Upper Limb Rehabilitation Device With Switching Linkage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing upper limb rehabilitation support devices limit arm movement to mirror symmetrical movements and fail to apply sufficient load during rehabilitation, making it difficult to provide effective training.
Innovation Solution
The device includes a first and second handle connected to rotating shafts that incorporate gravitational loads, allowing for various movements by interlocking and switching the rotation directions of the handles, with adjustable diameters, angles, and distances to accommodate different users and rehabilitation goals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If mirror symmetrical movements are used, then the structure is simple, but the arm movement variety is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a switching mechanism that dynamically changes the connection state between the first and second handles. The switching part can connect the handles in series, parallel, or independently, allowing the system to adapt its configuration based on rehabilitation needs. This dynamic reconfiguration enables diverse arm movements while maintaining a relatively simple base structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the rehabilitation device into independent first and second handle systems, each with its own rotating shaft and connection mechanisms. This segmentation allows each handle to be controlled independently or in combination, providing movement variety. The connecting part can be configured in different ways (series, parallel, independent) to create different movement patterns.
2Force
If no gravitational load is applied, then the device structure is simple, but the load during movement is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes gravitational force as a natural counterweight to provide resistance during arm movements. By allowing the handles to move vertically under gravity's influence, the system automatically generates sufficient load for rehabilitation without requiring additional complex loading mechanisms. The gravitational force acts as an inherent resistance element that adapts to the user's weight and movement.
3Adaptability or versatility
If fixed handle diameters are used, then the manufacturing is simple, but the adaptability to different users is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates adjustable diameter mechanisms for the handles, allowing the diameter to be changed based on user requirements. This adjustability enables the device to accommodate users with different physiques and rehabilitation needs. The adjustment mechanism can be implemented through interchangeable components or adjustable structures that maintain manufacturing simplicity while providing versatility.
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
This design enables the application of sufficient loads during movements, enhancing the effectiveness of rehabilitation training by allowing for diverse arm movements and accommodating different physiques, thereby facilitating recovery and neural circuit reconstruction.
Implementation Method 1
the first rotating shaft and the second rotating shaft being directed so that rotating directions include gravitational direction components
Data Source
AI summary
An upper limb rehabilitation support device includes a first handle that is connected with a first rotating shaft, gripped by a trainee's right hand and rotated, a second handle that is connected with a second rotating shaft, gripped by a trainee's left hand and rotated, a connecting part structured so as to connect the first rotating shaft and the second rotating shaft with each other and interlock rotations of the first handle and the second handle, and a switching part structured so as to switch directions of the rotations of the first handle and the second handle, which are interlocked by the connecting part, with respect to the other handles when one of the first handle and the second handle rotates.