Segmented Flexible Mobility Device for Shock Absorption and Propulsion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current mobility aids for humans and robots lack efficient propulsion, shock absorption, and ergonomics, leading to strain on body parts and high maintenance requirements.
Innovation Solution
A mobility device with a top and bottom segment that flexes at a joint and a curved portion, providing dual shock absorption and propulsion, made of flexible materials with minimal mechanical components, allowing for energy recovery and reduced strain on users and robots.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a rigid shaft with mechanical components (springs, motors) is used to provide propulsion and support, then sufficient support and propulsion are achieved, but the device complexity increases and maintenance requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes complex mechanical components (springs, motors, moving parts) from the mobility device, retaining only the essential segmented flexible structure. The flexible material itself provides both support and propulsion functions through its inherent elasticity, eliminating the need for separate mechanical propulsion mechanisms and reducing maintenance requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible material serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural support, absorbs shocks, and generates propulsion force through its elastic deformation. This multi-functionality replaces what would traditionally require separate mechanical components, simplifying the overall device structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a single curved flexible shaft is used for shock absorption and propulsion, then dual functions are achieved, but the flex distance is limited (8 inches) reducing propelling force
Solution Approach 1:
The mobility device is divided into multiple segments (first segment, second segment, third segment) connected by joints. This segmentation allows each segment to flex independently, increasing the total flex distance and accumulating greater elastic energy. The multiple segments working together generate stronger propelling force while maintaining shock absorption capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces multi-dimensional flexing capability through the segmented structure with joints that allow movement in different directions. Rather than relying on a single curved shaft flexing in one plane, the segmented structure can flex across multiple planes and axes, increasing both flex distance and propelling force.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If a walking aid with energy storage spring is used to minimize pressure on body parts, then shock absorption is improved, but no forward propelling force is provided
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible segmented structure continuously stores and releases elastic energy during the walking cycle. As each segment flexes during weight-bearing, it stores energy that is continuously released to provide forward propulsion, creating a continuous useful action rather than passive shock absorption only.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the compressive force (which could be seen as harmful pressure on body parts) into beneficial propelling force. The elastic deformation caused by body weight is transformed into forward motion, turning what would be pure shock absorption into active propulsion.
4Ease of operation
If multiple mechanical components (springs, moving parts, motors) are used in robot legs for propulsion, then desired mobility is achieved, but wear and tear increases requiring high maintenance
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible material structure is self-sufficient, using its own elastic properties to provide both support and propulsion without requiring external mechanical components. This self-service capability eliminates wear and tear associated with traditional mechanical parts, significantly reducing maintenance requirements while maintaining mobility.
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
The mobility device reduces wrist strain and fatigue in humans while providing efficient propulsion and energy recovery for robots, enhancing ergonomics and mobility with minimal mechanical force.
Implementation Method 1
a curved portion (105) of the bottom segment (102)... adapted to define an energy storing state and an energy releasing state
Implementation Method 2
The curved portion (105) of the bottom segment (102) is adapted to define an energy storing state and an energy releasing state
Data Source
Figure 1a
Figure 1b
Figure 2a
AI summary
The invention relates to a mobility device (100) comprising a top segment (101) and a bottom segment (102) including a first end (103) and a second end (104), the first end (103) being joined to the top segment (101). The bottom segment (102) includes a curved portion (105) positioned between the first and the second ends, wherein the curved portion (105) is adapted to define an energy storing state and an energy releasing state.