Independent Bilateral Unloading Assemblies for Locomotive Rehabilitation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing locomotive rehabilitation, therapy, and training equipment restricts natural movement and fails to provide independent unloading of body weight, leading to improper muscle exercise and prolonged recovery.
Innovation Solution
A bodyweight unloading locomotive device with independent unloading assemblies that exert bilateral support, allowing natural movement and independent unloading of both sides of the body, using a combination of flat springs, cam assemblies, and pulley systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single central harness support system is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ability to provide independent unloading of left and right sides of the body is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The single central support system is segmented into two independent unloading assemblies, each capable of providing separate unloading forces to the left and right sides of the user's body. This allows independent control of unloading on each side while maintaining overall system functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
Each unloading assembly is designed with specific local characteristics to provide targeted unloading forces at different locations on the user's body. The harness includes separate attachment points and force application mechanisms for the left and right sides, enabling differentiated support where needed.
2Force
If ceiling track systems are used to support user weight, then the unloading force is provided, but the freedom of movement is restricted to predefined paths
Solution Approach 1:
The fixed ceiling track system is replaced with mobile unloading assemblies that can be independently positioned and moved throughout the therapy space. Each assembly contains its own support structure and unloading mechanism, allowing flexible movement without constraint to predefined paths.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a static ceiling-mounted track configuration to dynamic mobile unloading assemblies that can be repositioned as needed. The mobile assemblies maintain unloading capability while allowing the user to move freely in multiple directions and locations.
3Force
If spring-based lifting systems are used, then the unloading force is provided, but the force changes as the user moves and displaces the spring
Solution Approach 1:
Each unloading assembly incorporates sensors that monitor the position and movement of the user, providing real-time feedback to a control system. The control system adjusts the unloading force dynamically to maintain a constant predetermined level despite user movement and displacement.
Solution Approach 2:
The passive spring-based mechanical system is replaced with an active control system that uses sensors and actuators to provide controlled unloading forces. This substitution allows for precise regulation of the unloading force to maintain constancy regardless of user position or movement.
4Device complexity
If harnesses support the user at a single location above the head or center of the back, then the device complexity is reduced, but the normal movement of the upper body during locomotion is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The single central support point is segmented into multiple distributed support points across the user's body. The harness system includes separate attachment and force application locations on the upper back, hips, and other body parts, allowing localized support that does not restrict natural upper body movement patterns.
Solution Approach 2:
The support force is distributed to specific local regions of the user's body rather than applied at a single central point. This localized support approach allows different parts of the body to move independently and naturally during locomotion while still receiving appropriate unloading assistance.
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
The device enables natural, independent movement by providing a consistent unloading force on both sides of the body, mimicking real-life movement and enhancing rehabilitation, therapy, or training efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The unloading assemblies (13, 14) are carried on a frame (11). The unloading assemblies (13, 14) are coupled to a harness (91) worn by a user
Implementation Method 2
using a combination of flat springs, cam assemblies, and pulley systems
Implementation Method 3
using a combination of flat springs, cam assemblies, and pulley systems
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
A bodyweight unloading locomotive device (10) includes a frame (11) mounted on wheels (12) for locomotive movement. The frame (11) has opposed left and right sides (20, 21) and a harness (91) for supporting a user (90) between the left and right sides (20, 21). An unloading assembly (13, 14) is carried on each of the left and right sides (20, 21), wherein the unloading assemblies (13, 14) each includes a sprung arm (50) having a fixed end (53) fixed to the respective left and right side (20, 21), and an opposed free end (54). The assemblies (13, 14) further each include a cam assembly (51) mounted on the free end (54) of the sprung arm (50) and a tether (52) routed through the cam assembly (51) and extending to the harness (91). Each of the unloading assemblies (13, 14) exerts an independent unloading force on the harness (91) with respect to the frame (11).