Prosthetic Control Apparatus Using Sensor-Based Signal Processing

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Current control systems for prosthetic devices lack efficient and accurate processing of user signals for smooth directional and proportional control, leading to jerky or choppy movements.

Innovation Solution

A prosthetic device control apparatus comprising sensors and control modules, where sensors detect body input and communicate movement information to the control module, which translates this information into proportional control of prosthetic devices, using wireless communication and sensors integrated into footwear or prosthetic support apparatus.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional control systems are used for prosthetic devices, then the device can be operated, but the movement becomes jerky and choppy due to inefficient signal processing

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesmoothness of movementVSAvoidsignal processing efficiency

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical control systems with a sensor-based electronic control system. Sensors detect body input signals and communicate them to control modules that process the signals wirelessly, substituting mechanical linkages with electronic detection and communication systems to achieve smoother, more efficient signal processing and prosthetic movement control.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Measurement precision

If sensors are integrated into footwear or prosthetic support apparatus, then control precision is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvebody input detection accuracyVSAvoidcontrol system structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent integrates sensors into multi-functional components such as footwear or prosthetic support apparatus. These components serve both their traditional support functions and the additional function of detecting body input signals, thereby improving measurement precision without proportionally increasing overall device complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces wireless communication as an intermediary between sensors and control modules. This intermediary enables precise signal transmission without requiring complex physical connections, reducing the overall system complexity while maintaining high measurement precision.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Ease of operation

If wireless communication is used between sensors and control module, then ease of operation is improved, but energy consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecontrol system usabilityVSAvoidsensor and control module power consumption

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces wired mechanical connections with wireless communication systems. This substitution eliminates the need for physical connectors and simplifies the user interface, significantly improving ease of operation. The wireless technology enables seamless signal transmission between sensors and control modules without requiring users to manage physical connections.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentUS11103368B2Apparatus for control of a prosthetic

Publication Date: 2021.08.31 DEKA PRODUCTS LP

AI summary

A prosthetic device control apparatus includes at least one sensor worn by a user. The sensor(s) determines a user's movement. A control module is in communication with the sensor(s). The control module communicates movement information to a prosthetic. A method for controlling a prosthetic device includes sensing a user's movement, communicating the movement through a control module to a prosthetic device; and controlling the movement of a prosthetic device.