Elastic Link Assistance Device for Independent Knee and Torso Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing assistance devices for posture transitions, such as standing up and sitting down, cannot independently control the assistance of knee bending and stretching motions and upper body posture, leading to inadequate support for individuals with varying physical capabilities.
Innovation Solution
The assistance device comprises a base, first and second links that are rotatably coupled, a third link that is also rotatably coupled to the second link, and an elastic connection portion between a fixed position on the first link or base and the third link, allowing independent control of knee motion and upper body posture assistance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a complicated force transmission mechanism is used to couple the knee joint link and torso support link, then the upper body can be supported during posture transition, but the assistance force for the torso cannot be adjusted independently from the knee joint assistance force
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the assistance device into independent functional modules: a knee joint assistance mechanism and a torso support mechanism. The knee joint link and torso support link are coupled through a simplified elastic connection portion rather than a complicated force transmission mechanism, allowing independent adjustment of assistance forces for each body part while reducing overall system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an elastic connection portion that dynamically adjusts the coupling between the knee joint link and torso support link based on real-time force requirements. This elastic connection allows the system to adapt the assistance force independently for each component while maintaining coordination during posture transitions
2Adaptability or versatility
If a rigid coupling mechanism is used between lower limb assistance and upper body support, then structural stability is maintained, but the device cannot accommodate individual physical characteristics and residual abilities
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs an elastic connection portion that changes the coupling parameters dynamically based on user needs. The elastic property allows the connection to adapt to different physical characteristics and residual abilities while maintaining stable mechanical coupling during operation, enabling personalized assistance without sacrificing structural integrity
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 configuration enables flexible and personalized assistance for both upper and lower body during posture transitions, accommodating individual physical characteristics and residual abilities, thereby enhancing the quality of life for users.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic connection portion incorporated between a predetermined position on the first link or the base and the third link
Data Source
AI summary
An assistance device that can independently control an assistance of a bending and stretching motion of a knee and an assistance of an upper body posture is provided. An assistance device includes a base, a first link fixed to the base, a second link rotatably coupled to the first link, a third link rotatably coupled to the second link, and an elastic connection portion incorporated between a predetermined position on the first link or the base and the third link.