Walking Assistance Device Joystick Controller and Automatic Motion Following
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional walking assist devices require users to manually lift and adjust them, limiting their ability to follow user movements seamlessly and potentially causing strain, as they lack automatic power assistance and stable height adjustment mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
Integration of an electromotive device with a hover shoe and a tactile joystick controller in various walking assistance devices, allowing the device to automatically follow user movements by detecting leaning directions and providing motive force, while an adjustable height mechanism ensures ergonomic fit and easy operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional walking assist devices are used with manual operation, then device simplicity is maintained, but user strain increases and automatic movement following is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The walking assist device automatically follows user movements by detecting the user's leaning direction and autonomously adjusting its position, eliminating the need for manual lifting and repositioning operations while reducing user strain
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operation with an electromotive system that uses sensors to detect user intent and motors to execute movement, substituting the mechanical lifting and repositioning actions with an automated electromechanical system
2Ease of operation
If the device is made to automatically follow user movements, then ease of operation improves, but device complexity increases due to added electromotive components
Solution Approach 1:
The walking assist device integrates multiple functions into a single system: it provides structural support, detects user leaning direction through sensors, controls movement through electromotive mechanisms, and adjusts height, making the complex system versatile and justifying the added complexity through multifunctionality
3Adaptability or versatility
If fixed height design is used, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but adaptability to different users is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The walking assist device transitions from a fixed height design to a dynamic, adjustable height system that can be customized for different users, allowing the device to adapt its dimensions while maintaining manufacturing feasibility through standardized adjustment mechanisms
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables users to walk with reduced strain by allowing the device to automatically follow their movements and adjust height, providing stable and efficient power-assisted navigation without the need to lift the device, enhancing user mobility and comfort.
Implementation Method 1
a walking assistance device with an electro motive device that automatically follows the user's movements
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic walking assistance device, has a cane portion, having surfaces for holding against arms and/or hands of a user; and an electromotive device, which automatically creates motion to follow a movement of the user, enabling walking assistance without lifting the handle portion or the electromotive device off the ground.