Torque Setting for Walking Assistance via Rotation Angle and Velocity
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current technologies for enhancing human muscle strength and gait assistance lack effective methods for dynamically adjusting torque based on rotation angle and angular velocity, particularly for wearable walking assistance devices.
Innovation Solution
A torque setting method and apparatus that measures rotation angle and angular velocity using sensors like potentiometers, calculates torque settings using specific functions, and adjusts torque in response to trigger signals from pressure sensors, mimicking muscle behavior to assist user gait.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If torque is adjusted dynamically based on rotation angle and angular velocity, then gait assistance effectiveness is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic torque adjustment by continuously modifying torque output based on real-time rotation angle and angular velocity measurements. The torque setting is calculated as a function of these dynamic parameters, allowing the system to adapt to varying gait conditions and provide optimized assistance throughout the walking cycle.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs feedback mechanisms where sensors continuously measure rotation angle and angular velocity, which are then fed into the torque calculation algorithm. This closed-loop control enables the system to respond to actual gait dynamics and adjust torque accordingly, improving assistance effectiveness while maintaining manageable complexity through systematic feedback processing.
2Measurement precision
If multiple sensors are used to measure rotation angle and angular velocity, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes a single potentiometer that serves multiple functions: measuring both rotation angle and angular velocity. By deriving angular velocity from the time derivative of the angle measurement, the system achieves precise measurement of both parameters without requiring separate sensors, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining measurement precision.
3Reliability
If torque is adjusted in response to trigger signals, then gait assistance timing is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses trigger signals to initiate torque adjustment at predetermined points in the gait cycle. By detecting specific events (such as foot contact or stance phase transitions) through triggers, the system can proactively prepare and apply torque at the optimal moment, improving gait assistance timing without requiring complex real-time decision-making logic.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a method and apparatus for setting a torque of a walking assistance apparatus. A rotation angle and a rotation angular velocity of the walking assistance apparatus may be measured to set the torque. An amount of torque to be set may be calculated based on the rotation angle and the rotation angular velocity of the walking assistance apparatus.