Joint Power Control Device with Segmented Flexible Members
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional motion assisting apparatuses for joints, such as knee joints, face challenges in imparting sufficient power while minimizing the size and space requirements of the elastic structures used, leading to increased weight and restricted layout due to the need for high-stiffness springs.
Innovation Solution
A joint power control device that employs a power transmission movable mechanism with a joint interlock displacement part and flexible lengthy members, where the movement of these members is controlled to balance forces from an elastic structure and a control mechanism, allowing for efficient power transmission and reduced space usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If the stiffness of the spring is increased to impart relatively large power to the knee joint mechanism, then the power transmission capability is improved, but the weight and size of the spring increase
Solution Approach 1:
The power transmission function is divided between two separate flexible lengthy members (first and second members) instead of relying on a single spring. Each member can be optimized independently, allowing the system to achieve high power transmission without requiring any single elastic component to be oversized or overly stiff.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from linear spring displacement to a two-dimensional movement pattern where the flexible lengthy members move along curved paths defined by guide portions. This dimensional change allows the elastic structure to generate power without requiring large linear displacement space, thereby reducing the overall size and weight of the spring while maintaining power transmission capability.
2Power
If the stiffness of the spring is increased to impart relatively large power to the knee joint mechanism, then the power transmission capability is improved, but the size of the spring increases
Solution Approach 1:
The power transmission function is divided between two separate flexible lengthy members (first and second members) instead of relying on a single spring. Each member can be optimized independently, allowing the system to achieve high power transmission without requiring any single elastic component to be oversized or overly stiff.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from linear spring displacement to a two-dimensional movement pattern where the flexible lengthy members move along curved paths defined by guide portions. This dimensional change allows the elastic structure to generate power without requiring large linear displacement space, thereby reducing the overall size and weight of the spring while maintaining power transmission capability.
3Power
If a coil spring is used to generate elastic force, then the power transmission capability is improved, but the space required for the operation of the spring increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from linear spring displacement to a two-dimensional movement pattern where the flexible lengthy members move along curved paths defined by guide portions. This dimensional change allows the elastic structure to generate power without requiring large linear displacement space, thereby reducing the overall size and weight of the spring while maintaining power transmission capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible lengthy members are arranged to move within the structural framework of the joint mechanism, nesting the elastic components within the existing mechanical structure. This nesting approach minimizes the external space required while still allowing sufficient movement range for power generation.
4Power
If the spring is displaced and contracted or expanded at a side of the thigh frame, then the elastic force can be applied to the knee joint mechanism, but the layout of the constituent elements becomes restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from linear spring displacement to a two-dimensional movement pattern where the flexible lengthy members move along curved paths defined by guide portions. This dimensional change allows the elastic structure to generate power without requiring large linear displacement space, thereby reducing the overall size and weight of the spring while maintaining power transmission capability.
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
Enables the imparting of sufficient joint power with a compact, lightweight elastic structure, reducing the overall size and enhancing the placement flexibility of the power transmission components, thus addressing the limitations of conventional systems.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic structure engaged with the second flexible lengthy member such that the elastic structure generates an elastic force as the second flexible lengthy member moves
Data Source
AI summary
A present invention provides a joint power control device. A joint interlock displacement part (52) of a power transmission movable mechanism (53), which is comprising of a moving pulley (51) and the like, is connected to a joint mechanism (5) disposed between a first member (2) and a second member (3). A flexible lengthy member (32), which is one of two flexible lengthy members (32, 32) extending from the power transmission movable mechanism (53), is connected to a control mechanism (54) that controls the movement of the flexible lengthy member (32). Further, an elastic structure (31) is engaged with the other flexible lengthy member (32).