Magnetic Frame Link Coupling for Joint Exercise Assistance
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Solution Overview
Problem
In a rapidly aging society, there is a growing need for assistance devices that alleviate joint-related inconveniences and pain, particularly for the elderly or those with joint problems, while also providing a means to enhance muscular strength through exercise assistance.
Innovation Solution
An exercise assistance apparatus comprising a proximal support, a distal support, an actuator, an upper frame, a lower frame, a base link, a frame link, and at least one magnet, which works together to provide power-assisted movement and magnetic force support for joints such as the hip, knee, or shoulder, allowing for comfortable and effective exercise.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a mechanical connection structure is used to connect the base link and frame link, then the connection is strong and reliable, but the wear increases and the structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical connection structure (screws, bolts, or other fastening mechanisms) with a magnetic connection structure. The base link includes a magnet that magnetically connects to the frame link, eliminating the need for complex mechanical fastening components. This substitution maintains connection reliability through strong magnetic attraction while significantly reducing structural complexity and wear associated with mechanical contact.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnet acts as an intermediary between the base link and frame link, providing a non-contact force transmission mechanism. Instead of direct mechanical contact that causes wear and requires complex fastening structures, the magnetic field serves as an intermediary that transmits the connection force without physical contact, thereby reducing wear and simplifying the overall connection structure.
2Device complexity
If a magnetic connection structure is used to connect the base link and frame link, then the structure is simple and wear is reduced, but the connection strength may be insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes the magnetic connection strength by adjusting critical parameters including the magnetic force of the magnet, the distance between the magnet and the frame link, and the surface area of magnetic interaction. By carefully controlling these parameters, the magnetic connection achieves sufficient strength to support the mechanical loads while maintaining the simplicity and wear-free advantages of magnetic coupling.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the frame link is fixed to the base link, then the structure is stable, but the adaptability for different exercises is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic connection system where the frame link can be magnetically attached to and detached from the base link. This dynamic capability allows the structure to transition between stable connected states during exercise execution and flexible separated states for reconfiguration. The magnetic connection provides sufficient holding force for stability during use while enabling easy attachment and detachment for adapting to different exercise types and user needs.
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 apparatus effectively supports and enhances the movement of joints, improving comfort and muscular strength, while the magnetic force ensures secure attachment and reduced wear, enabling safe and efficient exercise assistance.
Implementation Method 1
at least one magnet connected, directly or indirectly, to the base link and configured to apply magnetic force to the frame link
Data Source
AI summary
An exercise assistance apparatus may include: a proximal support for supporting a proximal part of a user; a distal support for supporting a distal part (e.g., thigh or arm) of the user; and actuator that is connected to the proximal support and generates power; an upper frame connected to the actuator; a lower frame connected to the distal support; a base link connected to a first of the upper frame or the lower frame; a frame link which is connected to the other of the upper frame or the lower frame and detachably connected to the base link, and can rotate about the base link; and a magnet that is connected to the base link and exerts magnetic force to the frame link.