Robotic Massage Therapy System with Multi-Axis Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current physical therapy treatments for neurological and neuromuscular disorders are limited by the range of motion in massage therapy delivery, the effectiveness of control algorithms, and the high cost of advanced systems, making them inaccessible to the general public for consistent use.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a Z-axis, X-axis, and Y-axis support members with actuators and a processor that receives input from imaging sensors and user data to control a massage therapy device, allowing for real-time adjustment and personalized therapy plans, including AI-generated body scan data points and pressure sensing for precise treatment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional therapy devices are used, then massage therapy can be provided to patients, but the range of motion for delivery of massage therapy is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dimensionality change by introducing a robotic arm mechanism with multiple degrees of freedom (X, Y, Z axes) that enables the massage device to move in three-dimensional space. This allows the therapy device to reach areas of the patient's body that were previously inaccessible to conventional massage devices, significantly expanding the range of motion while maintaining manageable device complexity through modular actuator design.
2Reliability
If advanced massage therapy systems are used, then treatment efficacy is improved, but the cost is too high for general public purchase and limited to institutional use only
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the advanced therapy system into modular components: a robotic arm with independent X, Y, Z axis actuators, a separate control system with processors, and an attachable massage device. This modular architecture allows for standardized manufacturing of individual modules, reducing overall production costs while maintaining treatment efficacy. The segmented design also enables selective assembly based on specific therapeutic needs, making the system more accessible to the general public.
3Ease of operation
If massage therapy devices are made accessible for home use, then accessibility is improved, but the ability to provide effective control based on real-time patient input is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies feedback by incorporating sensors that detect real-time patient responses during massage therapy sessions. The system includes force sensors that measure pressure applied to the patient's body and position sensors that track the robotic arm's movement. This feedback is processed by the control system to automatically adjust massage parameters such as pressure, speed, and duration, enabling effective real-time control even when the device is used independently at home without direct therapist supervision.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments describe a system for facilitating physical massage therapy of a patient. The system comprises of an X-axis support member and actuator; a Y-axis support member and actuator; and a Z-axis support member and actuator. The Z-axis support member includes a mounting surface at its distal end for the mounting of a therapy device. The X-axis support member is operably coupled to the Z-axis support member, and the Y-axis support member is operably coupled to the X-axis support member. The Z-axis actuator is configured to move the Z-axis support member along the Z-axis; the X-axis actuator is configured to move the Z-axis support member along the X-axis; and the Y-axis actuator is configured to move the X-axis support member along the Y-axis. A graphical user interface is configured to control the operation of the actuators, receive input from a user, display data from a network device, and generate control signals.