Exoskeleton Vertical Elastic Element for Spine Flexion Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing exoskeletons fail to provide adequate support for the lower back while allowing a natural range of motion, often leading to flexion-relaxation phenomena that increase the risk of low back injuries, and they struggle with asymmetric lifting poses and automatic switching between support modes.
Innovation Solution
A supporting exoskeleton with a vertical elastic element and intermittent support comprising exoskeleton vertebra elements that limit bending at a personalized maximum tilt angle, providing targeted support and preventing overstretching, while allowing for flexible movement and automatic switching between support modes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a rigid structure is used to limit the range of motion, then the maximum flexion is controlled, but the range of motion becomes very limited and does not follow the anatomy of the wearer
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a flexible beam instead of a rigid structure to follow the natural curvature of the spine while still providing flexion limitation. The flexible beam can bend and deform to match the wearer's anatomy, allowing natural movement within safe limits without the need for complex adjustment mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an adjustable mechanism that allows the maximum flexion angle to be modified based on individual wearer needs. This parameter can be changed to accommodate different anatomical variations and personal requirements, maintaining both safety and flexibility.
2Ease of operation
If flexible beams are used to increase the range of motion, then movement freedom is improved, but no individual limit on the flexion is provided
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible beam provides natural movement freedom while the adjustable mechanism ensures individual flexion limits are maintained. The combination allows the structure to adapt to wearer anatomy while preventing excessive flexion through controlled deformation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a dynamic system where the flexion limit can be adjusted based on the wearer's specific needs and anatomical characteristics. The mechanism allows real-time adaptation to different users while maintaining safety through controlled flexibility.
3Reliability
If existing exoskeletons provide support in symmetric poses, then bilateral support is achieved, but asymmetric lifting poses require the user to fight against the device
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic support mechanism that automatically adapts to asymmetric poses and lifting activities. The system detects the wearer's movements and adjusts support forces accordingly, providing appropriate assistance for asymmetric lifting without requiring the user to counteract the device.
Solution Approach 2:
The exoskeleton automatically adjusts its support characteristics based on the wearer's actions, eliminating the need for manual reconfiguration. The system self-adapts to different poses and activities, providing appropriate support for both symmetric and asymmetric movements without user intervention.
4Stability of the object's composition
If rigid links and structures are used in existing exoskeletons, then structural stability is maintained, but the natural trunk flexion range of motion is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces rigid links with a flexible beam structure that maintains structural stability while allowing natural trunk flexion. The flexible beam can deform elastically to accommodate movement while still providing necessary support and limiting excessive flexion through its mechanical properties.
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 exoskeleton effectively limits excessive bending of the lower back, preventing injuries and enabling natural movement, while allowing for asymmetric lifting and automatic switching without manual intervention, thus enhancing user safety and mobility.
Implementation Method 1
a vertical elastic element, and an intermittent support... At least said portion of the vertical elastic element is adapted to be positioned along a back spine of a person
Data Source
AI summary
A supporting exoskeleton having a rigid main body, and a hip engagement member for engagement of the rigid main body with a hip of a person when wearing the supporting exoskeleton. The exoskeleton includes first and second lower members rotatably attached to the main body such that an axis of the rotation of the first lower member substantially coincides with an axis of a rotation of a left and right hip joints of the person. The exoskeleton also comprises a differential coupler, adapted for, in an engagement mode of the differential coupler, differentially coupling the rotation of the first lower member to the rotation of the second lower member.