Exoskeleton Tensioning System with Dial Mechanism
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing adjustment systems for exoskeletons and orthopedic devices are cumbersome, costly, and difficult to use, often requiring multiple adjustments and providing insufficient tensioning options, leading to discomfort and poor fit due to the challenge of accommodating varying user dimensions and dynamic needs.
Innovation Solution
A simplified adjustment system that uses a dial-tensioning device and elastic components with indicia to intuitively and accurately apply tension to attachment components, allowing for simultaneous adjustment of multiple components while maintaining load-bearing functionality, reducing the need for multiple tensioning systems and enhancing user experience.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate tensioning systems are used to adjust different components, then each component can be adjusted independently, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple tensioning functions into a single integrated tensioning device that can simultaneously adjust multiple attachment components. This consolidation reduces the overall number of separate tensioning systems while maintaining the ability to independently adjust each component, thereby resolving the contradiction between adaptability and device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The tensioning device is designed with multi-functionality to perform multiple adjustment operations through a single mechanism. This universal design allows one device to replace several separate tensioning systems, reducing complexity while preserving full adjustment capability across all attachment components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If existing adjustment systems are used, then components can be adjusted, but the systems are cumbersome and difficult to use
Solution Approach 1:
The tensioning device incorporates self-adjusting features that allow users to easily regulate tension without complex procedures. The design includes intuitive mechanisms that automatically maintain proper tension levels, reducing the effort and knowledge required for operation while preserving full adjustability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables easy adjustment of tension parameters through a simplified interface that allows users to change tension levels without complex mechanical manipulations. This approach maintains full adjustability while dramatically improving ease of operation through intuitive parameter control.
3Adaptability or versatility
If existing adjustment systems are used, then components can be tensioned, but the systems are costly and provide insufficient tensioning options
Solution Approach 1:
By merging multiple tensioning functions into a single device, the patent reduces the total component count and assembly complexity, leading to lower manufacturing costs. The integrated design maintains multiple tensioning options through versatile adjustment mechanisms while being more cost-effective to produce than multiple separate systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides multiple tensioning options through adjustable parameters within a single device architecture, eliminating the need for multiple fixed-tension systems. This parametric approach offers versatility in tensioning options while reducing manufacturing complexity and cost compared to providing multiple discrete tensioning devices.
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 system provides a cost-effective, intuitive, and accurate method for adjusting components, ensuring proper fit and comfort by allowing users to easily regulate tension levels, reducing manufacturing complexity, and maintaining consistent load-bearing capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
elastic components with indicia to intuitively and accurately apply tension to attachment components
Data Source
AI summary
An adjustment system is arranged to be mounted on a frame of a body interface, and includes a tensioning device in cooperation with a tensioning element, at least one elastic component, and at least one connector. The adjustment system can adjust at least one of the connectors, which in turn may carry additional components such as assistive devices in an exoskeleton device, assistive device, orthopedic device, or prosthetic device.