Kinetic Shape Equations for Ground Reaction Force Redirection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing technologies lack the ability to determine the optimal kinetic shape for applications that require a specific reactive force response to an applied force, particularly in devices like shoes and prosthetics, where the force redirection and rolling dynamics are not adequately addressed.
Innovation Solution
Derivation of two- and three-dimensional kinetic shape equations that allow for the design of shapes producing desired ground reaction forces by solving for applied and reactive forces, using equations such as Equations (11) and (32) to create objects with specific force profiles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If conventional shapes are used in devices like shoes and prosthetics, then the device structure is simple, but the ability to generate desired reactive forces is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by modifying the geometric parameters of the shape (radius, curvature, orientation) to control the ground reaction force characteristics. The kinetic shape equations allow systematic variation of shape parameters to achieve desired force profiles while maintaining manufacturability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by designing shapes that generate different reactive forces during rolling motion compared to static conditions. The kinetic shape equations account for motion-induced force variations, enabling the shape to adapt its force output based on rolling velocity and orientation changes.
2Measurement precision
If kinetic shapes are designed to produce specific ground reaction forces, then the force control precision is improved, but the difficulty of determining optimal shape increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex iterative mechanical design processes with analytical kinetic shape equations. These equations directly compute the optimal shape geometry from desired force specifications, eliminating the need for trial-and-error prototyping and complex simulations.
Solution Approach 2:
The kinetic shape equations serve multiple functions: they predict ground reaction forces, optimize shape geometry, and guide manufacturing. This universal mathematical framework handles various force control requirements (direction, magnitude, timing) through a single systematic approach.
3Adaptability or versatility
If rolling dynamics are incorporated into shape design, then the reactive force generation capability is improved, but the complexity of force redirection control increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs asymmetry by designing kinetic shapes with non-uniform curvature distributions that naturally redirect forces during rolling. The asymmetric geometry causes the contact point to shift in controlled ways, generating directional reactive forces without complex active control mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent addresses force redirection by incorporating three-dimensional shape features that exploit the vertical dimension during rolling. The kinetic shape equations account for forces in multiple directions (horizontal, vertical, lateral) simultaneously, enabling comprehensive force control through geometric design rather than separate control systems.
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 construction of devices like GEMS, prosthetic shoe soles, and crutches with optimized kinetic shapes that enhance gait rehabilitation and efficiency by accurately predicting and redirecting ground reaction forces.
Implementation Method 1
Kinetic shapes are shapes that can be used to provide a desired reactive force in response to an applied force. If a kinetic shape is incorporated into a shoe, for example, as the outer edges of the wheels mounted to the shoe, the force of the wearer's weight applied during a step can generate a reactive force
Data Source
AI summary
In one embodiment, a kinetic shape is designed by determining an applied force to be applied to an object that is to incorporate the kinetic shape, determining a reactive force that is desired to be produced in response to the applied force, inputting the applied force and the reactive force into a kinetic shape equation, and solving the equation to obtain the kinetic shape.