Prosthetic Hand Compact Actuation for Natural Multiaxis Motion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing prosthetic hands with movable digits lack the ability to replicate the natural, less restricted movement of a human hand and often have bulky and heavy actuation systems due to multiple actuators for each digit.
Innovation Solution
A prosthetic device with digits that can move through rotation and lateral movement, incorporating a base portion connected to an anchor via a bearing, allowing pivotal and rotational movements about multiple axes, and featuring a compact actuator system within the digit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple actuators are provided for each digit to enable comprehensive movement, then the movement capability is improved, but the device becomes bulkier and heavier
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple actuators into a single integrated actuator unit that can control multiple digits simultaneously. This merging approach reduces the overall number of separate actuator components, thereby reducing total weight while maintaining the ability to provide comprehensive movement control across multiple digits.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuator system is designed with multi-functionality to control not only the digits but also the wrist and hand posture. This universal actuator can perform multiple functions (digit movement, wrist rotation, hand positioning) that would traditionally require separate actuators, reducing the total component count and weight.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple actuators are provided for each digit to enable comprehensive movement, then the movement capability is improved, but the device becomes bulkier
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple actuators into a single integrated actuator unit that can control multiple digits simultaneously. This merging approach reduces the overall number of separate actuator components, thereby reducing total volume while maintaining the ability to provide comprehensive movement control across multiple digits.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuator components are nested within each other in a compact arrangement, with smaller components fitting inside larger ones. This nesting strategy minimizes the external dimensions and overall volume of the prosthetic hand while maintaining all necessary movement capabilities.
3Device complexity
If hinged joints are used to provide sufficient movement for essential functions, then the structural simplicity is maintained, but the prosthetic hand cannot replicate natural hand movement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic control capabilities through electronic actuators that can adjust movement parameters in real-time. This dynamic system allows the prosthetic hand to replicate natural movement patterns by controlling the timing, speed, and range of motion of each digit independently, going beyond the fixed movement ranges of traditional hinged joints.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical hinged joints with an electronic actuation system that uses motors and sensors. This substitution enables more sophisticated movement control and naturalistic motion patterns while maintaining structural simplicity through the use of modular electronic components rather than complex mechanical linkages.
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 device provides a higher degree of motion and feedback, replicating natural hand movements more accurately while being slimmer and more aesthetically pleasing, suitable for smaller hands, and enabling compound grip patterns.
Implementation Method 1
A base portion having a proximal side and a distal side connected to said anchor portion through a bearing part... Said base portion may include a second longitudinal axis X2 extending between said proximal side and said distal side and a bearing between the base portion and said anchor portion. Said base portion may be mounted to said anchor portion via said bearing and may be be rotatable about said second longitudinal axis X2.
Implementation Method 2
A first portion of a pivot connection may be mounted on the base portion. A second portion of a pivot connection may be mounted on the proximal end of the digit and may be connected to the first portion of the pivot connection. An actuator to cause pivotal movement of said digit around said pivot connection.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention provides A prosthetic device (10) having an anchor portion (30) in combination with a base portion (12) which is connected to said anchor portion (30). An elongate digit (14) is coupled to a first portion of a pivot connection (16a) mounted on the base portion (12), whilst a second portion of a pivot connection (16b) is mounted on the proximal end (14a) of the digit (14) and is connected to the first portion (16a) of the pivot connection (16). A linear actuator (40) within the elongate digit (14) has a first portion (40a) secured to the elongate digit (14) for movement therewith and a second portion (40b) remote therefrom and axially movable relative thereto and is operable with said pivot connection (16) to thereby to cause pivotal movement of said digit (14) around said pivot connection (16a, 16b) upon axial movement of said second portion (40b) of said linear actuator (40).