Three-Axis Lifting Unit for Safe Sit-to-Stand Training
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Solution Overview
Problem
Elderly individuals and those with reduced physical capacity face challenges in performing sit-to-stand movements due to weakened lower body musculature, which increases the risk of falls and joint discomfort, and existing devices often lack versatility and support for safe, effective training.
Innovation Solution
A lifting apparatus with a chassis, support structure, and a lift mechanism that moves in three axes, assisted by actuators and a controller, allowing customizable trajectories for safe and effective sit-to-stand exercises, integrated with an exercise system for monitoring and feedback.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If existing devices are used to assist standing, then assistance is provided, but the devices are limited to a single axis of movement and are large and bulky
Solution Approach 1:
The lifting apparatus is designed with a multi-axis movement capability (three axes: vertical, horizontal, and rotational) that allows it to perform multiple functions including assisting with sit-to-stand movements, providing balance support, and enabling exercise training. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for multiple separate single-axis devices, reducing overall device volume while increasing versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus employs dynamic movement along three axes rather than a fixed single-axis mechanism. The lifting unit can move vertically to assist standing, horizontally to provide balance support, and rotate to accommodate different user positions and exercise angles. This dynamic multi-axis design allows the same compact structure to adapt to various training requirements without requiring multiple separate devices.
2Strength
If multiple repetitions of sit to stand movements are performed, then muscle strength is improved, but lower limb muscle fatigue increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates sensors that monitor user position, movement speed, and force application during sit-to-stand exercises. This feedback is processed by a controller that adjusts the assistance force in real-time, reducing it as the user gains strength and increasing support when fatigue is detected. This prevents excessive fatigue and ensures safe exercise progression while maintaining training effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus dynamically changes operational parameters including assistance force magnitude, movement speed, and range of motion based on user performance. As users improve their lower limb strength through repeated exercises, the system gradually reduces assistance and increases exercise intensity, allowing continuous strength improvement while preventing dangerous fatigue levels through controlled parameter adjustment.
3Strength
If sit to stand training is performed without support, then muscle strength is trained, but balance problems make it challenging and unsafe
Solution Approach 1:
The lifting apparatus serves as an intermediary between complete support and independent exercise. It provides adjustable mechanical assistance that gradually decreases as user strength improves, while simultaneously offering balance support through its stable base and positioning system. This intermediary support enables users with balance problems to perform sit-to-stand training safely without requiring constant human supervision or assistance.
4Strength
If joint pain is present, then exercise is needed to improve strength, but joint discomfort increases during sit to stand training
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus replaces the mechanical stress that would normally be placed on user joints during unassisted sit-to-stand movements with a controlled mechanical assistance system. The actuators provide smooth, controlled force that supports the user's weight and reduces the load on painful joints, allowing strength training to continue without exacerbating joint discomfort.
Data Source
AI summary
A lifting apparatus for assisting a user to stand including a chassis, a support structure extending upward from the chassis, a lift mechanism disposed on the support structure, a lifting unit adapted to couple to the lift mechanism and bear the weight of a user, wherein the lifting unit is moveable in three axes and moveable from a first position to a second position, and; wherein the lift mechanism is configured to move the lifting unit, and the lifting unit is configured to assist a user to a standing position from a seated position as the lifting unit is moved from a first position to a second position.