Gait-Adaptive Foot Mobility Control for Faster Walking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mobility solutions, such as bikes and scooters, require skill and fitness, and powered systems like moving walkways lack adaptability to individual user needs, making them inefficient for the final leg of commutes.
Innovation Solution
A control system for mobility devices worn on the feet, using sensors to analyze gait data and adjust motor-driven wheels for enhanced walking speed without requiring user skills or training, adapting to individual user needs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If bikes or scooters are used for the final leg of the trip, then mobility speed is improved, but the device becomes bulky and requires skill and fitness to operate
Solution Approach 1:
The mobility system is segmented into wearable components (shoes/boots with integrated motors) rather than a single bulky vehicle. Each foot receives independent motor assistance, allowing the user to maintain natural walking posture while gaining speed enhancement without requiring cycling or scooting skills
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the user's own walking motion and body weight as the power source. Sensors detect the user's natural gait and the motors assist by adding torque to the user's existing leg movements, eliminating the need for external power sources or complex control inputs from the user
2Speed
If moving walkways are used for mobility, then walking speed is improved, but the system lacks adaptability to individual user needs
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates sensors that continuously monitor the user's gait parameters, stride length, cadence, and walking speed. This feedback is processed in real-time to adjust motor assistance levels, allowing the system to adapt to each user's individual walking patterns, fitness level, and destination requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The motor assistance is dynamically adjusted based on real-time sensor data rather than operating at a fixed speed. The system can vary power output, assist during specific phases of the walking cycle, and adapt to changes in terrain or user condition, providing personalized mobility assistance
3Productivity
If powered systems are used to assist walking, then mobility efficiency is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The wearable motors serve multiple functions: they provide propulsion assistance, enable speed control, and can potentially assist with balance or elevation changes. This multi-functionality is achieved through a standardized motor design that can operate in various modes without requiring separate systems for each function
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces complex mechanical transmission systems with direct-drive or hub-mounted motors integrated into the shoe structure. This eliminates the need for chains, belts, or complex gear mechanisms, reducing mechanical complexity while maintaining mobility efficiency
Data Source
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AI summary
A system for control of a mobility device comprising a controller for analyzing data from at least one sensor on the mobility device, wherein the data is used to determine the gait of user. The gait data is then used to provide motion command to an electric motor on the mobility device.