Spring-Actuated Hand Exercise Device for Dynamic Grasping

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing hand mobility and strength augmentation devices are heavy, costly, cosmetically undesirable, require customization, and lack flexibility in grasping various object sizes and shapes, necessitating complex activation methods.

Innovation Solution

A lightweight, adjustable hand exercise device comprising a wrist bracelet, actuator, and fingertip brace with a spring-actuated or motor-actuated string/cable/strap system that allows dynamic grasping and finger exercise without requiring dedicated activation signals or clinician fitting.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If electric actuators are used to provide dynamic grasp force, then grasping function is improved, but device weight increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvegrasping functionVSAvoiddevice weight

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSWeight of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces electric actuators with a purely mechanical spring-based actuation system. The spring-loaded pincer mechanism uses elastic potential energy stored in springs to provide the grasping force, eliminating motors, batteries, and electronic control systems while maintaining dynamic adaptability through passive mechanical means.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The device uses the user's own hand movements to trigger the grasping action. When the user closes their hand, the fingers naturally activate the spring mechanism through the existing anatomy, eliminating the need for external power sources or electronic activation signals. The spring automatically stores and releases energy to provide grasping force.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

2Stability of the object's composition

If traditional rigid braces are used, then structural stability is improved, but hand movement capability deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestructural stabilityVSAvoidhand movement capability

Core Design Contradiction:

Stability of the object's compositionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The device transitions from a static rigid brace to a dynamic system where the pincer mechanism moves with the user's hand. The spring-loaded arms flex and extend passively as the hand opens and closes, providing structural support only when needed while fully preserving natural hand movement during non-grasping activities.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs flexible components including spring arms and a compliant pincer structure that can bend and adapt to hand movement. These flexible elements provide structural stability during grasping while allowing continuous passive motion, replacing rigid fixed structures with dynamic flexible mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

3Adaptability or versatility

If custom fitting services are provided, then device fit is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedevice fitVSAvoidcustomization process

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The device is designed as a universal solution that fits all users without customization. The pincer mechanism and wrist strap are engineered with adjustable ranges and size variations to accommodate different hand dimensions, eliminating the need for individual fitting sessions while maintaining proper fit and function for all users.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The device incorporates adjustable parameters such as spring tension settings and strap length variations that can be modified by the user themselves. This allows the same device design to adapt to different users through simple parameter adjustments rather than requiring custom manufacturing or professional fitting services.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

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

Provides dynamic grasp force for diverse objects, exercises hand function, is slim and cost-effective, and offers a comfortable, customizable fit without charging needs, enhancing hand mobility and strength.

Implementation Method 1

The actuator can be a spring-loaded retractable spool

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectSpring: Spring

Implementation Method 2

a steel or fiber cable with exemplary dimension of 1 millimeter in diameter and at least 325 millimeters long

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectTension: Tension

Data Source

PatentUS12434096B2Device for enhancing grip strength

Publication Date: 2025.10.07 HUNT THANE ROBERT

AI summary

A hand exercise device includes a first wrist bracelet; a second wrist bracelet removably coupleable to the first wrist bracelet; an actuator mounted on the second wrist bracelet with an extendable loop powered by the actuator; and a fingertip brace coupled to the first wrist bracelet.