Orthosis Rigidity Control via Falling Motion Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional orthoses lack the ability to sense falling motions and adjust rigidity accordingly, failing to provide adequate protection against injuries and not considering the cognitive state or location of the user when setting rigidity.
Innovation Solution
A control device with a sensing circuit to detect falling motions, a signal generating circuit to create a sensing signal, and a rigidity control mechanism using electrorheological or magnetorheological fluids to adjust the orthosis's stiffness based on the sensed signal, incorporating machine learning models to predict falls and adjust viscosity accordingly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional orthoses use fixed rigidity structures, then manufacturing is simple and reliable, but they cannot adapt to different conditions such as falling motions or user cognitive states
Solution Approach 1:
The orthosis transitions from a fixed rigidity structure to a dynamic system where rigidity can be adjusted in real-time. The rigidity control mechanism modifies the structural properties of the orthosis based on sensed falling motion, allowing it to adapt between rigid and flexible states as needed for protection versus comfort
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical rigidity adjustment mechanisms with a sensing and control system that uses sensors to detect falling motion and automatically triggers rigidity changes, eliminating the need for manual mechanical adjustments while achieving adaptive protection
2Reliability
If conventional orthoses lack sensing capabilities, then device complexity is low, but they fail to provide adequate protection against injuries during falling motions
Solution Approach 1:
The orthosis incorporates a feedback loop where sensors continuously monitor the user's motion state, detect falling motions, and trigger appropriate rigidity adjustments. This closed-loop control system ensures the orthosis responds reliably to actual conditions, providing protective capability when needed
Solution Approach 2:
The sensing circuit is designed to detect falling motions in their early stages, allowing the rigidity control mechanism to activate before impact occurs. This preliminary detection and response capability ensures protective rigidity is established in time to prevent injury
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
Enhances the protective capabilities of orthoses by dynamically adjusting rigidity in response to falling motions and user-specific factors, reducing the risk of injury and improving user safety.
Implementation Method 1
a sensing circuit for sensing a falling motion
Implementation Method 2
incorporating machine learning models to predict falls and adjust viscosity accordingly
Implementation Method 3
using electrorheological or magnetorheological fluids to adjust the orthosis's stiffness
Data Source
AI summary
A control device for controlling a rigidity of an orthosis, includes a sensing circuit for sensing a falling motion, a signal generating circuit which generates a sensing signal based on the sensing of the falling motion, and a rigidity control mechanism which controls a rigidity of the orthosis based on the sensing signal.