Gait Training Device Linkage Mechanism for Adjustable Stride
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current gait training methods for rehabilitation are imprecise, labor-intensive, and costly, making them unsustainable and inaccessible to many who need them, as they require hands-on therapist manipulation and complex equipment.
Innovation Solution
A gait training device that uses a simple, affordable design with linkages, boots, and a crank assembly to automatically adjust stride length and hip and knee flexion, allowing for both independent and therapist-assisted use, and can be used with a treadmill, providing variable and dynamic support for progressive neuromuscular development.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If hands-on therapist manipulation is used for gait training, then patient guidance through gait cycle is achieved, but labor intensity increases and sustainability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The gait training device enables self-service operation where the patient independently performs the training exercises without requiring continuous hands-on manipulation from the therapist. The patient can autonomously complete gait training cycles, improving sustainability while reducing therapist labor intensity.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical gait training device serves as an intermediary between the patient and the training process. The device provides structured guidance through its mechanical constraints and movements, replacing the need for continuous therapist manipulation while maintaining training effectiveness.
2Extent of automation
If complex gait training machines are used, then automated gait training is achieved, but cost increases and accessibility decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The gait training device is segmented into simple, discrete mechanical components including linkages, pivots, and guides. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured independently using basic fabrication methods, significantly reducing overall device cost while maintaining automated training capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The device employs simple mechanical elements that can be manufactured at low cost, replacing expensive automated gait training systems. The design prioritizes affordability and accessibility, creating a device that can be produced economically and deployed widely.
3Stability of the object's composition
If fixed gait pattern is imposed, then training consistency is achieved, but adaptability to patient-specific needs decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The gait training device incorporates adjustable parameters including variable stride length, modifiable hip and knee flexion angles, and adjustable timing. These dynamic adjustments allow the device to adapt to different patient needs while maintaining consistent gait pattern training, resolving the contradiction between stability and adaptability.
Data Source
AI summary
A gait trainer adapted for use with a treadmill and, optionally, a spinning cycle, provides greater accessibility for therapeutic and rehabilitative gait pattern training to individuals confronting injury, illness, or disability. The gait trainer is adjustable, to accommodate a wide variety of users with different stride lengths and needs.