Modular Finger Exoskeleton Tip for Tactile Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing finger exoskeletons lack effective integration of a support structure with a tactile structure for enhanced haptic perception and usability across various applications.
Innovation Solution
A finger exoskeleton end segment comprising a support structure and a tactile structure, manufactured separately and detachably mounted, with distinct materials and mechanical properties, allowing for customizable coupling and improved tactile feedback.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the support structure and tactile structure are integrated as a single component, then manufacturing simplicity is improved, but adaptability and customization capability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The end segment is divided into two separate components: a support structure and a tactile structure. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured independently using different materials and design approaches, then assembled together. The support structure provides mechanical strength and structural integrity, while the tactile structure provides haptic feedback and user interaction capabilities, enabling both manufacturing simplicity and adaptability
2Ease of manufacture
If the support structure and tactile structure are made from the same material, then manufacturing process simplicity is improved, but functional optimization deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The invention employs different materials for the support structure and tactile structure to optimize their respective functions. The support structure uses materials with high mechanical strength and stiffness to provide structural support, while the tactile structure uses materials with appropriate haptic properties for user interaction. This composite material approach allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining manufacturing feasibility
3Device complexity
If the end segment is designed as a single integrated component, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability for different applications deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the end segment into separable support and tactile structures, the design achieves low structural complexity through modular architecture. The support structure serves as a stable base that can be configured for different applications, while the tactile structure can be varied or exchanged to meet specific functional requirements, enabling high application versatility without excessive complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The modular design allows the support structure to serve as a universal base component that can be paired with different tactile structure variations. This multi-functionality enables the same support structure to be adapted for multiple applications by simply changing or reconfiguring the tactile structure, achieving application versatility without proportionally increasing overall device 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
Enhances haptic perception and usability by providing a secure, customizable, and adaptable interface for finger exoskeletons, suitable for diverse applications including medical and assembly tasks.
Implementation Method 1
the base body of the tactile structure is sandwiched between the fingertip and the support structure. Through these openings, extensions of the tactile structure radiate from its base body, projecting beyond the outer surface of the support structure. When force is applied to these faces, for example, when grasping an object, the extensions move inwards relative to the support structure, pressing the base body of the tactile structure against the fingertip
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a finger exoskeleton end element (4). The finger exoskeleton end element (4) has a support structure (11) and a tactile structure (12), which are preferably detachably mounted together. The tactile structure (12) has a fingertip section (26) which is supported in a proximal direction on a front end region (20) of a nail bed section (13) of the support structure (11).