Orthopedic Device Pivot Element with Segmented Force Transmission
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional orthopedic devices with driven mechanisms face limitations in adaptability, energy efficiency, and positioning accuracy due to the series connection of spring and force transmission elements, which leads to delayed force transmission and increased energy consumption during active displacement.
Innovation Solution
The orthopedic device features a separate spring element and force transmission element, where the spring element is not connected in series with the force transmission element during active displacement, allowing direct force transmission and enabling precise displacement without deforming the spring element, and allowing for external force-induced passive pivoting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the spring element is connected in series with the force transmission element, then the pivot element can be passively pivoted in the event of external forces, but force transmission is delayed and energy consumption is increased during active displacement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the force transmission system into two separate parallel paths: one path with the force transmission element for active displacement, and another path with the spring element for passive pivoting. This segmentation eliminates the series connection that caused energy loss, allowing the drive's force to be transmitted directly without deforming the spring element during active displacement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a parallel structural arrangement as an intermediary configuration between the drive and pivot element. This parallel structure acts as a mediator that allows force to be transmitted through multiple paths simultaneously, enabling both active control and passive compliance without interference between the two functions.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the spring element is connected in series with the force transmission element, then passive pivoting is enabled, but positioning accuracy is limited due to delayed force transmission
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the force transmission into parallel independent paths, the patent eliminates the delay caused by series connection. The force transmission element provides direct, immediate force application to the pivot element during active displacement, ensuring precise positioning without the compliance-induced delays of the spring element.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring element is pre-configured in parallel to provide immediate passive compliance when needed, without interfering with the primary force transmission path. This preliminary arrangement ensures that passive pivoting capability is always available while maintaining precise active control through the separate force transmission element.
3Device complexity
If the spring element and force transmission element are integrated, then fewer parts are needed, but the spring element cannot be exchanged independently, reducing adaptability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the force transmission system into independently replaceable modules: the force transmission element and the spring element. This modular segmentation allows the spring element to be exchanged independently to adapt to different user requirements, while the force transmission element remains unchanged, optimizing both simplicity and adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a dynamically configurable system where the spring element can be adjusted or replaced based on individual user needs. This dynamic adaptability allows the same force transmission element to work with different spring elements, enabling customization without redesigning the entire system.
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 design enhances energy efficiency, improves positioning accuracy, and allows for individualization by enabling the exchange of spring elements without replacing the force transmission elements, reducing stored parts and increasing user adaptability.
Implementation Method 1
a spring element (50) designed for counteracting passive pivoting of the pivot element into the pivoting position is assigned to the pivot element
Implementation Method 2
the force transmission element transmits the tensile force or compressive force, depending on the direction of force, to the pivot element independently of the spring element
Data Source
AI summary
An orthopedic device has a base and a pivot element which is mounted in an articulated manner on the base. The pivot element is displaceable via a force transmission element connected to a drive from a starting position into a pivoting position that is pivoted in relation to the starting position. The force transmission element permits passive pivoting of the pivot element in the direction of the pivoting position without activation of the drive. A spring element designed for counteracting passive pivoting of the pivot element into the pivoting position is assigned to the pivot element. The spring element is formed separately from the force transmission element, and the force transmission element blocks deformation of the spring element during pivoting by the drive into the respective pivoting position.