Body weight support system having lifting mechanism and a method for rehabilitation

Abstract

A body weight support system (100) for rehabilitation is disclosed. The system (100) includes a body weight support apparatus (102) configured to ease the load of a user (104) performing rehabilitation exercises using the apparatus (102). The apparatus (102) facilitates the user to move forward and backward upon detecting at least a change in the angle of at least one connecting member (106) used to support the user (104). The apparatus also reduces the load of the user (104) when load exerted by the user on the at least one connecting member (106) by the user (104) changes. The apparatus either winds or unwinds the at least one connecting member (106), based on the load exerted by the user (104) on the at least one connecting member (106).

Description

TITLE OF INVENTION:BODY WEIGHT SUPPORT SYSTEM HAVING LIFTING MECHANISM AND A METHOD FOR REHABILITATIONTECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to a rehabilitation system and, more particularly, the present invention relates to a dynamic body weight support system having lifting mechanism and a method for rehabilitation of a person (e.g., a physically impaired person).BACKGROUND

[0002] Rehabilitation is the process of treating the physical disabilities of a person through massage electrotherapy and exercises. Various apparatus and systems are used to achieve rehabilitation. Delivering intensive yet safe gait therapy to individuals is the greatest challenge to even the most skilled therapists. In the acute stages of many neurological injuries such as stroke, spinal cord injury, or traumatic brain injury, individuals often exhibit highly unstable standing, walking, and other patterns and poor endurance, making it difficult to safely practice gait for both the patient and the therapist. Because of this, there has been a big push in rehabilitation centers to move over-ground gait training to the treadmill where body-weight support systems can help minimize falls while at the same time raising the intensity of the training.

[0003] Many robotic rehabilitation systems that are used currently require the installation of mechanical bars / rods to enable the movement of the user. The mechanical bars / rods are engaged with the body and assist in performing the exercise programmed or instructed by the instructor based on the medical condition of the patients. Such systems restrict the movement of the user either in a horizontal or vertical position. As such systems do not help in bearing weight excess to the tolerance level of the patients, performing rehabilitation exercises with such systems may not be comfortable for users. Further, some exercises require 360-degree freedom of movement along with forward and backward movements.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0004] In view of the foregoing, a body weight support apparatus is disclosed. The body weight support apparatus includes a support member, at least one connecting member, a sensor device, at least one first driving unit, and at least one second driving unit. The at least one connecting member is configured to hold at least one body part of a user. The sensor device is disposed on the at least one connecting member. The sensor device is configured to detectmovement of the user in a forward motion as a positive angle change and a backward motion as a negative angle change. The at least one first driving unit is configured to slide the body weight support apparatus along the support member based on the movement of the user in the forward motion and the backward motion. The at least one second driving unit is configured to hold the user in accordance with at least one load acting on the at least one connecting member.

[0005] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the body weight support apparatus includes a slide travel unit coupled to the support member and adapted to facilitate the user to travel along the support member.

[0006] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the body weight support apparatus further includes a load carrying unit configured to carry load of the user while the user performs at least one motion.

[0007] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the load carrying unit includes a sensor configured to detect the at least one load acting on the at least one connecting member that facilitates to activate the at least one second driving unit.

[0008] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the load carrying unit comprising at least one adjusting member that is coupled to the at least one first driving unit. The load carrying unit is configured to adjust length of the at least one connecting member based on the at least one motion of the user.

[0009] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the sensor device comprising at least one roller comprising a pair of rollers such that the at least one connecting member slides between the pair of rollers when the user undergoes the movement in the forward motion and in the backward motion.

[0010] In some aspects of the present disclosure, a body weight support system is disclosed. The body weight support system includes a body weight support apparatus. The body weight support apparatus includes a support member, at least one connecting member, a sensor device, at least one first driving unit, and at least one second driving unit. The at least one connecting member is configured to hold at least one body part of a user. The sensor device is disposed on the at least one connecting member. The sensor device is configured to detect movement of the user in a forward motion as a positive angle change and a backward motion as a negative angle change. The at least one first driving unit is configured to slide the body weight support apparatus along the support member based on the movement of the user in the forward motion and the backward motion. The at least one second driving unit is configured to hold the user in accordance with at least one load acting on the at least one connecting member.

[0011] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the body weight support apparatus further includes a slide travel unit coupled to the support member and adapted to facilitate the user to travel along the support member.

[0012] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the body weight support apparatus further comprising a load carrying unit that is configured to carry load of the user while the user performs at least one motion.

[0013] In some aspects of the present disclosure, a method for rehabilitation is disclosed. The method includes a step of holding, by way of at least one connecting member, at least one body part of a user. The method further includes a step of detecting, by way of a sensor device disposed on the at least one connecting member, movement of the user in a forward motion as a positive angle change and a backward motion as a negative angle change. The method further includes a step of sliding, by way of at least one first driving unit, the body weight support apparatus along a support member based on the movement of the user in the forward motion and the backward motion. The method further includes a step of holding, by way of at least one second driving unit, the user in accordance with at least one load acting on the at least one connecting member.

[0014] The present invention relates to dynamic Body -Weight Support (DBWS) systems designed to aid in physical rehabilitation. The present invention uses sensors, actuators, and a computer to create a feedback control system that helps with over-ground therapy by consistently unloading body weight during dynamic conditions. The present invention can offload up to 100 KG to 200kg, allowing for high-intensity therapy soon after an injury, and compensate for weakness and poor coordination, enabling patients to push their limits during recovery.

[0015] Accordingly, an objective of the present invention is to provide a Dynamic body weight support system which is simplified and can be affordable so that the majority of people can take advantage to this great technology in health care system. Simplifying the logic and major components.

[0016] Under the first aspect, the present invention provides Dynamic body weight support system (DBWS) With less complicated components and increase efficiency, safety and the easy machine program easy maintenance which lead to easy complications in long run of functioning.

[0017] The main functioning of Dynamic body weight support system is to give constant upward force to person with harness this can be explained with example, if person weigh 100kg the Dynamic body weight support system can be programmed to give dynamic pull of force 20% that is 20kg or 30% that is 30kg etc. or more depending on situation. The person in harness will feel lighter as per upward fore is given and even if person do vertical movement (up and down) like sit up or sit on chair function the pull is constant in vertical direction in full length availablewhich is set and can be set with many vertical limits like up and down limit. This process to off load the person weight so that the person can walk easily or do some exercise as per suggested then in course of time the upward force is reduced to give more intensity so the person can get recover properly and quickly.

[0018] In an aspect of the invention, a body weight support system for rehabilitation is disclosed, the body weight support system includes a body weight support apparatus. The apparatus includes at least one connecting member configured to hold at one body part of a user. The apparatus also includes at least one sensor device coupled to the at least one connecting member and configured to detect at least one motion of the user. The apparatus also includes a first driving unit operably coupled to the at least one connecting member and configured to generate driving force to the at least one connecting member to lift load of the user. The apparatus also includes a controller configured to at least control the driving force generated in the first driving unit based on the at least one motion of the user. The apparatus also includes a load-carrying unit including at least one adjusting member operably coupled to the first driving unit and configured to adjust the length of at least one connecting member based on the at least one motion of the user. The apparatus also includes a second driving unit operably coupled to the at least one connecting member and configured to generate driving force to slide the at least one connecting member.

[0019] In an aspect, the at least one motion of the user includes at least forward, backward, upward, downward, rotational motion, left and right.

[0020] In an aspect, the sensor device includes at least one sensor and at least one roller coupled to the at least one sensor and engaged with the at least one connecting member.

[0021] In an aspect, the at least one sensor includes at least an encoder, a load cell, and an angle sensor.

[0022] In an aspect, the first driving unit is a servo motor.

[0023] In an aspect, the at least one adjusting member includes a movable pulley, a rewinding pulley, a sliding member operably connecting the movable pulley, and the rewinding pulley. The one end of the at least one connecting member is connected to the movable pulley and the other end of the at least one connecting member is connected to the user via the rewinding pulley.

[0024] In an aspect, the load of the user acting on the at least one connecting member rewinds the at least one connecting member for ease of movement of the user, by moving the movable pulley towards the rewinding pulley along the sliding member.

[0025] In an aspect, the load of the user released from the at least one connecting member winds the at least one connecting member for ease movement of the user, by moving the movable pulley away from the rewinding pulley along the sliding member.

[0026] In an aspect, at least one adjusting member includes at least one measuring unit for measuring a degree of movement of the movable pulley along the sliding member.

[0027] In an aspect, the apparatus includes a support member configured to provide support to the apparatus. The apparatus further comprises at least one slide travel unit configured to slide along the support member. The apparatus is moved by the second driving unit based on the at least one motion of the user along at least forward, and backward direction.

[0028] In another aspect, a method implemented by or performed by a body weight support system for rehabilitation is disclosed.

[0029] The summary of the invention does not necessarily disclose all the features essential for defining the invention. The invention may reside in a sub-combination of the disclosed features. The various combinations and sub-combination are fully described in the detailed description.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0030] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the present disclosure and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the present disclosure.

[0031] The diagrams are for illustration only, which thus is not a limitation of the present disclosure, and wherein:

[0032] FIG. 1A illustrates a perspective view of a body weight support system, in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention.

[0033] FIG. IB illustrates a perspective view of the body weight support system, in accordance with another embodiment of the invention.

[0034] FIG. 2A illustrates a perspective view of a sensor device and at least one connecting member of a body weight support apparatus, in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention.

[0035] FIG. 2B illustrates a side view of the sensor device and the at least one connecting member of the body weight support apparatus, in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention.

[0036] FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of the body weight support apparatus installed with a slide travel unit, in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention.

[0037] FIGs. 4A-5A illustrates a perspective view of the body weight support apparatus installed with a movable pulley, a rewinding pulley, and the least one second driving unit, in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention.

[0038] FIGs. 4B-5B illustrates a top view of the body weight support apparatus of FIGs. 4A and 5 A, in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention.

[0039] FIG. 6 illustrates a real-word example of a treadmill wherein the body weight support apparatus or the system may be implemented

[0040] FIGs. 7A-7D shows further components of the apparatus 102.

[0041] FIG. 8 illustrates a flowchart of a method for rehabilitation of a user, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0042] Those skilled in the art will understand that when an element or part in the drawings is referred to as being “on” (or “connected” to or “coupled” to or “attached” to) another element, it can be directly on (or attached to) the other element or intervening elements may also be present. Furthermore, relative terms such as “inner”, “outer”, “upper”, “above”, “lower”, “beneath”, and “below”, and similar terms, may be used herein to describe a relationship of one element to another element. It is understood that these terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures.

[0043] The present methods and systems may be understood more readily by reference to the following detailed description of preferred embodiments and the examples included therein and to the Figures and their previous and following description.

[0044] There are various sub-assemblies present in the invention, which are explained and shown in figures, however, to summarize, the main lifting unit it consists of:1. Servo motor2. Gear box3. Rewinding and unwinding pulley.4. Linear scale or linear encoder5. Linear hard chrome and linear bearing6. Fixed pulley7. Movable pulley8. Spring9. Flat belt or rope.10. Load cell11. Harness connector.

[0045] The function of the lifting unit and its essential components is as provided below:1. Servomotor is a drive which gives rotatory motion (clock wise and antilock wise) to pulley through gear box.2. Gear box is to increase the torque of motor.3. Rewinder pulley is to unwind and rewind the belt or rope according to program.4. Linear scale / encoder etc. is to measure deflection of load through movable pulley.5. Linear hard chrome and linear are bearing assembly to convert linear motion without any friction.6. Fix pulley is positioned at the lifting part.7. Movable pulley is attached to linear bearing and deflects through spring8. Spring is used as spring weighing system the deflection in spring to identify pull force and helps to reduce jerks during walking.9. Flat belt / rope one end is connected to unwind rewind pulley and second end is connected through moveable pulley to attachment used to connect harness.10. Load cell is to calibrate weight and check force sometimes the system can run without load cell and spring force can be calibrated externally. But the best is to synchronize between linear sale and load cell the signals from both will be given to controller and best output action will be taken by servo motor11. Encoder in Fig 5A near rewinding pully is used for vertical limit setting program.12. Harness connector is the link connecter to belt and harness tied to person.

[0046] The lifting unit / apparatus of the present invention works as follow:

[0047] The main function of the lifting unit is to lift the person at specific pull Which isUpward force for example, if the person is weighing hundred Then if we set it on 20%, it will Pull 20kg and the upward force is 20kg always constant which is a dynamic and the force is always constant even if the person moves in vertical position up and down this function is perform by given below process

[0048] When the person with harness stands below the lifting unit with no upward force in setting, he will feel no upward force then as we apply upward pull in settings the force is applied by rewinding of Drum which is driven by servomotor and gear box.

[0049] The spring gets contracted and upward force is generated the spring deflects and the deflection is detected by linear scale or linear encoder this spring force depends on contraction of spring the more spring contracts the more force is generated the force can be calibrated by loadcell which is in built or can be calibrated by external load cell assembly. For example, spring length is 100mm when it compresses 50mm it will generate 50kg force if contracted fully it will generate 100kg of force this force can be calibrated across the length the spring. The end isconnected to linear scale or encoder. Let’s assume if spring is not compressed then the voltage is 0 volt and when compressed fully its 10 volts.

[0050] Let assume if spring is compressed 50mm the load caring will be 50 kg and the voltage will be 5volt.

[0051] In program the logic is made is such a way that it will pull constant weight this is done with below process:

[0052] If we pull position of 50 mm of spring which pull 50 kg the linear encoder will show 5volt signal. In logic we will lock the position of 5 volt. At this point the servo is not moving forward or reverse to will maintain pull at 5 volts (50kg pull). There will be deflection if person moves up or down Let’s consider situation if person go down the count in linear encoder will be more than 5 volts and if person move up the voltage will be below 5 volts. The logic is written is such a way that the 5 volt which is lock in our program is to be consider as 0 volt in output for servo motor, if the voltage is more than 5 volts the output volt will be in positive side linearly to +10volt (0+10volt) and if linear scale voltage is less 5 volt it will consider in negative voltage linear to -lOvolt (0-10 volt). The load cell also takes the load feedback which is exerted by the spring this signal also used to take actions so the precision is increased by 2 feedbacks

[0053] Servo is programed to move in clock wise direction in +positive side output, and is in anti-clock wise direction in -negative voltage (or wise a versa) the speed is linearly depending on the fluctional of the voltage.

[0054] Now the forward motion according to forward movement and x y movement of lifting unit can be achieved / obtained in similar manner as that explained above i.e., linear encoder is provided for liftin mechanism (as explained above), however, for horizontal movement we have rotatory encoder the logic used is same as per lifting unit. To achieve X and Y movement, 2 encoders are used to identify the coordinate and then according to input of encoders the servo motor take action as per program.

[0055] FIG. 1A illustrates a perspective view of a body weight support system 100, in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention. The body weight support system 100 (also referred to as the system 100) includes a support member 130(1), and a body weight support apparatus 102 supported in the support member 130(1). The support member 130(1) is positioned at a predetermined height from a ground surface 150 of a covered space. At least one connecting member 106 (e.g., rope, cable, string, etc.) is configured to hold at least one body part of a user 104. For example, as shown in FIG. 1A, the least one connecting member 106 is the rope capable of carrying and holding the user 104 with respect to the support member 130(1). In one embodiment, the length of the at least one connecting member 106 is configured to be adjusted based on the required movement of the user 104. The least one connecting member 106can be engaged with at least limbs, armpits, thighs, etc., of the user 104. The apparatus 102 also includes a load carrying unit 114 configured to carry the load of the user 104, while the user 104 performs at least one motion including but not limited to sitting, standing, hopping, etc. The apparatus 102 is configured to move the user 104 along a direction X in the support member 130(1).

[0056] FIG. IB illustrates a perspective view of the body weight support system 100, in accordance with another embodiment of the invention. The system 100 also includes a support member 130(2), positioned at the predetermined height from the ground surface 150 of a covered space. The apparatus 102 is configured to move the user 104 along the direction Y in the support member 130(1). Thus, the user 104 can move along X and Y directions as shown in FIG. IB, using the support members 130(1) and 130(2).

[0057] FIG. 2 A illustrates a perspective view of a sensor device 108 and at least one connecting member 106 of the body weight support apparatus 102, in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention. FIG. 2B illustrates a side view of the sensor device 108 and the at least one connecting member 106 of the body weight support apparatus 102, in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention. The sensor device 108 may be disposed on the at least one connecting member 106. The sensor device 108 includes at least one sensor 116 (hereinafter referred to as sensor 116) is configured to detect a movement of the user 104 in forward or backward directi on / moti on. For example, when the user 104 moves forward the sensor considers as positive angle change, while when the user 104 moves backward, the sensor considers the change in angle with respect to the center as the negative angle. In other words, the sensor 116 may be configured to detect movement of the user 104 in the forward motion as the positive angle change and the backward motion as the negative angle change. The apparatus 102 is moved by the servo motor forward when the positive angle change is detected by the sensor. The apparatus 102 is moved by the servo motor in a backward or reverse direction when the negative angle change is detected by the sensor. The sensor device 108 also includes at least one roller 118. The at least one roller 118 includes a pair of rollers (e.g., flexible roller assembly). Between the pair of rollers 118, the connecting member 106 slides and allows easy running of the connecting member 106. In other words, the at least one connecting member 106 slides between the rollers 118 when the user 104 undergoes the movement in the forward motion and in the backward motion. This allows easy detection of the movement of the connecting member 106. The pair of rollers are operably connected to the sensor 116. As shown in FIG. 2A, the user 104 can be held in the apparatus 102 using the connecting member 106 by using a harness 134. The sensor used to detect a change in the angle of the connecting member 106 includes but is not limited to the encoder, angle detector, any contactless sensor to detect angleetc. The at least one motion or movement of the user (104) includes at least forward, backward, upward, downward, and rotational motion.

[0058] FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of the body weight support apparatus 102 installed with a slide travel unit 132, in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention. The slide travel unit 132 may be installed in or coupled to the support member 130(1) and / or 130(2), such that the user 104 can easily travel along the support member 130(1) and / or 130(2) using the slide travel unit 132. In other words, the slide travel unit 132 may be adapted to facilitate the user to travel along the support members 130(1) and / or 130(2). The slide travel unit 132 has a first pulley 136 and a second pulley 138. The first pulley 136 and the second pulley 138 slides along the support member 130(1) and / or 130(2) to move the user 104. The sensor 116 senses the positive or negative angle change of the user 104. The apparatus 102 also includes at least one first driving unit 112 (e.g., servo motor) configured to slide the apparatus 102 along the support member 130(1) and / or 130(2), based on the sensor signal from the sensor 116. In other words, the at least one first driving unit 112 may be configured to slide the apparatus 102 along the support member 130(1) and / or 130(2) based on the movement of the user 104 in the forward motion i.e., when there is the positive angle change and in the backward motion i.e., when there is the negative angle change. The apparatus 102 also includes at least one second driving unit 140 configured to hold the user 104 in accordance with at least one load acting on the at least one connecting member 106. The at least one second driving unit 140 is activated based on the load acting on the connecting member 106. Also set of drives increases with y axis.

[0059] FIGs. 4A-5A illustrates a perspective view of the body weight support apparatus installed with a movable pulley, a rewinding pulley, and the least one second driving unit, in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention. Further, FIGs. 4B-5B illustrates a top view of the body weight support apparatus of FIGs. 4A and 5 A, in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention.

[0060] FIG. 4 A illustrates a perspective view of the body weight support apparatus 102 installed with a movable pulley 122, a rewinding pulley 124, and the least one second driving unit 140, in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention. FIG. 4B illustrates a top view of the body weight support apparatus 102 of FIG. 4 A, in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention. The load carrying unit 114 includes at least one adjusting member 120 operably coupled to the first driving unit 112 and configured to adjust length of at least one connecting member 106 based on the at least one motion of the user 104. The at least one adjusting member 120 includes but is not limited to the movable pulley 122, the rewinding pulley 124, and the least one second driving unit 140.

[0061] The load carrying unit 114 of the apparatus 102 includes a sensor 144 (e.g., load cell) configured to detect at least one load acting on the at least one connecting member 106 and accordingly activate the at least one second driving unit 140. The movement (i.e., upward, or downward, sideward) of the connecting member 106 by the user 104 is detected by the sensor 144 and is converted to mechanical energy or signal, which intron activates the at least one second driving unit 140 (e.g., slide motor).

[0062] The at least one adjusting member 120 also includes a sliding member 126 (e.g., a hard crome rod) and a linear bearing or guide rails etc. 146. The linear bearing 146 reduces the friction while the moving pulley 122 slides along the sliding member 126. The at least one second driving unit 140 generates the sliding force (also referred to as driving force) to the movable pulley 122. The movable pulley 122 is coupled with the linear bearing that moves along the sliding member 126, while receiving sliding force from the at least one second driving unit 140. The at least one connecting member 106 passed through the movable pulley 122 and the rewinding pulley 124. Upon detecting the load (both increased load and decreased load) by the sensor 144, the at least one second driving unit 140 generates the forward linear or backward linear force on the movable pulley 122. The forward movement of the movable pulley 122 winds the connecting member 106 around the rewinding pulley 124, while the backward movement of the movable pulley 122 unwinds the connecting member 106 around the rewinding pulley 124.

[0063] In one embodiment, the at least one adjusting member 120 includes at least one measuring unit 128 (e.g., scale) for measuring a degree of movement of the movable pulley 122 along the sliding member 126. For example, the center of the at least one measuring unit 128 is marked with 50mm, and the load at 50mm scale from starting point, that is 0mm is set as 50kg. The load at 0mm is set as Okg, while the load at 100mm can be set as 100kg. Thus, the distance 50mm is considered as the center, and the voltage actually applied to the system 100 is 0V. Based on the load of the user 104, at least one adjusting member 120 can move the movable pulley 122 towards 0mm or 100mm.

[0064] As shown in FIG. 4A, the first driving unit 112 is linked with a gear unit 142 to generate different speeds for movement of the connecting member 106. The apparatus 102 is not limited to the elements shown as in FIG. 4A, other elements, such as electrical, electronic, and mechanical elements can be used without limitation. For example, the system 100 can have a controller 110 (see, FIG. 1A, and IB) to control one or more operations of the apparatus 102 based on one or more inputs received from the therapist or trainer for rehabilitation of the user 104. Thus, the present invention, not only provides controlled forward and backward movement to the user 104, but also bears the load of the user 104 to ease the rehabilitation process, as the user 104 does not feel the full load of her / himself while performing exercises. The load carryingunit 114 smartly activates the second driving unit 140, such that the required load of the user 104 can be borne by the load carrying unit 114 while performing the exercises.

[0065] As shown in FIGs. 5A and 5B, the linear bearing is to slide moving pulley on hard crome rod. Further, the linear scale gives the distance (position of moving pulley assume (0- 150mm). Further, the rewinding pulley is to rewind belt spring acts as deflection material and carry load. The rewinder and unwinder of belt is done by motor through gear box.

[0066] FIG. 6 illustrates a real-word example of a treadmill where the body weight support apparatus 102 or the system 100 may be implemented. In this exemplary implementation, the angle sensor is included in system. The system operates like the treadmill is in dynamic condition which works based on the movement of the person. For example, if person walks forward the angle sensor deflects and treadmill starts moving in desire direction as the person moves fast the treadmill moves fast as per program. As the sensor deflects it will generate signals that will be processed by controller and necessary actions like speed and direction will be taken. This can be used in sports industries to train athletics. As compared to the existing solution / treadmills, currently have fix speed which is set and the person runs on treadmill according to the set speed in treadmill but according to the present invention the speed will be variable according to user and all necessary data will be generated reg speed average speed etc. this will help in tracking progress.

[0067] In an exemplary implementation, the system (100) may be configured with the Al (Artificial intelligence) that can be used for analyzing of data got from the persons session of working the Al will monitor various parameter of machine-like speed, average speed lifting pulls etc. This data will be used to improve and make necessary changes in parameters for improvements. These parameters of the system can be changed and adjusted as per Al. In an exemplary embodiment, a chat bot can be used to take data from system and check health of machine and analyses.

[0068] FIGs. 7A-7D shows further components of the apparatus 102.

[0069] To summarize the embodiments of the present invention, a body weight support system (100) for rehabilitation is provided. The body weight support system (100) includes a body weight support apparatus (102) configured to support a user (104).

[0070] The apparatus (102) include at least one connecting member (106) configured to hold at one body part of a user (104); at least one sensor device (108) coupled to the at least one connecting member (106) and configured to detect at least one motion of the user (104); a first driving unit (112) operably coupled to the at least one connecting member (106) and configured to generate driving force to the at least one connecting member (106) to lift load of the user (104); a controller (110) configured to at least control driving force generated in the first drivingunit (112) based on the at least one motion of the user (104); a load-carrying unit (114) comprising at least one adjusting member (120) operably coupled to the first driving unit (112) and configured to adjust length of at least one connecting member (106) based on the at least one motion of the user (104); and a second driving unit (140) operably coupled to the at least one connecting member (106) and configured to generate driving force to slide the at least one connecting member (106).

[0071] The at least one motion of the user (104) comprises at least forward, backward, upward, downward, and rotational motion left and right.

[0072] The sensor device (108) comprises at least one sensor (116) and at least one roller (118) coupled to the at least one sensor (116) and engaged with the at least one connecting member (106).

[0073] The at least one sensor (116) comprises at least an encoder, a load cell, and an angle sensor.

[0074] The first driving unit (112) is a servo motor.

[0075] The at least one adjusting member (120) comprises a movable pulley (122), a rewinding pulley (124), a sliding member (126) operably connecting the movable pulley (122) and the rewinding pulley (124), wherein one end of the at least one connecting member (106) is connected to the movable pulley (122) and other end of the at least one connecting member (106) is connected to the user (104) via the rewinding pulley (124).

[0076] The load of the user (104) acting on the at least one connecting member (106) rewinds the at least one connecting member (106) for ease movement of the user (104), by moving the movable pulley (122) towards the rewinding pulley (124) along the sliding member (126).

[0077] The user (104) released from the at least one connecting member (106) winds the at least one connecting member (106) for ease movement of the user (104), by moving the movable pulley (122) away from the rewinding pulley (124) along the sliding member (126).

[0078] The at least one adjusting member 120 comprises at least one measuring unit 128 for measuring a degree of movement of the movable pulley 122 along the sliding member 126.

[0079] The system further includes a support member 130(1), 130(2) configured to provide support to the apparatus 102. The apparatus 102 further comprises at least one slide travel unit 132 configured to slide along the support member 130(1), 130(2). The apparatus 102 is moved by the second driving unit 140 based on the at least one motion of the user 104 along at least forward, and backward direction.

[0080] FIG. 7C and FIG 7D illustrates a perspective view of the apparatus 102, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The apparatus 102 may be configured to facilitate to support the user 104.

[0081] In operation, the user 104 may use the apparatus 102 to improve rehabilitation. The at least one connecting member 106 may be configured to hold at least one body part of the user 104. The sensor device 108 may be disposed on the at least one connecting member 106. The sensor device 108 may be configured to detect movement of the user 104 in the forward motion as a positive angle change and the backward motion as the negative angle change. The at least one first driving unit 112 may be configured to slide the body weight support apparatus 102 along the support member 130-1, 130-2 based on the movement of the user 104 in the forward motion and the backward motion. The at least one second driving unit 140 may be configured to hold the user 104 in accordance with at least one load acting on the at least one connecting member 106. The slide travel unit 132 may be adapted to facilitate the user to travel along the support member 130-1, 130-2. The load carrying unit 114 may be configured to carry the load of the user 104 while the user 104 performs the at least one motion. The sensor 144 of the load carrying unit 114 may be configured to detect the at least one load acting on the at least one connecting member 106 that facilitates to activate the at least one second driving unit 140. The at least one adjusting member 120 that is coupled to the at least one first driving unit 112. The at least one adjusting member 120 may be configured to adjust length of the at least one connecting member 106 based on the at least one motion of the user 104. The sensor device 108 may include the at least one roller 118 that includes a pair of rollers such that the at least one connecting member 106 slides between the pair of rollers when the user 104 undergoes the movement in the forward motion and in the backward motion.

[0082] In an exemplary embodiment the smart vision camera system can be used to detect the movement of the patient and can take necessary action like to activate or deactivate some feature according to movement / gesture. This vision system can be incorporated with Al (artificial intelligent) base camera vision system to enhance, improve machine ability and track progress of the person.

[0083] FIG. 8 illustrates a flowchart of a method 800 for rehabilitation of the user 104, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The method 800 may include the following steps for rehabilitation of the user 104.

[0084] At step 802, the system 100 may be configured to hold the at least one body part of the user 104. Specifically, the system 100, by way of the at least one connecting member 106, may be configured to hold the at least one body part of a user 104.

[0085] At step 804, the system 100 may be configured to detect movement of the user in the forward motion as a positive angle change and a backward motion as a negative angle change. Specifically, the system 100, by way of the sensor device 108 disposed on the at least one connecting member 106, movement of the user 104 in the forward motion as a positive angle change and a backward motion as a negative angle change.

[0086] At step 806, the system 100 may be configured to slide the body weight support apparatus 102 along the support member 130-1, 130-2 based on the movement of the user 104 in the forward motion and in the backward motion. Specifically, the system 100, by way of the at least one first driving unit 112, the body weight support apparatus 102 along the support member 130-1, 130-2 based on the movement of the user 104 in the forward motion and the backward motion.

[0087] At step 808, the system 100 may be configured to hold the user 104 in accordance with the at least one load acting on the at least one connecting member 106. Specifically, the system 100, by way of the at least one second driving unit 140, may be configured to hold the user 104 in accordance with the at least one load acting on the at least one connecting member 106.

[0088] An exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure provides a method for rehabilitation using a body weight support apparatus. The method involves holding at least one body part of a user via a connecting member, such as a harness or strap. A sensor device disposed on the connecting member detects the movement of the user, classifying a forward motion as a positive angle change and a backward motion as a negative angle change. Based on this detected motion, a first driving unit slides the body weight support apparatus along a support member to assist or follow the user's movement. Concurrently, a second driving unit adjusts the support provided to the user in response to the load measured on the connecting member, enabling dynamic and responsive support during rehabilitation exercises.

[0089] In a preferred embodiment, the system includes an artificial intelligence (Al) module configured to enhance the effectiveness and maintenance of the apparatus. The Al module analyzes data from the current rehabilitation session as well as from multiple past sessions to evaluate the user’s progress and adapt future session parameters. It also processes sensor and operational data in real time to autonomously adjust the operation of the apparatus, including the motion and load assistance provided. Furthermore, the Al module continuously monitors the health of various components of the apparatus, predicting maintenance needs and identifying abnormalities to ensure consistent, safe, and effective operation.

[0090] As will be appreciated by one skilled in the art, the methods and systems may take the form of an entirely hardware embodiment, an entirely software embodiment, or anembodiment combining software and hardware aspects. Furthermore, the methods and systems may take the form of a computer program product on a computer-readable storage medium having computer-readable program instructions (e.g., computer software) embodied in the storage medium. More particularly, the present methods and systems may take the form of web- implemented computer software. Any suitable computer-readable storage medium may be utilized including hard disks, CD-ROMs, optical storage devices, or magnetic storage devices.

[0091] Embodiments of the methods, devices, and units are described above with reference to block diagrams and flowchart illustrations of methods, systems, apparatuses, and computer program products. It will be understood that each block of the block diagrams and flowchart illustrations, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams and flowchart illustrations, respectively, can be implemented by computer program instructions. These computer program instructions may be loaded onto a general -purpose computer, special purpose computer, or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a machine, such that the instructions which execute on the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus create a means for implementing the functions specified in the flowchart block or blocks.

[0092] These computer program instructions may also be stored in a computer-readable memory that can direct a computer or other programmable data processing apparatus to function in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in the computer-readable memory produce an article of manufacture including computer-readable instructions for implementing the function specified in the flowchart block or blocks. The computer program instructions may also be loaded onto a computer or other programmable data processing apparatus to cause a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer or other programmable apparatus to produce a computer-implemented process such that the instructions that execute on the computer or other programmable apparatus provide steps for implementing the functions specified in the flowchart block or blocks.

[0093] Accordingly, blocks of the block diagrams and flowchart illustrations support combinations of means for performing the specified functions, combinations of steps for performing the specified functions and program instruction means for performing the specified functions. It will also be understood that each block of the block diagrams and flowchart illustrations, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams and flowchart illustrations, can be implemented by special purpose hardware-based computer systems that perform the specified functions or steps, or combinations of special purpose hardware and computer instructions.

[0094] Various terms as used herein are shown below. To the extent a term is used, it should be given the broadest definition persons in the pertinent art have given that term as reflected in printed publications and issued patents at the time of filing.

[0095] The foregoing objects of the invention are accomplished and the problems and shortcomings associated with the prior art techniques and approaches are overcome by the present invention as described below in the preferred embodiment.

[0096] While the subject invention is described and illustrated with respect to certain preferred and alternative embodiments, it should be understood that various modifications can be made to those embodiments without departing from the subject invention, the scope of which is defined in the following claims.

[0097] The recitation of ranges of values herein is merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range. Unless otherwise indicated herein, each individual value with a range is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein. All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g., “such as”) provided with respect to certain embodiments herein is intended merely to better illuminate the invention and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention.

[0098] In an illustrative configuration, the apparatus 102 (specifically, the controller 110) may include one or more processors (processor(s)) for example the first hardware processor and the second hardware processor technically equivalent to “data processing unit”, one or more memory devices (generically referred to herein as memory), one or more input / output (I / O) interface(s), one or more network interface(s), one or more sensors or sensor interface(s), one or more transceivers, one or more optional speakers, one or more optional microphones, and data storage. The remote server may further include one or more buses that functionally couple various components of the remote server. The remote server may further include one or more antenna(e) that may include, without limitation, a cellular antenna for transmitting or receiving signals to / from a cellular network infrastructure, an antenna for transmitting or receiving Wi-Fi signals to / from an access point (AP), a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) antenna for receiving GNSS signals from a GNSS satellite, a Bluetooth antenna for transmitting or receiving Bluetooth signals, a Near Field Communication (NFC) antenna for transmitting or receiving NFC signals, and so forth. These various components will be described in more detail hereinafter.

[0099] The memory of the apparatus 102 may include volatile memory (memory that maintains its state when supplied with power) such as random-access memory (RAM) and / or non-volatile memory (memory that maintains its state even when not supplied with power) such as read-only memory (ROM), flash memory, ferroelectric RAM (FRAM), and so forth. Persistent data storage, as that term is used herein, may include non-volatile memory. In certainexample embodiments, volatile memory may enable faster read / write access than non-volatile memory. However, in certain other example embodiments, certain types of non-volatile memory (e.g., FRAM) may enable faster read / write access than certain types of volatile memory.

[0100] It should further be appreciated that the system may include alternate and / or additional hardware, software, or firmware components beyond those described or depicted without departing from the scope of the disclosure. More particularly, it should be appreciated that software, firmware, or hardware components depicted as forming part of the body weight support system 100 are merely illustrative and that some components may not be present or additional components may be provided in various embodiments. While various illustrative program module(s) have been depicted and described as software module(s) stored in data storage, it should be appreciated that functionality described as being supported by the program module(s) may be enabled by any combination of hardware, software, and / or firmware. It should further be appreciated that each of the above-mentioned module(s) may, in various embodiments, represent a logical partitioning of supported functionality. This logical partitioning is depicted for ease of explanation of the functionality and may not be representative of the structure of software, hardware, and / or firmware for implementing the functionality. Accordingly, it should be appreciated that functionality described as being provided by a particular module may, in various embodiments, be provided at least in part by one or more other module(s). Further, one or more depicted module(s) may not be present in certain embodiments, while in other embodiments, additional module(s) not depicted may be present and may support at least a portion of the described functionality and / or additional functionality. Moreover, while certain module(s) may be depicted and described as sub-module(s) of another module, in certain embodiments, such module(s) may be provided as independent module(s) or as sub-module(s) of other module(s).

[0101] Program module(s), applications, or the like disclosed herein may include one or more software components including, for example, software objects, methods, data structures, or the like. Each such software component may include computer-executable instructions that, responsive to execution, cause at least a portion of the functionality described herein (e.g., one or more operations of the illustrative methods described herein) to be performed.

[0102] A software component may be coded in any of a variety of programming languages. An illustrative programming language may be a lower-level programming language such as an assembly language associated with a particular hardware architecture and / or operating system platform. A software component comprising assembly language instructions may require conversion into executable machine code by an assembler prior to execution by the hardware architecture and / or platform.

[0103] Although embodiments have been described in language specific to structural features and / or methodological acts, it is to be understood that the disclosure is not necessarily limited to the specific features or acts described. Rather, the specific features and acts are disclosed as illustrative forms of implementing the embodiments. Conditional language, such as, among others, “can,” “could,” “might,” or “may,” unless specifically stated otherwise, or otherwise understood within the context as used, is generally intended to convey that certain embodiments could include, while other embodiments do not include, certain features, elements, and / or steps. Thus, such conditional language is not generally intended to imply that features, elements, and / or steps are in any way required for one or more embodiments or that one or more embodiments necessarily include logic for deciding, with or without user input or prompting, whether these features, elements, and / or steps are included or are to be performed in any particular embodiment.

[0104] In one embodiment the modification can be done to eliminate wires for power supply to unit and in-built batteries can be used in system this battery can be charged wirelessly at end of the track or throughout the track as per requirement. This gives the huge advantage to system for electrical safety and in emergency failure of power.

Claims

We Claim:

1. A body weight support apparatus (102) comprising: a support member (130-1, 130-2); at least one connecting member (106) configured to hold at least one body part of a user (104); a sensor device (108) disposed on the at least one connecting member (106), and configured to detect movement of the user (104) in a forward motion as a positive angle change and a backward motion as a negative angle change; at least one first driving unit (112) configured to slide the body weight support apparatus (102) along the support member (130-1, 130-2) based on the movement of the user (104) in the forward motion and the backward motion; and at least one second driving unit (140) configured to hold the user (104) in accordance with at least one load acting on the at least one connecting member (106).

2. The body weight support apparatus (102) as claimed in claim 1, further comprising a slide travel unit (132) coupled to the support member (130-1, 130-2), and adapted to facilitate the user to travel along the support member (130-1, 130-2).

3. The body weight support apparatus (102) as claimed in claim 1, further comprising a load carrying unit (114) configured to carry load of the user (104) while the user (104) performs at least one motion.

4. The body weight support apparatus (102) as claimed in claim 3, wherein the load carrying unit (114) comprising a sensor (144) configured to detect the at least one load acting on the at least one connecting member (106) that facilitates to activate the at least one second driving unit (140).

5. The body weight support apparatus (102) as claimed in claim 3, wherein the load carrying unit (114) comprising at least one adjusting member (120) that is coupled to the at least one first driving unit (112), and configured to adjust length of the at least one connecting member (106) based on the at least one motion of the user (104).

6. The body weight support apparatus (102) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the sensor device (108) comprising at least one roller (118) comprising a pair of rollers such that theat least one connecting member (106) slides between the pair of rollers when the user (104) undergoes the movement in the forward motion and in the backward motion.

7. A body weight support system (100) comprising: a body weight support apparatus (102) comprising: a support member (130-1, 130-2); at least one connecting member (106) configured to hold at least one body part of a user (104); a sensor device (108) disposed on the at least one connecting member (106), and configured to detect movement of the user (104) in a forward motion as a positive angle change and a backward motion as a negative angle change; at least one first driving unit (112) configured to slide the body weight support apparatus (102) along the support member (130-1, 130-2) based on the movement of the user (104) in the forward motion and the backward motion; and at least one second driving unit (140) configured to hold the user (104) in accordance with at least one load acting on the at least one connecting member (106).

8. The body weight support system (100) as claimed in claim 7, wherein the body weight support apparatus (102) further comprising a slide travel unit (132) coupled to the support member (130-1, 130-2), and adapted to facilitate the user to travel along the support member (130-1, 130-2).

9. The body weight support system (100) as claimed in claim 7, wherein the body weight support apparatus (102) further comprising a load carrying unit (114) that is configured to carry load of the user (104) while the user (104) performs at least one motion.

10. A method (800) for rehabilitation comprising: holding (802), by way of at least one connecting member (106), at least one body part of a user (104); detecting (804), by way of a sensor device (108) disposed on the at least one connecting member (106), movement of the user (104) in a forward motion as a positive angle change and a backward motion as a negative angle change; sliding (806), by way of at least one first driving unit (112), the body weight support apparatus (102) along a support member (130-1, 130-2) based on the movement of the user (104) in the forward motion and the backward motion; andholding (808), by way of at least one second driving unit (140), the user (104) in accordance with at least one load acting on the at least one connecting member (106).

11. The method of claim 10, further comprising: utilizing an artificial intelligence (Al) module configured to:(a) analyze current and multiple rehabilitation sessions to evaluate user progress;(b) analyze sensor and operational data to autonomously adjust operation of the body weight support apparatus (102);(c) monitor and analyze health parameters of the body weight support apparatus (102) to detect operational conditions; and(d) predict maintenance needs and detect abnormalities in the functioning of the body weight support apparatus (102).

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