Rehabilitation Device with Force and Angle Sensors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current physical rehabilitation methods, such as Sandow bands and isokinetic machines, require therapist supervision for effectiveness and safety, limiting independent patient use and precise control over resistance forces, especially for upper limbs and varied exercises.
Innovation Solution
A device with a frame, freely rotatable members, force sensors, and angle sensors that measure and control traction forces and angular positioning, allowing for real-time feedback and autonomous patient use, enabling controlled resistance exercises in all spatial directions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If Sandow-type elastic accessories are used for rehabilitation, then the device cost is low and space requirement is minimal, but therapist supervision is required and independent patient use is not enabled
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements force sensors that measure the traction forces applied by the patient and provide real-time feedback through a display interface. This automated feedback system enables patients to independently monitor and adjust their exercise intensity without therapist supervision, resolving the contradiction between low cost and independent use capability
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows patients to autonomously control their rehabilitation exercises by selecting exercise modes, adjusting resistance levels, and monitoring their performance through the display. This self-service capability eliminates the need for continuous therapist supervision while maintaining exercise effectiveness
2Reliability
If isokinetic machines are used for rehabilitation, then maximum muscle contraction at constant speed is achieved, but the device is cumbersome and very expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses elastic bands with varying degrees of elasticity to provide progressive resistance forces, replacing the complex mechanical resistance systems of isokinetic machines. This parameter-based approach maintains reliable muscle contraction control while dramatically simplifying device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces the complex mechanical resistance and velocity control systems of isokinetic machines with simple elastic bands and sensor-based feedback. This substitution maintains therapeutic effectiveness while eliminating cumbersome mechanical components
3Force
If mechanical resistive devices with predetermined resistance are used, then mechanical resistance is provided, but the rehabilitation effect is not as precisely-controllable and may distort patient work
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamically adjustable resistance through elastic bands whose tension varies with the exercise phase and patient effort. Combined with real-time force sensing and feedback, this dynamic system precisely controls resistance throughout the movement range, eliminating the fixed resistance limitations of traditional mechanical devices
Solution Approach 2:
The system pre-calibrates elastic bands to provide specific resistance characteristics and pre-sets exercise parameters through the microcontroller. This preliminary configuration ensures precise resistance control is automatically maintained throughout the rehabilitation exercise without requiring complex real-time mechanical adjustments
4Reliability
If therapist supervision is required for effectiveness and safety, then exercise control is maintained, but independent patient use is limited and therapist time is consumed
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides automated real-time feedback through force sensors and display interfaces, enabling patients to independently monitor exercise intensity and form. This automated feedback maintains exercise control reliability while eliminating the need for continuous therapist supervision and reducing therapist time requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the human therapist's supervisory role with an automated control system comprising force sensors, microcontrollers, and display interfaces. This substitution maintains exercise safety and effectiveness while freeing therapist time for other patient needs
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
Enables safe and effective independent patient rehabilitation by providing precise control over resistance forces, allowing for diverse exercises that target all muscle groups and joints, enhancing therapeutic range and freedom of movement.
Implementation Method 1
a force sensor for the, or each, member, which measures the traction component of the forces applied to the member
Implementation Method 2
an angle sensor for the, or each, member, which measures the angular positioning of the member about the axis of rotation
Implementation Method 3
one or more elastic bands to be tensioned by the patient, such as Sandows
Data Source
AI summary
A device including a frame, that is designed to be attached to a stationary structure element, at least one member for applying the forces produced by the patient, mounted on the frame and free to rotate about an axis of rotation that is fixed relative to the frame, a force sensor that measures, in a direction radial to the axis of rotation, the traction component of the forces applied to the member, and an angle sensor that measures the angular positioning of the member about the axis of rotation.