Leg Joint Load Reduction with Shock Absorption and Torque Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing load reduction devices become large and heavy when required to generate high torque for agile movements like running or jumping, making them difficult for users to handle.

Innovation Solution

Incorporating a shock absorption mechanism to absorb impact forces and a torque control unit to manage torque output based on the shock absorption mechanism's operation, thereby reducing the size and weight of the load reduction device.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Force

If high torque is generated for each joint to handle agile movements like running or jumping, then the torque capability is improved, but the motors and batteries become larger and heavier

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovetorqueVSAvoidweight of motors and batteries

Core Design Contradiction:

ForceVSWeight of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the torque generation function by introducing a shock absorption mechanism that handles impact forces separately from the drive mechanism that provides assisted torque. This segmentation allows the drive mechanism to be smaller since it only needs to provide torque for load reduction, not for absorbing impact forces during agile movements.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The shock absorption mechanism acts as an intermediary between the user's movements and the drive mechanism. It absorbs impact forces generated during agile movements, preventing these forces from being transmitted directly to the drive mechanism, thereby reducing the torque requirements and size of the motors and batteries.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If the load reduction device is made smaller and lighter, then the ease of operation is improved, but the torque output capability may be reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of handlingVSAvoidtorque output capability

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSForce

Solution Approach 1:

By segmenting the functions of shock absorption and torque generation, the patent enables the drive mechanism to be optimized for torque output while the shock absorption mechanism handles impact forces. This allows the overall device to be smaller and lighter while maintaining sufficient torque capability for load reduction.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent converts the harmful impact forces generated during agile movements into a beneficial function by using the shock absorption mechanism to absorb these forces. This allows the drive mechanism to focus on providing assisted torque without being overwhelmed by impact forces, enabling a smaller and lighter design.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #22Blessing in disguise (Convert harm into benefit)

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

The solution effectively reduces the size and weight of the load reduction device, enhancing user handling and mobility without compromising torque requirements during agile movements.

Implementation Method 1

a shock absorption mechanism configured to absorb impact force generated when a user moves

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectShock absorption: Damping

Data Source

PatentUS12295902B2Load reduction device, control device, load reduction method, and storage medium for storing program

Publication Date: 2025.05.13 NEC CORP

AI summary

This load reduction device is provided with: a shock absorption mechanism configured to absorb impact force generated when a user moves; a drive mechanism configured to output torque for reducing a load applied to the user at a joint of a leg of the user; and a torque control unit configured to control the torque output by the drive mechanism on the basis of operation of the shock absorption mechanism.