Electromagnetic Platform Deflection for Unpredictable Balance Training
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current perturbation training devices are limited by predictable platform deflections, allowing patients to easily anticipate and react to movements without engaging their sense of balance, reducing the effectiveness of the training in preventing falls and injuries.
Innovation Solution
A training arrangement with drive means that deflects a platform in multiple random horizontal directions, utilizing electromagnetic drive systems controlled by a random number generator, allowing for unpredictable movements that require patients to rely solely on their balance, combined with mechanical decoupling and adjustable deflection parameters for enhanced training efficacy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a platform is mechanically decoupled from the stand using passive training devices, then the platform can be deflected by the patient or physiotherapist, but the deflections become predictable and easily perceivable by the patient, reducing training effectiveness
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces passive mechanical deflection systems with an active electromagnetic drive mechanism. The drive means, comprising electromagnetic actuators, directly couple the platform to the stand and actively generate unpredictable deflections in multiple directions, eliminating the predictability inherent in passive mechanical systems while maintaining mechanical decoupling characteristics.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transforms the static, passive mechanical decoupling system into a dynamic system where the drive means actively control platform deflections. The system can adapt deflection parameters (direction, magnitude, frequency) in real-time based on random number generation, making the training stimulus unpredictable and dynamically adjustable to patient needs.
2Device complexity
If the platform is deflected in a single horizontal direction, then the mechanical decoupling is simple to implement, but the training effect is limited due to predictable deflection patterns
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extends platform deflection from a single horizontal direction to multiple horizontal directions (at least first and second perpendicular directions) through the electromagnetic drive mechanism. This multi-directional capability significantly increases training effectiveness by creating unpredictable deflection patterns while the drive means are integrated into the existing mechanical decoupling structure, minimizing additional complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The drive means serve multiple functions: they maintain mechanical decoupling, generate deflections in multiple directions, provide unpredictable random deflections, and can be controlled through a random number generator. This multi-functionality achieves enhanced training effectiveness without proportionally increasing device complexity.
3Reliability
If electromagnetic drive means are used to deflect the platform in multiple random directions, then the randomness and training effect increase significantly, but the device complexity and control requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses a random number generator to automatically determine deflection parameters without requiring external input or complex control algorithms. The drive means respond directly to random numerical inputs, generating unpredictable deflections autonomously. This self-service approach maximizes training effectiveness while minimizing control system complexity.
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 solution significantly increases the randomness and training effect by ensuring patients cannot predict deflection direction or intensity, enhancing balance and stability training through precise control and reduced noise, thus improving fall prevention and injury rehabilitation outcomes.
Implementation Method 1
drive means (110) configured to deflect the platform (106) at least in a first (horizontal) and a second direction
Implementation Method 2
The platform is mechanically decoupled from the stand device by means of springs
Data Source
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AI summary
The arrangement (100) has a platform (106) supported in a direction and mechanically decoupled from a stand device (102). The platform comprises a standing area for a person. A drive unit i.e. electromagnetic drive unit, deflects the platform in the direction relative to the stand device. A magnet (112) is arranged at the platform, and electrical coils (114) are arranged at the stand device. The magnet projects into an intermediate area formed between the coils. The drive unit comprises an electric motor, a linear motor and a pneumatically or hydraulically-driven lifting cylinder.