Energy Storing Prosthetic Knee Actuator with Automatic Valve Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing energy storing prosthetic knee actuators do not effectively assist amputees, particularly the elderly or those with limited physical conditions, in standing up from a seated position, and lack energy regeneration capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A prosthetic knee actuator comprising a hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder with a piston and rod, an energy storage accumulator, and an automatically operable control valve connected to sensors for detecting the user's position, allowing energy storage during sitting and release during standing, with optional features like redundant piping and a high-pressure reservoir for enhanced functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If existing energy storing prosthetic knee actuators are used, then energy storage capability is provided, but they fail to effectively assist amputees in standing up from seated position
Solution Approach 1:
The patent modifies the control parameters of the prosthetic knee actuator by introducing sensors that detect user position and automatically adjust valve operation. This enables the system to provide appropriate assist force during the standing up motion, transforming the actuator from a passive energy storage device to an active assistance system that adapts to the user's needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The prosthetic knee actuator incorporates automatic control through sensors and control valves that detect user position and regulate energy release without manual intervention. This self-service mechanism ensures reliable assistance for elderly users or those with limited physical conditions, as the system automatically adjusts to provide the necessary support during standing up motions.
2Use of energy by moving object
If energy storage accumulator is added to prosthetic knee actuator, then energy regeneration capability is improved, but device weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a pneumatic or hydraulic energy storage accumulator integrated into the prosthetic knee actuator. This fluid-based energy storage mechanism provides effective energy regeneration while maintaining relatively low weight compared to mechanical alternatives, as the accumulator utilizes the compressibility of gas or incompressibility of liquid to store and release energy during the gait cycle.
3Extent of automation
If control valve and sensor system are integrated, then automatic energy release control is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the control valve, sensors, and energy storage accumulator into a unified control system within the prosthetic knee actuator. By merging these components and their control functions into a single coordinated system, the patent achieves automatic energy release control while minimizing the increase in overall device complexity that would result from separate, independent control systems.
Data Source
AI summary
An energy storing prosthetic knee actuator and method of using such an energy storing prosthetic knee actuator comprising a hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder with a piston and a piston rod, wherein the piston and the hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder are movable with respect to each other, an energy storage accumulator and a control valve provided in piping connecting the hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder with the energy storage accumulator for controlling an exchange of fluid or gas between the accumulator and the cylinder, wherein the cylinder and the piston are connected to a user's upper leg and lower leg respectively or vice versa, and wherein the actuator is arranged to close the control valve when the user is sitting down and to open the control valve when the user is going to stand or is standing up.