Orthopedic Actuator with Elastic Mounting for Modular Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing orthopedic devices with hydraulic actuators require complex sensor systems and adaptations, making them costly and difficult to produce in a modular form.
Innovation Solution
The actuator features a main body with movably and elastically mounted fastening devices, allowing for a serially elastic connection that changes the actuator's functional properties without altering the control system or sensor technology, enabling modular design and cost-effectiveness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate sensors and control devices are used to influence flexion resistance and extension resistance, then the functional properties of the actuator can be adjusted, but the device complexity and production cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator uses its own drive mechanism to adjust the flow resistance in the connecting line, eliminating the need for separate sensors and control devices. The drive mechanism responds to control signals by positioning the piston, which directly adjusts the throttle opening, thereby changing the flow resistance and influencing flexion/extension resistance
Solution Approach 2:
The piston and connecting line with throttle form a multi-functional system that serves both as a hydraulic connection and as an adjustable flow resistance mechanism. The same components that enable hydraulic actuation also provide the means to adjust flexion and extension resistance, reducing the need for additional specialized components
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate sensors and control devices are used to influence flexion resistance and extension resistance, then the functional properties of the actuator can be adjusted, but production cost and assembly difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the functions of flow resistance adjustment into the existing hydraulic connecting line and piston system. The throttle is integrated into the connecting line, and the piston's position directly controls the throttle opening, combining multiple functions (hydraulic actuation and resistance adjustment) into a single integrated system that is easier to manufacture and assemble
3Stability of the object's composition
If the actuator is designed as a rigid system, then structural stability is maintained, but the ability to compensate for relative movements between components is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from a purely rigid structure to a dynamic system where the piston can move within the cylinder, allowing the actuator to adapt to relative movements between the upper and lower components. The hydraulic fluid and throttle mechanism provide dynamic adjustment capabilities while maintaining overall structural stability through controlled resistance
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
This solution allows for adjustable resistance in orthopedic devices without the need for complex sensors or adaptations, resulting in a cost-effective, modular, and efficient system for controlling orthopedic joint devices.
Implementation Method 1
the fastening device (41) is mounted in a receiving device (40) which is displaceable relative to the main body (10), wherein the fastening device (41) is supported in both displacement directions relative to the receiving device (40) or to the main body (10) via at least one spring element (43, 44)
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to an actuator having a main body and at least one fastening device for fastening the actuator to components of an orthopedic technical device, wherein at least one fastening device is mounted displaceably and elastically on the main body.