Eddy Current Resistive Device for Bidirectional Gait Training
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current rehabilitation devices for gait training in neurological conditions often fail to provide effective bidirectional resistance across joints, leading to irregular resistance distribution and compensatory strategies, and are hindered by low torque-to-weight ratios, making it difficult to achieve significant muscle strengthening without excessive weight or complex setups.
Innovation Solution
A wearable resistive device utilizing eddy current braking technology, which generates adjustable bidirectional resistance by converting kinetic energy into electrical currents, allowing for smooth, contact-free resistance proportional to movement velocity, integrated into a lightweight knee brace for functional strength training.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If conventional resistance devices use weights or cables to provide resistance, then resistance force can be generated, but the torque-to-weight ratio is low requiring excessively large weights or complex setups
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical resistance systems (weights, springs, cables) with an electromagnetic system. A motor coupled to a generator creates resistance through electromagnetic coupling without direct mechanical contact. The motor drives a generator, and the electromagnetic field generated provides resistance force, substituting heavy mechanical components with a lightweight electromagnetic system that achieves high torque-to-weight ratio.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical state and parameters of the resistance generation mechanism by using electromagnetic fields instead of mechanical forces. By controlling electrical parameters (current, voltage, magnetic field strength), the system can dynamically adjust resistance levels without changing physical mass or mechanical configuration, achieving variable resistance with constant lightweight structure.
2Force
If resistance is applied at the end effector region (foot or ankle), then resistance can be provided, but the resistance is irregularly distributed between hip and knee joints and compensatory strategies are promoted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a wearable harness system as an intermediary between the resistance generation mechanism and the patient's body. The harness distributes resistance forces across multiple body points (torso, hips, knees) rather than concentrating them at the ankle. This intermediary structure ensures uniform resistance distribution across all lower limb joints and prevents compensatory strategies by engaging the entire kinetic chain.
3Force
If unidirectional resistance is used to assist movement during certain phases of gait, then resistance can be applied, but bidirectional resistance requires supplementary equipment and controls
Solution Approach 1:
The electromagnetic resistance system serves multiple functions with a single mechanism. The motor-generator system can generate resistance in both directions of movement by simply reversing the direction of motor rotation or adjusting electrical control parameters. This universal system replaces what would otherwise require separate unidirectional resistance mechanisms, supplementary equipment, and complex gait-detection controls for each direction.
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 effectively increases muscle activation and improves joint kinematics, enabling more efficient gait training with adjustable resistance, reducing the need for extensive clinical therapy and promoting neuroplasticity through goal-directed movements.
Implementation Method 1
a magnetic assembly 44 configured to generate a magnetic field across a portion of the disc 42 and thereby generate eddy currents within the disc 42
Implementation Method 2
generates adjustable bidirectional resistance by converting kinetic energy into electrical currents
Implementation Method 3
generate eddy currents within the disc 42, which may be heated due to the generated eddy currents
Data Source
AI summary
A resistive device that enables adjustable resistance in at least one direction using an attachment system and associated eddy current braking system. The resistive device can be bench-mounted, in some embodiments, used for physical therapy caused by neuromuscular diseases, such as stroke and cerebral palsy, orthopedic disorders, general disuse, or even for overall fitness.