free end of the rope is positioned in front of the user after unwinding the rope, the user accessing the ring 107 to insert the device into the ring 107, followed by actuation of a motorized drawer assembly installed in the ring 107 to contract the ring 107 to grasp the device in a secured manner; vi) a pair of L-shaped hydraulic rods installed on the sides of the platform 101 and actuated by the microcontroller to extend and position a motorized gripper installed with each end of the rod under the user's arms, wherein, upon positioning the grippers, the microcontroller actuates the grippers to grasp the user's arms to support the user's arm while operating the gadget; vii) a tension sensor installed above the rope to monitor the tension exerted by the device on the rope, wherein, if the monitored tension exceeds a threshold, the microcontroller determines the falling state of the device and accordingly operates the shaft and the pulley to rotate in the opposite direction to wind up the rope, resulting in the lifting of the device and preventing a collision of the device; viii) a transparent film configured with the rod 106 by means of a linear actuator actuated by the microcontroller upon detection of the fall of the device to unfold the film in front of the user to protect the user from any impact of the device; and ix) a plurality of inverted L-shaped hydraulic links installed with the lower part of the platform 101 and actuated by the microcontroller to extend and position a suction cup configured with each of the links in contact with the surface of the ground, wherein an inclination sensor is installed above the platform 101 to monitor the inclination angle of the platform 101, and if the monitored angle does not match a threshold angle, the microcontroller actuates a specific link to extend and position the corresponding suction cup above the surface to support the platform 101 and prevent tipping of the platform 101. [2] The device of claim 1, wherein a pressure sensor is installed above each of the straps 103 to monitor the pressure exerted by the straps 103 on the user, and when the monitored pressure exceeds a threshold, the microcontroller actuates the reel 102s to unwind the strap to regulate the pressure exerted. [3] The device of claim 1, wherein a vibration sensor is installed above the rod 105 and the bar 106 to monitor vibrations occurring during operation of the device, and if the monitored vibrations exceed a threshold, the microcontroller activates a loudspeaker installed above the platform 101 to generate a voice command informing the user of a faulty condition of the device. [4] The device according to claim 1, wherein an EMG (electromyography) sensor is installed above the platform 101 to monitor the electrical activity of the user's muscles, and if the electrical activity of the muscles exceeds a threshold value, the microcontroller actuates the loudspeaker to inform the user of the detected abnormal electrical activity of the muscles and to take the necessary measures accordingly. [5] The device according to claim 1, wherein a Kinect sensor is provided above the platform 101 and synchronized with the imaging unit 104 to monitor hand gestures of the user, based on which the microcontroller operates the device accordingly. [6] The device of claim 1, wherein a battery is connected to the device to power electrical and electronically operated components connected to the device.

Citation Information

Patent Citations

  • Portable Gadget-Holding Device

    US20110011906A1