Variable Stiffness Force Transmitting Frame for Motion Assistance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing motion assistance apparatuses for individuals with joint problems or elderly individuals do not effectively distribute force to reduce effort while walking, often resulting in discomfort and inefficiency due to uniform stiffness throughout the frame, which does not accommodate varying flexibility needs.
Innovation Solution
A force transmitting frame with end portions having stiffness 1.5 to 20 times greater than the central area, featuring a twisted central area and adjustable intervals between inner and outer plates to accommodate different force directions and prevent separation, utilizing carbon fiber materials for enhanced strength and flexibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If uniform stiffness is used throughout the frame, then manufacturing is simplified, but force distribution efficiency deteriorates causing discomfort and inefficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The frame is designed with non-uniform stiffness distribution where the central area has lower stiffness to allow flexibility and comfort, while end portions maintain higher stiffness for structural support. This is achieved through varying the thickness or material properties in different sections of the frame, enabling each part to perform its specific function optimally.
2Productivity
If higher stiffness is used in end portions, then force transmission efficiency is improved, but flexibility in the central area deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
Different sections of the frame are designed with different stiffness characteristics. The end portions have higher stiffness (1.5 to 20 times greater than the central area) to efficiently transmit forces, while the central area has lower stiffness to provide flexibility and adaptability for comfort during motion.
3Volume of moving object
If the interval between inner and outer plates is reduced, then structural compactness is improved, but wearability and friction reduction deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The interval between the inner and outer plates is varied along the length of the frame. In the central area, a larger interval is maintained to reduce friction and improve wearability by allowing relative movement and reducing contact pressure. At the end portions, the interval is reduced to maintain structural compactness and strength where force transmission is critical.
Data Source
AI summary
A force transmitting frame may have a length greater than a width. Stiffnesses of first and second end portions of the force transmitting frame may be greater than a stiffness of a central area of the force transmitting frame in a longitudinal direction of the force transmitting frame. The force transmitting frame may include: an inner frame configured to support one side of a user; and/or an outer frame of which first and second end portions are fixed to first and second end portions of the inner frame, and of which a central portion is not fixed to a central portion of the inner frame. The central portion of the outer frame may be configured to slide with respect to the central portion of the inner frame.