Orthotic Device with Dynamic Rigidity for Fastener Tool Torque
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Solution Overview
Problem
Repetitive resistive forces from hand-operated tools, such as those used for installing fasteners, lead to ergonomic fatigue in operators due to the accumulation and transfer of torque and friction, causing strain on the arm and potentially resulting in injury.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable orthotic device that can be worn on a user's appendage, configured to change between a relaxed and a rigid state in response to detected resistive forces from a controller connected to the fastener installation tool, using bladders that inflate or deflate to modulate the state and inhibit movement when resistive forces exceed a threshold.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If the orthotic device remains rigid throughout operation, then the operator is protected from resistive forces, but the operator loses natural movement and control
Solution Approach 1:
The orthotic device transitions between rigid and compliant states dynamically based on operational needs. During fastener installation when resistive forces are present, the device maintains a rigid state to protect the operator. Between installations when no resistive forces are applied, the device becomes compliant to allow natural arm movement and positioning, thus resolving the contradiction between protection and mobility.
Solution Approach 2:
The device changes its mechanical parameter (rigidity) in response to detected conditions. When the controller detects resistive forces exceeding a threshold during fastener installation, it activates the rigid state; when forces are below the threshold, it returns to a compliant state, allowing the operator to maintain both protection during critical operations and natural movement during positioning.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the orthotic device is always rigid, then operator protection is maximized, but operator fatigue increases due to restricted movement
Solution Approach 1:
The orthotic device alternates between rigid protective state and compliant movement state periodically based on the installation cycle. During the brief periods when resistive forces are present (fastener installation), the device is rigid. During the longer periods between installations for repositioning, the device is compliant, allowing natural movement that prevents fatigue. This periodic switching maximizes protection during critical moments while maintaining operator endurance overall.
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 orthotic device effectively reduces ergonomic fatigue and prevents injury by distributing and displacing resistive forces, allowing for controlled movement during fastener installation, thereby enhancing operator safety and comfort.
Implementation Method 1
a bladder component configured to change from a relaxed state to a rigid state in response to a pressure differential
Data Source
AI summary
An orthotic device is provided. The orthotic device is worn on an appendage of a user of a fastener installation tool, and is configurable between a relaxed state and a rigid state. The orthotic device includes at least one activation component that is responsive to an activation signal output by a controller in communication with the fastener installation tool. The activation component changes the orthotic device from the relaxed state to the rigid state in response to the controller detecting a resistive force at the fastener installation tool during installation of a fastener.