Voice-Controlled Motion Assistive Apparatus for Intuitive Walking Aid
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing motion assistive apparatuses lack precise control and intuitive adjustment capabilities, making them less effective for users with varying walking needs and preferences.
Innovation Solution
A motion assistive apparatus with a processor-controlled actuator system that includes a receiver for intuitive adjustment of assist power, response speed, and motion smoothness, allowing users to adjust torque parameters such as rise time, overshoot, and settling time based on user input, using sensors and actuators integrated into structures for the femoral, knee, and ankle joints.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a button-based control system is used to adapt assist power, response speed, and motion smoothness, then the apparatus can provide adjustable performance parameters, but the control precision and intuitiveness are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical button-based control system with a voice recognition system that uses acoustic signals to detect and interpret user commands. The voice receiver captures spoken instructions, and the processor interprets these voice signals to adjust control parameters, substituting mechanical interaction with acoustic field-based interaction for more intuitive and precise control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces voice signals as an intermediary between the user and the control system. Instead of direct mechanical button pressing, the user's intent is transmitted through voice commands that the processor interprets, providing a more natural and intuitive interface while maintaining precise control through structured voice recognition protocols.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple control parameters (assist power, response speed, motion smoothness) are adjusted through buttons, then the apparatus can adapt to different walking needs, but the adjustment process becomes complex and less intuitive
Solution Approach 1:
The voice recognition system allows users to naturally express their adjustment needs through everyday speech without requiring them to understand or navigate complex control interfaces. The processor interprets these natural voice commands and automatically translates them into appropriate control parameter adjustments, making the system adaptable to user needs while keeping the interaction simple and intuitive.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the interface modality from mechanical buttons to acoustic voice signals, fundamentally altering how users interact with the control parameters. This parameter change in the interaction mode enables users to adjust multiple parameters (assist power, response speed, motion smoothness) through natural speech without dealing with complex button combinations or menus.
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AI summary
A motion assistive apparatus may include a receiver allowing a user to intuitively adjust performance of the motion assistive apparatus and a method of controlling the same. The motion assistive apparatus may include a receiver provided to adjust variable characteristics of the motion assistive apparatus, a processor to adjust a variable parameter related to adjustment of the variable characteristics, in response to adjustment of the variable characteristics through the receiver, and an actuator to output changed assist power in response to adjustment of the variable parameter to change the variable characteristics.