Adaptive Joint Protection Apparatus with Motion-Based Fastening Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing joint protection apparatuses lack an adaptive mechanism to adjust fastening force based on the wearer's motion, leading to inadequate shock relief and discomfort during varying activities.
Innovation Solution
A joint protection apparatus with sensors and a controller that classify motion regions and adjust fastening force accordingly, using a combination of sensors like inertial and electromyography sensors, and fasteners such as belts and air chambers to apply assistance torque, ensuring optimal support and comfort across different joint areas.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the joint protection apparatus uses a fixed fastening force, then the structure is simple, but the shock relief effectiveness is insufficient during varying activities
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by enabling the fastening force to dynamically adjust based on detected motion intensity. The controller receives signals from motion sensors and automatically modifies the fastening force applied by the fastener, transforming a static support system into an adaptive one that responds to varying activity levels and shock intensities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback by using motion sensors to continuously monitor the wearer's activity level and transmitting this information to the controller. The controller then adjusts the fastening force accordingly, creating a closed-loop system where the fastening mechanism responds to real-time motion data to optimize shock relief effectiveness.
2Reliability
If the joint protection apparatus applies strong fastening force continuously, then the shock relief is effective, but the wearer comfort deteriorates during low-shock movements
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the fastening force based on real-time motion detection. During high-shock activities, the fastening force increases to provide effective shock relief, while during low-shock movements, the fastening force decreases to enhance wearer comfort, eliminating the need for continuous strong fastening.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the fastening force parameter according to motion intensity. The controller modifies the magnitude of the fastening force applied by the fastener based on signals from motion sensors, allowing the system to transition between strong and weak fastening states to optimize both shock relief and comfort.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the joint protection apparatus uses motion sensing and automatic adjustment, then the adaptability improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent achieves motion-based adaptability by integrating multi-functional components: motion sensors that detect various types of movement, a controller that processes sensor data and determines appropriate fastening force levels, and a fastener that applies adjustable fastening force. This unified system provides automatic adaptation to different activities without requiring separate adjustment mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are a joint protection apparatus and a control method thereof. The joint protection apparatus includes a support unit, to which different support frames are coupled via a hinge, a fastening adjustment unit coupled to the support unit to provide fastening force required to fasten the support unit to a human body, a sensing unit configured to sense motion of the different support frames, and a controller configured to decide a motion region in which the motion sensed by the sensing unit is included and to decide the fastening force of the decided motion region.