Flexible Coupling System for Artificial Joints
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Solution Overview
Problem
Artificial joints in prostheses and structural connections require a balance between flexibility and resistance to motion, as they need to mimic natural human anatomy while preventing unrestricted movement.
Innovation Solution
A flexible coupling system comprising a central assembly with a pin member, compression members, intermediary members, and a resistance member, which allows for adjustable resistance by varying the compression state of the intermediary members, enabling controlled range-of-motion and dampening.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a flexible connection is provided to allow range-of-motion, then flexibility is improved, but resistance to motion deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling system transitions from a static connection to a dynamic one by incorporating compression members that can deform elastically. The intermediary members allow the joint to adapt its resistance based on the applied load, providing flexibility during normal motion while automatically increasing resistance when excessive force is detected, thus resolving the contradiction between flexibility and motion resistance.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the physical state of the intermediary members from uncompressed to compressed as motion occurs. This parameter change allows the joint to provide low resistance during acceptable range-of-motion while generating high resistance when the range-of-motion exceeds limits, effectively resolving the contradiction between flexibility and motion control.
2Reliability
If resistance to motion is provided to prevent unrestricted movement, then safety is improved, but flexibility deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The compression members are pre-configured with elastic properties that anticipate excessive motion before it occurs. When normal range-of-motion is exercised, the members remain relatively compliant. However, when motion approaches dangerous limits, the members automatically engage their elastic resistance, providing preliminary protection against unrestricted movement and resolving the contradiction between safety and flexibility.
3Force
If a fixed connection is provided to prevent motion, then resistance to motion is improved, but flexibility deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling system is segmented into multiple independent components: compression members, intermediary members, and coupling members. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function - the compression members provide elastic resistance, the intermediary members transmit and modulate forces, and the coupling members connect structural elements. This modular structure resolves the contradiction by allowing the system to exhibit both fixed-like resistance and flexible adaptability simultaneously.
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 flexible and adjustable connection that mimics natural joint movement while preventing excessive motion, enhancing the utility and safety of artificial limbs and structural connections.
Implementation Method 1
at least one compression member in connection with the resistance member, each compression member configured to compress the at least one intermediary member between the compression member and the base
Implementation Method 2
at least one intermediary member disposed between the at least one compression member and the base
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for joining two members, comprising a central assembly within a first housing, the central assembly comprising a rotor or rotational member, a pin attached at one end to the rotor or rotational member, a base circumferentially disposed about the pin and attached thereto, a resistance member in connection with the pin, at least one compression member in connection with the resistance member, at least one intermediary member disposed between the at least one compression member and the base, a second housing in connection with the pin and first and second arm mechanisms attached at opposing distal ends of the pin.