Frame Module Reinforcement Belt for Motion Assistance Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing motion assistance apparatuses for individuals with joint problems or elderly individuals do not adequately provide support and stability, particularly in assisting lower body movements, and lack effective reinforcement mechanisms to prevent frame deformation during use.
Innovation Solution
A frame module with adjustable reinforcement belts that connect to both sides of a frame, allowing for rotational connections and forming closed loops to restrict splaying, combined with a driving module to assist joint motion and a supporting member to extend perpendicular to the user's body, enhancing stiffness and wearability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If reinforcement belts are added to connect both sides of the frame, then frame stability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The frame is divided into multiple segments (first frame, second frame) connected by hinge axes, with reinforcement belts connecting corresponding sides. This segmentation allows the frame to maintain flexibility while gaining stability through the distributed reinforcement structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The reinforcement belts merge the functional roles of structural support and stability reinforcement into a single component system. The belts connect both sides of the frame while also serving as reinforcement elements, combining multiple functions into unified structural elements.
2Strength
If the frame structure is made more rigid to prevent deformation, then support stability is improved, but wearability and user comfort deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The frame employs hinge axes that allow rotational movement between frame segments, transforming the structure from a completely rigid system to a dynamic one. This enables the frame to adapt to user movement while maintaining stability through the reinforcement belts that constrain excessive deformation.
Solution Approach 2:
The reinforcement belts function as flexible restraining elements that prevent frame splaying while allowing necessary movements. These belt-like structures provide the needed constraint without creating a completely rigid structure, maintaining wearability while improving stability.
3Reliability
If multiple reinforcement belts are added to form closed loops, then frame reinforcement is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The reinforcement belts serve multiple functions simultaneously: they connect opposite sides of the frame, provide structural reinforcement, enable adjustable length configurations, and can be detached for assembly/disassembly. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The reinforcement belts incorporate adjustable length mechanisms and detachable connections, allowing the same belt structure to adapt to different frame configurations and user needs. This dynamic adjustability simplifies manufacturing by using standardized components rather than custom-fit parts.
Data Source
AI summary
A frame module includes a frame configured to enclose a portion of a user, and at least one reinforcement belt of which both end portions are connected to both sides of the frame, thereby restricting a splaying level of the frame in a predetermined direction.