Supporting Frame With Integrated Strain Gauges
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing motion assistance apparatuses for individuals with joint problems or elderly individuals do not effectively measure and transmit assistance forces efficiently, leading to inadequate support and potential discomfort or injury.
Innovation Solution
A supporting frame with a hinge connecting portion, a slidingly moving second frame, and an assistance force sensing portion, including strain gauges and deformation-resistant ribs, which measure and transmit forces to assist motion while minimizing deformation and discomfort.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If strain gauges are added to measure assistance forces, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The strain gauges are integrated directly into the frame structure itself, combining the structural support function with the force measurement function. The strain gauges are disposed on the frame members, allowing the frame to simultaneously bear loads and measure assistance forces, eliminating the need for separate measurement devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame structure serves multiple functions: it provides structural support, transmits forces, and simultaneously acts as a measurement platform through the integrated strain gauges. This multi-functionality reduces the overall system complexity by eliminating dedicated measurement components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the second frame slidingly moves with respect to the first frame, then adaptability is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to potential deformation
Solution Approach 1:
The second frame is designed to slide relative to the first frame, allowing dynamic adjustment of the frame configuration to adapt to different user anatomies and motion requirements. This sliding mechanism provides flexibility while maintaining structural integrity through proper guide portion design.
Solution Approach 2:
The guide portions are designed with specific geometric features that concentrate structural strength at critical locations while allowing sliding motion in controlled directions. The guide portions have enhanced local rigidity to prevent deformation during force transmission, while still permitting the necessary sliding movement for adaptability.
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 solution provides accurate measurement and transmission of assistance forces, enhancing the efficiency and comfort of motion assistance, reducing the risk of injury and improving muscular strength support.
Implementation Method 1
an assistance force sensing portion on at least one of the first frame and the second frame... the assistance force sensing portion may include a first strain gauge disposed lengthwise in the slidingly moving direction of the second frame
Data Source
AI summary
A supporting frame and a motion assistance apparatus including the same may be provided. In particular, the supporting frame including a first frame including a hinge connecting portion, a second frame configured to slidingly move with respect to the first frame, and an assistance force sensing portion on at least one of the first frame and the second frame may be provided.