Remote Prosthesis Data Transfer for Adaptive Maintenance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing prostheses and orthoses require complex and time-consuming maintenance due to their reliance on predetermined configurations, limiting their robustness and stability, and user comfort during operation.
Innovation Solution
A data transfer method for prostheses and orthoses that involves collecting and storing operation and environmental data, transferring it to a remote server for processing, and adjusting configuration and behavioral data remotely to enhance user comfort and reduce maintenance needs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If data collection and processing is performed locally in the prosthesis/orthosis, then user comfort and control accuracy are improved, but device complexity and maintenance requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the data processing function from the prosthesis/orthosis device itself and relocates it to an external server. The device only collects and transmits raw sensor data, while all complex processing, analysis, and control parameter determination are performed externally. This reduces the computational burden and complexity within the implanted or worn device while maintaining accurate control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary server system that acts as a mediator between the prosthesis/orthosis and the user. This intermediary collects data from the device, processes it using advanced algorithms, and sends back control parameters. This intermediary handles the computational complexity externally, allowing the device to remain simpler while still achieving sophisticated control.
2Measurement precision
If complex sensors and processing systems are integrated into the prosthesis/orthosis, then measurement precision and control accuracy are improved, but ease of maintenance and serviceability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the complex data processing and analysis functions from the device and places them in an external server. This means that even though sophisticated measurements are taken by sensors in the device, the complex processing occurs externally where it can be updated and maintained without servicing the implanted or worn device.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the need for complex mechanical processing systems within the device with wireless data transmission and external computational processing. Instead of having powerful processors and complex systems embedded in the prosthesis/orthosis, the system uses simple data collection followed by external processing, reducing maintenance needs.
3Reliability
If frequent maintenance and servicing are performed manually, then system reliability is improved, but loss of time and operational disruption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service system where the prosthesis/orthosis automatically collects and transmits its own operational data to an external server. The server automatically processes this data, identifies issues, and updates control parameters without requiring manual intervention or servicing. This automated self-monitoring and self-updating capability maintains system reliability while eliminating the need for frequent manual maintenance visits.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent establishes a continuous feedback loop where operational data is constantly collected, transmitted, and processed. The system uses this feedback to automatically adjust control parameters and identify potential issues before they become problems, maintaining high reliability through automated monitoring rather than periodic manual servicing.
Data Source
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AI summary
A data transfer method for a prosthesis or orthosis, said prosthesis or orthosis including a data storing means and a processing means, the method comprising: obtaining data related to an operation of the prosthesis or orthosis and/or to an environment of the prosthesis or orthosis; storing the obtained data and/or processed data based on the obtained data in the data storing means; transferring, using a communication module connected to the prosthesis or orthosis, at least part of the stored data and/or processed data based on the stored data, to a remote server.