Wearable Robot Link Module for Clavicle Motion Adaptation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing exoskeleton robots worn on the upper body do not adapt to protraction and retraction motions of the clavicle, restricting movement and compromising wearing comfort.
Innovation Solution
A wearable robot design featuring a link module with rotatable links that adjust to mimic the clavicle's motion, including a rear body unit and joint module that assists shoulder and elbow movements, allowing the robot's shape to change with user movements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If the exoskeleton robot maintains a fixed structure, then the structural stability is improved, but the adaptability to clavicle motion deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The exoskeleton robot incorporates a dynamic link module with multiple rotatable links (first link, second link, third link, fourth link) that can change configuration in real-time. The link module includes rotatable joints at key positions, allowing the structure to adapt dynamically to clavicle protraction and retraction motions while maintaining structural integrity through controlled mechanical connections.
2Device complexity
If the exoskeleton robot uses a simple structure, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ability to accommodate clavicle motion deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The robot is divided into distinct functional modules: a rear body unit and a link module with multiple segments (first link, second link, third link, fourth link). Each link can rotate independently at specified joints, allowing the system to achieve complex clavicle motion accommodation through coordinated movement of segmented components rather than a single complex mechanism.
3Manufacturing precision
If the exoskeleton robot maintains a fixed shape, then the manufacturing precision is improved, but the wearing comfort deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The robot employs a dynamic shape-changing mechanism through rotatable links and joints that allow the overall configuration to adapt to clavicle motion. The link module can transition between different spatial arrangements while maintaining precise mechanical connections, enabling the robot to preserve manufacturing precision in individual components while achieving variable overall shape for comfort.
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
Enhances wearing comfort by accommodating natural clavicle motions, improving the robot's ability to assist upper body movements while maintaining comfort and functionality.
Implementation Method 1
a second link rotatably coupled to one side of the first link, a third link rotatably coupled to one side of the first link
Implementation Method 2
a fourth link, of which one side is rotatably coupled to the second link and another side is rotatably coupled to the third link
Data Source
AI summary
An embodiment wearable robot includes a rear body unit configured to be provided in close contact with a rear side of a user, the rear body unit including a first link, and a link module having a first side coupled to the rear body unit and a second side configured to be positioned on a shoulder of the user, the link module including a second link rotatably coupled to a first side of the first link, a third link rotatably coupled to a second side of the first link, and a fourth link having a first side rotatably coupled to the second link and a second side rotatably coupled to the third link, the fourth link being configured to extend to the shoulder of the user.