Assisted Standing Device with Lateral Gait Control and Modular Straps
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing assisted standing and walking devices for individuals with one-sided paralysis or weakness are either difficult to install, require external assistance, or are limited in their ability to facilitate controlled transitions between seated and standing positions and limited lateral gait movement.
Innovation Solution
A user-friendly assisted standing and walking device that can be attached by the user without external assistance, featuring a simple installation and release mechanism, with a body transition assist assembly providing controlled transitions between seated and standing positions and limited lateral gait movement, utilizing a combination of support rods, pivot joints, and a damping system for stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If sophisticated assisted standing and walking devices are used, then weight support and walking assistance are improved, but installation complexity and time consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into separate modular components including a waist belt assembly, thigh straps, knee straps, and foot straps that can be independently attached and adjusted. This segmentation allows users to install each component separately without requiring complete device assembly by external personnel, thus reducing installation complexity while maintaining weight support capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates self-adjusting mechanisms such as quick-release buckles, adjustable strap lengths, and self-latching connectors that enable users to install and configure the device independently without external assistance. This self-service capability directly addresses the contradiction by allowing complex functionality to be accessed through simple user-friendly installation procedures.
2Reliability
If sophisticated assisted standing and walking devices are used, then weight support and walking assistance are improved, but installation time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device features pre-adjusted strap lengths, pre-positioned connectors, and pre-configured structural components that are prepared during manufacturing. This preliminary action eliminates the need for time-consuming on-site adjustments and complex assembly procedures, allowing users to quickly attach the device to their body while maintaining full weight support functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
By segmenting the device into independently attachable components with standardized connection interfaces, the installation process is broken down into simple, rapid steps. Each component can be quickly secured without waiting for other parts to be installed, significantly reducing total installation time while preserving the integrated weight support system.
3Force
If crutches are used to transfer weight, then upper body strength is utilized, but assistance for lower extremity paralysis extending beyond lower extremity is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The device integrates multiple functions into a single system: it provides weight transfer through the upper body like crutches, while simultaneously offering direct support to the lower extremities through thigh and knee straps. The foot straps provide additional stabilization for severe paralysis. This multi-functional design allows the same device to adapt to various degrees and types of paralysis, from mild lower extremity weakness to complete paraplegia.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges the weight transfer function of crutches with the lower extremity support function of standing frames into a single integrated system. The waist belt connects to both upper body support structures and lower extremity restraint systems, creating a unified device that addresses both upper and lower body paralysis simultaneously, expanding the adaptability beyond what crutches alone can provide.
4Force
If crutches are used for weight transfer, then upper body support is provided, but assistance for transitioning between seated and standing positions is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The device combines weight transfer mechanisms with transition assistance features by integrating thigh and knee straps that provide mechanical support during position changes. The foot straps with ankle support create a stable base that facilitates the lifting motion required for transitioning from seated to standing, while the waist belt coordinates these lower body supports with upper body weight bearing.
Solution Approach 2:
The device introduces intermediary support structures between the user's body and the ground/seat surfaces. The thigh and knee straps act as intermediaries that distribute the force required for transition across multiple body points, reducing the demand on any single muscle group and making the transition process easier and more controlled.
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
Enables users with one-sided paralysis or weakness to transition easily between seated and standing positions and walk with controlled lateral movement, providing partial weight support and stability, while allowing for independent use and easy disconnection.
Implementation Method 1
a body transition assist assembly providing controlled transitions between a seated position and a standing position
Implementation Method 2
utilizing a combination of support rods, pivot joints, and a damping system for stability
Data Source
AI summary
An assisted standing and walking device for a user with at least one side paralysis or weakness is provided with provisions for assisted transitioning of the user from a seated position to a standing position prior to walking in the assisted standing and walking device with user friendly attachment and release with controlled limitation of lateral gait movement that occurs in lateral walking gait motion.