Postural Lifting Exoskeleton With Oscillating Footplate for Standing Work
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mobility devices, such as electric wheelchairs, do not adequately support individuals with disabilities in transitioning between sitting and standing positions, particularly in work environments like assembly lines, leading to accessibility challenges and health issues due to prolonged orthostatic positions.
Innovation Solution
A postural lifting exoskeleton equipped with electric actuators and a footplate that allows users to transition between sitting and standing positions, featuring ergonomic adjustments and an oscillating footplate to improve blood circulation, while incorporating safety features like anti-fall wheels and a four-point supporting belt.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If electric wheelchairs are used for mobility, then mobility is improved, but support for transitioning between sitting and standing positions is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The exoskeleton system is integrated with the wheelchair to create a multi-functional device that provides both mobility (wheelchair function) and postural transition capability (exoskeleton function). The electric actuators enable the system to perform multiple functions: moving the wheelchair and transforming between sitting and standing positions, thereby resolving the contradiction between mobility and postural adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the wheelchair and exoskeleton into a single integrated system. The exoskeleton frame is attached to the wheelchair structure, and the electric actuators are mounted on the wheelchair to power the postural transitions. This merging allows the device to simultaneously provide mobility and orthostatic position support.
2Productivity
If individuals work in orthostatic positions for extended periods, then productivity is improved, but health issues arise due to prolonged standing
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically transitions between sitting and standing positions based on work requirements and user needs. The electric actuators enable smooth transformations between postures, allowing individuals to maintain productivity in orthostatic positions when needed while being able to return to sitting positions to prevent health issues from prolonged standing.
Solution Approach 2:
The exoskeleton enables periodic alternation between sitting and standing positions during work activities. Users can switch between postures at regular intervals or as needed, preventing the harmful effects of continuous prolonged standing while maintaining the ability to work in orthostatic positions when productivity requires.
3Adaptability or versatility
If postural transition mechanisms are added to wheelchairs, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The exoskeleton system is divided into modular components: a frame structure with specific geometric configurations, multiple electric actuators positioned at different locations, control systems, and support elements like footplates and safety belts. This segmentation allows for manageable complexity while achieving comprehensive postural transition 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 individuals with disabilities to work in an orthostatic position safely and productively, improving blood circulation, reducing health risks, and enhancing autonomy and inclusivity in work environments.
Implementation Method 1
The exoskeleton may include a chair, a set of electric actuators, and a footplate. The chair may include a first portion and a second portion, in which (i) a first armrest may be affixed to a right side of the first portion and a second armrest may be affixed to a left side of the first portion
Implementation Method 2
the footplate's oscillatory movement may cause the user's ankles to move upwards and downwards in order to improve the user's blood circulation
Data Source
AI summary
A postural lifting exoskeleton includes: a chair, in which (i) the chair includes a first portion and a second portion and (ii) a first armrest is affixed to a right side of the first portion and a second armrest is affixed to a left side of the first portion; a set of electric actuators including at least a first electric actuator and a second electric actuator, in which, upon receiving a first request from a user via a first control panel, a second control panel triggers at least the first electric actuator and the electric actuator to transform the exoskeleton from a first position to a second position; and a footplate, in which, once the user is in an orthostatic position, the footplate's oscillatory movement causes the user's ankles to move upwards and downwards in order to improve the user's blood circulation.