Assistive Device with Independent Torso Support Movement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional assistive devices for disabled or impaired individuals lack individualized adaptation for optimal comfort and security, as they do not account for varying sizes and levels of impairment, leading to high loads on the user's back and shoulders during transitions from seated to standing positions.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus with a base, actuator arrangement, and torso support that can move vertically and horizontally independently, coupled with a processor and person identification system to create customized movement profiles based on individual user data, ensuring optimal assistance and comfort.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional lifts use straps, vests, or belts positioned around the patient's back with the centre of gravity behind the footplate, then the lifting function is achieved, but the load on back and shoulders of the person to be assisted becomes significant and uncomfortable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional approach by positioning the centre of gravity of the lifting mechanism directly above the footplate/knee support instead of behind it. This inversion changes the力学 principle from hanging support to upward support, eliminating the significant load on back and shoulders while maintaining effective lifting function
2Adaptability or versatility
If prior art apparatuses use fixed lifting mechanisms, then the structure is simple, but adaptation to different sizes and levels of impairment is not possible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the torso support movable in both horizontal and vertical directions independently through actuator arrangements. This dynamic capability allows the system to adapt to different user sizes and impairment levels by adjusting the support position, while the independent movement control adds manageable complexity to achieve versatility
Solution Approach 2:
The patent achieves universality by designing a lifting mechanism that can serve multiple user types and impairment levels through programmable movement profiles. The same apparatus can be customized for different individuals via software control, eliminating the need for multiple specialized devices
3Reliability
If conventional apparatuses provide fixed movement patterns, then the control system is simple, but individualized optimization for each user cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback through a person identification system that detects which user is present and automatically selects or adjusts the appropriate movement profile. This feedback mechanism ensures reliable, individualized assistance for each user while the automated profile selection keeps the control interface simple and user-friendly
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus and procedure for disabled, impaired or handicapped persons in reaching or maintaining a standing or partially standing position. The apparatus includes a knee support and a movable torso support that is operatively connected to an actuator arrangement. The actuator arrangement moves the torso support in a vertical range of positions independently of the horizontal position of the torso support and in a horizontal range of positions independently of the vertical position of the torso support. The user engages the torso support during the raising movement during which the torso support moves simultaneously forward and upward until the person has reached a position in which he is substantially standing whilst leaning forward over the torso support (and vice versa for the lowering procedure). The torso support can also be rotated during the movement. The apparatus is provided with an identification system for identifying the person to be assisted.