Shoulder Motion Machine With Multi-Axis Arm Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for exercising or stretching the shoulder lack the ability to mimic the natural range of motion and loading conditions effectively, limiting their effectiveness in improving shoulder mobility and flexibility.
Innovation Solution
A shoulder range of motion machine (SROM) with a stationary base frame and a shoulder-manipulation mechanism that includes a movable base frame, horizontal and vertical actuators, and arm-carrier supports, controlled by a controller, to provide a combination of pivoting and revolving motions that mimic natural shoulder movements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If existing devices are used for shoulder exercise, then basic movement is achieved, but the ability to mimic natural range of motion and loading conditions is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into multiple independent modules: a base frame, a movable carrier assembly, an actuator system, and a control unit. Each module performs a specific function, allowing the complex task of replicating natural shoulder motion to be broken down into manageable components that can be optimized independently.
Solution Approach 2:
The device transitions from static to dynamic operation through the movable carrier assembly that can pivot and translate along multiple axes. The actuator system dynamically adjusts the position and orientation of the carrier to replicate the complex, multi-degree-of-freedom motion patterns of natural shoulder movement, rather than relying on fixed mechanical linkages.
2Ease of manufacture
If a simple device structure is used, then ease of manufacture is improved, but the effectiveness in improving shoulder mobility is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The device replaces complex mechanical linkages with an actuator-based control system. Instead of using intricate mechanical mechanisms to achieve natural shoulder motion, electric actuators driven by a controller replicate the desired movement patterns, simplifying manufacturing while maintaining or improving therapeutic effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The device allows for adjustable motion parameters including range of motion limits, movement speed, and loading forces. These parameters can be modified through the control system to match individual patient needs and progress, enabling the same basic device structure to effectively treat various shoulder conditions without requiring multiple specialized mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
A shoulder range of motion machine includes a stationary base frame and a shoulder-manipulation mechanism including a movable base frame supported on the stationary base frame for at least pivoting motion about a main vertical axis. A horizontal linear actuator is configured to drive the movable base frame in at least pivoting motion with respect to the stationary base frame about the main vertical axis. A vertical support is mounted on the movable base frame. An arm-carrier support is mounted on the vertical support for at least pivoting motion about a main horizontal axis. An arm-carrier-angle linear actuator is configured to drive the arm-carrier support in at least pivoting motion with respect to the vertical support about the main horizontal axis. An arm carrier is mounted on the arm-carrier support. A controller is operatively connected to at least one of the horizontal linear actuator or the arm-carrier-angle linear actuator.