Adjustable Arm Support Lever for Variable Torque

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing arm support devices are inflexible and cannot accommodate users of different sizes or strengths, as well as varying work heights, due to fixed force curves determined by their construction.

Innovation Solution

The angle between the force application lever and the arm support element or force transmission element is adjustable, allowing for customizable support by changing the position at which the force application lever is perpendicular to the acting force, maximizing torque and support force.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the device uses a fixed force curve determined by its construction, then the device structure is simple and stable, but the device cannot accommodate users of different sizes or strengths or tasks at different heights

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to different users and tasksVSAvoiddevice structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The force application lever is made adjustable in its angle relative to the arm support element, transforming a static fixed-structure into a dynamic adaptable one. This allows the device to adjust its mechanical advantage ratio according to different user needs and task requirements, resolving the contradiction between simplicity and adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The angle parameter between the force application lever and arm support element is made variable. By changing this geometric parameter, the device can optimize the torque and support force for different users and tasks without fundamentally altering the device structure, thus maintaining relative simplicity while achieving versatility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Adaptability or versatility

If the angle between the force application lever and force transmission element is fixed, then the device is easier to manufacture and operate, but the force curve cannot be optimized for different users

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecustomizable support forceVSAvoidoperation simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The fixed angle relationship is replaced with an adjustable angle mechanism, allowing the force application lever to be positioned at different angles relative to the force transmission element. This enables optimization of the force curve for different users while maintaining a relatively simple operational interface through straightforward angular adjustment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If the device is designed for a specific user height and strength, then the device can provide optimized support for that user, but the device cannot be used effectively by users of different heights or strengths

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemulti-user compatibilityVSAvoidnumber of adjustable components
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

Rather than providing multiple complete device variants for different users, the invention allows a single device to be adjusted by changing the angle parameter of the force application lever. This enables one device to serve multiple users with different heights and strengths, avoiding the need for numerous components or device variants.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

This adaptability ensures optimal support for users of different sizes and strengths, and for tasks requiring different levels of assistance at various heights, enhancing usability and comfort.

Implementation Method 1

The force exerted by the passive actuator on the force transmission lever therefore exerts a torque on the arm support element and thus a supporting force

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectTorque: Torque

Implementation Method 2

at least one passive actuator configured to exert a force on at least one of the arm support elements

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical Force: Mechanical Force

Data Source

PatentEP3837094B1Device for supporting at least one arm of a user
Publication Date: 2023.09.27 OTTOBOCK SE & CO KGAA
  • EP3837094B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3837094B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4
  • EP3837094B1 patent drawingFigure 5~6

AI summary

The invention relates to a device for supporting at least one arm of a user, wherein the device comprises a. at least one arm-support element having a respective arm cuffrest for supportingplacing on a respective arm, b. at least one passive actuator which is designed to exert a force on at least one of the arm-support elements, and c. at least one counter-weight for the force to be applied, having at least one force-transmitting element and a counter-weight element, wherein the device has at least one force application lever which is rotationally fixed to one of the arm-support elements or the force-transmitting element and encloses an angle with same, and on which the at least one passive actuator impacts, wherein the angle can be adjusted.