Exoskeleton Control Element with Haptic Feedback for Blind Operation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing exoskeletons are not designed for easy and intuitive user operation, particularly for individuals with visual impairments, and lack features for comfortable and efficient control.
Innovation Solution
An electrically operable exoskeleton with a manually operated control element that includes a pause input for deactivating assistive force, allowing blind operation through haptic and/or acoustic feedback, and customizable button arrangements for user input.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the control element is made complex with multiple buttons and functions, then the functionality and control capabilities are improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates, especially for users with visual impairments
Solution Approach 1:
The control element is segmented into multiple independently operable buttons, each with a specific function. This allows the device to handle complex control tasks through simple, discrete actions rather than requiring complex continuous control, making it easier for users with visual impairments to operate.
Solution Approach 2:
The control element provides feedback mechanisms (such as tactile feedback, vibration, or acoustic signals) to confirm button presses and operational states. This feedback loop allows users to verify their inputs and the device's response without visual confirmation, significantly improving ease of operation for visually impaired users while maintaining full control functionality.
2Volume of moving object
If the buttons are made small to reduce device size, then the device compactness is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to difficulty in locating and pressing buttons
Solution Approach 1:
Different regions of the control element have different tactile properties, heights, or textures. Important buttons may be raised, recessed, or have distinct surface patterns that make them easily locatable by touch. This local differentiation maintains compact overall size while ensuring buttons remain easily operable for users with visual impairments.
3Reliability
If the control element provides extensive feedback and confirmation signals, then the reliability of operation is improved, but the use of energy deteriorates due to continuous signal generation
Solution Approach 1:
Feedback signals are provided periodically or event-driven rather than continuously. The control element generates feedback only when a button is pressed or when a state change occurs, rather than maintaining constant feedback signals. This reduces energy consumption while maintaining operational reliability through timely confirmation of user inputs.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to an electrically operable apparatus (70), which more particularly is in the form of an exoskeleton (20) or a suctioning apparatus (80), comprising a base portion (1) for attaching to a body portion, more particularly the torso (2), of the human body, an actuation and/or drive device (501), a control device (7) for controlling the actuation and/or drive device (501), and an operating element (14), which is used for user input into the control device (7) and which can be manually operated by the user of the electrically operable apparatus (70) during the use of the electrically operable apparatus (70).