Wearable Robotic Hip Joint Support via Cam Spring Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wearable robotic devices for assisting in squatting and heavy lifting tasks are bulky, heavy, and require manual activation, often interfering with non-squat tasks and failing to provide unencumbered movement, leading to user fatigue and joint strain.
Innovation Solution
A lightweight wearable mechanical robotic device that provides assistance torque to the hip joint using a cam and spring mechanism, with a pin lock system and microprocessor-controlled actuation to adjust torque based on user posture, allowing for automatic engagement and disengagement based on center of gravity, reducing the need for manual operation and minimizing weight and bulk.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If current wearable robotic systems are used to assist in squatting and heavy lifting, then joint support and weight assistance are improved, but device weight and bulk increase significantly encumbering the worker
Solution Approach 1:
The device segments the assistance function into two parts: a passive spring mechanism that provides continuous mechanical support for squatting and heavy lifting, and an active motor system that only engages when sensor detection indicates non-squat activities require assistance. This segmentation allows the heavy duty support function to be provided by the lightweight spring while the motor remains dormant during squatting tasks.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts its assistance level based on real-time sensor feedback about user posture and activity type. The motor controller receives signals from sensors detecting hip angle, acceleration, and position to determine whether to engage the motor or rely on passive spring assistance, creating a dynamic adaptation that optimizes weight distribution between active and passive support mechanisms.
2Ease of operation
If manual activation systems are used, then device control is simplified, but user intervention is required constantly increasing operational complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-service by using onboard sensors to automatically detect the user's activity state and autonomously control motor engagement without requiring manual input. The sensor suite monitors hip angle, acceleration, and position to determine when squatting assistance is needed versus when motorized support for other activities should be activated, making the device self-regulating.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system implements continuous feedback loops where sensors monitor user posture and activity type, feed this information to the motor controller, which then adjusts motor engagement accordingly. This closed-loop feedback enables automatic differentiation between squatting tasks (passive spring support) and other activities (active motor support) without user intervention.
3Force
If the device provides continuous assistance, then support is maximized, but power consumption increases and battery life decreases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of continuous motor operation, the system employs periodic motor activation triggered only when sensor detection indicates non-squat activities require assistance. During squatting tasks, the motor remains inactive and the spring provides periodic mechanical assistance naturally, creating a rhythm of active and passive support that dramatically reduces overall power consumption while maintaining adequate assistance levels.
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies different quality of assistance locally: passive spring support with no power consumption during squatting activities, and active motor support with full power during other activities. This local differentiation of assistance quality based on activity type allows maximization of support where needed while minimizing energy use where passive mechanics suffice.
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 comfortable and efficient completion of non-squat tasks without conscious deactivation, encourages proper recovery posture, saves power, and provides a robust and repeatable robotic assistance for joint support, reducing user fatigue and joint strain.
Implementation Method 1
A cam follower that coupled to a plunger and engaged by the cam, wherein the plunger compresses a spring against a base
Data Source
AI summary
A housing can have a first attachment point for an actuator wherein the actuator can be attached to the housing and a pin lift plow. The wearable mechanical robotic device can have a rolling pin lock. A cam wherein the cam can rotate around an axis and can come into contact with a cam follower and the rolling pin lock. A plunger wherein the plunger can be attached to the cam follower wherein the plunger compresses a spring against a base. An outer frame having at least one guide for the rolling pin lock. The housing can have at least one second attachment point wherein at least one frame is attached to the housing by at least one fastener.