Natural Gait Ergometer with Rotational Modules
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Individuals with mobility impairments due to conditions like Multiple Sclerosis, stroke, Parkinson's Disease, and spinal cord injuries, as well as seniors, face challenges in maintaining mobility, leading to adverse health effects and loss of independence, as existing solutions do not provide a convenient, compact, and effective means to stand and walk safely and independently.
Innovation Solution
A natural gait upper body ergometer and gait trainer (UBEGT) device with a support frame, rotationally coordinated left and right natural gait modules, an upper body ergometer, and a walk control module that transitions between standing and walking modes, along with a lifting module and functional electrical stimulation, to assist users in simulating a natural gait cycle.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If existing mobility solutions are used, then individuals can maintain some level of mobility, but they cannot stand and walk independently, leading to loss of independence and adverse health effects
Solution Approach 1:
The device introduces a mechanical intermediary system (frame with rotational modules) that mediates between the user's limited mobility capabilities and the desired standing/walking function. The rotational modules act as intermediaries that convert upper body motion into coordinated lower body movement, enabling independent operation while maintaining safety through controlled mechanical guidance.
Solution Approach 2:
The device changes the operational parameters by transitioning between different modes (stationary to walking) and adjusting the rotational characteristics of the modules. The system modifies the degree of freedom and motion parameters to adapt to user needs, allowing progression from supported standing to active walking while maintaining reliability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a comprehensive gait training device is provided, then health benefits are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device is segmented into distinct functional modules: a support frame, multiple rotational modules (each with upper and lower arms), and a control system. This segmentation allows each component to perform a specific function while maintaining overall versatility. The modular structure reduces complexity by making the system manageable through discrete, interchangeable units.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotational modules are designed to perform multiple functions: they provide structural support, enable gait training through coordinated rotation, and accommodate various exercise intensities. The same mechanical structure serves both as a support framework and as an active training mechanism, reducing the need for separate components and thereby managing complexity while maintaining adaptability.
3Reliability
If rotational modules are used to simulate natural gait, then gait training effectiveness is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The rotational modules employ asymmetric linkage configurations where upper and lower arms have different lengths and attachment points. This asymmetry mirrors the natural human gait pattern where the thigh and shin segments differ in length and function. The asymmetric design improves gait simulation accuracy by replicating the non-uniform motion characteristics of natural walking, while the modular nature keeps mechanical coordination manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses dynamic rotational joints that allow continuous adjustment of motion parameters during operation. The rotational modules can adapt their movement characteristics in real-time to match natural gait patterns, improving simulation accuracy. The dynamic nature of the joints allows the system to transition smoothly between different phases of the gait cycle without requiring complex fixed mechanisms.
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 to safely and independently stand and walk, promoting health benefits such as improved muscle strength, balance, and cardiovascular function, while preventing costly medical issues and supporting aging in place.
Implementation Method 1
functional electrical stimulation, to assist users in simulating a natural gait cycle
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatus and associated methods may relate a to natural gait upper body ergometer and gait therapy (UBEGT) device having a support frame within which is suspended rotationally coordinated left and right natural gait modules (NGMs). A position of each NGM may be defined by corresponding left and right pivot arms which are rotatably coupled to a left and right side of the support frame, respectively, and wherein each gait training module is provided with a corresponding foot support and knee support. The UBEGT may be provided with an upper body ergometer (UBE) rotatably coupled to a front of the support frame and configured to rotate a shaft rotatably connected to the left and right pivot arms when a hand crank is rotated.