Adapter to attach implements to an actively controlled human tremor cancellation platform
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current tremor cancellation platforms face challenges in securely and intuitively attaching different implements, particularly for individuals with hand tremors, and ensuring water-proofing, while traditional attachment techniques are inadequate.
Innovation Solution
A tremor cancellation platform with an adapter system that uses a tapered key mechanism for secure attachment, featuring a contactless power switch for activation and a compliant latch for secure fitting, ensuring correct orientation and ease of use, even for users with tremors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional attachment techniques are used, then the device structure is simple, but the attachment is not secure and not intuitive for users with tremors
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment system is divided into separate components: a handle with implement attachment means and an adapter that couples to the tremor cancellation platform. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently - the adapter provides secure attachment while the handle remains simple for the user.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter serves as an intermediary component between the tremor cancellation platform and the implement. It includes a first adapter section that couples to the platform and a second adapter section that receives the implement, mediating the connection to provide both security and ease of use.
2Reliability
If complex attachment mechanisms are used to ensure secure fitting, then attachment security improves, but ease of operation deteriorates for users with hand tremors
Solution Approach 1:
The implement attachment means includes a tapered key or bayonet-style connector that can only be inserted in one orientation. This asymmetric design provides intuitive guidance for users with tremors, ensuring correct orientation while maintaining secure attachment through the geometry of the connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter is pre-configured with the implement attachment means during manufacturing, so that when the user attaches the implement, the secure fitting is already prepared. The compliant latch mechanism is pre-positioned to engage automatically upon insertion, reducing the operational steps required by the user.
3Reliability
If the device is made water-proof, then durability improves, but attachment mechanism complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter integrates multiple functions into a single component: it provides the mechanical connection for the implement, ensures correct orientation through asymmetric features, and maintains water-proofing by forming a sealed interface with the tremor cancellation platform. This merging avoids the need for separate mechanisms for each function.
4Ease of operation
If the adapter provides correct orientation guidance, then ease of operation improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter incorporates asymmetric geometric features such as a tapered key or shaped interface that physically permits insertion only in the correct orientation. This provides intuitive, tremor-resistant guidance without requiring additional active components, displays, or complex control mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments are disclosed of an adapter for coupling an implement to a tremor cancellation platform. The adapter includes a first section attached to the tremor cancellation platform, the first section comprising an elongated tapered key having a base and a tip, the base having a greater transverse dimension than the tip and the base being attached to the tremor cancellation platform. The adapter also includes a second section coupled to the implement, the second section including a tapered cavity sized and shaped to receive the first section, and a latch to lock the second section onto the first section.