Wearable Torque Assistance Control for Personalized Gait Training
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing walking assistance devices do not effectively adapt to individual user movements to provide personalized torque assistance or resistance, limiting their effectiveness in rehabilitation and training.
Innovation Solution
A wearable device that includes sensors and motors to detect user movement, adjust torque intensity and direction based on calculated differences, and utilize a motor driver circuit to output assistance or resistance torques, with optional remote training systems for synchronized movement learning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a walking assistance device provides fixed torque assistance, then the device structure is simple, but it cannot adapt to individual user movements for personalized rehabilitation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic torque adjustment by continuously monitoring user movement parameters (joint angles, angular velocities) and real-time calculating required torque values based on rehabilitation stage and movement differences. The motor driver circuit dynamically modifies torque intensity and direction during operation, transforming a static assistance device into an adaptive system that responds to individual user needs without requiring complex manual reconfiguration
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs feedback mechanisms by sensing user movement through sensors, comparing actual movement against target movement patterns, and using the calculated differences to adjust torque output. The processor continuously receives movement information, calculates torque requirements based on rehabilitation protocols, and feeds this back to the motor driver circuit for real-time torque adjustment, enabling personalized adaptation while maintaining manageable system complexity
2Measurement precision
If the device calculates torque based on movement differences, then personalized assistance is achieved, but the computational requirements and control complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical torque adjustment mechanisms with an electronic control system. The processor calculates torque values based on sensor input and rehabilitation parameters, then the motor driver circuit electronically converts these calculations into precise motor torque output. This substitution of mechanical adjustment with electronic computation and control simplifies the physical structure while enabling precise, personalized torque delivery through software-based movement analysis and torque synthesis
3Power
If the motor outputs higher torque for resistance training, then training intensity increases, but energy consumption from the battery increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements periodic action by delivering torque in controlled bursts synchronized with the user's movement cycle. The motor driver circuit activates the motor during specific phases of movement when torque is needed (based on calculated requirements) and allows passive movement during other phases. This periodic engagement provides high torque intensity during training moments while minimizing overall energy consumption, as the motor operates intermittently rather than continuously at maximum power
Solution Approach 2:
The patent dynamically changes torque parameters (intensity, direction, duration) based on real-time movement analysis and rehabilitation stage. The processor adjusts torque magnitude and timing parameters to match the user's instantaneous needs, delivering high torque only when required for resistance or assistance. This parameter optimization ensures maximum training effectiveness while minimizing unnecessary energy consumption from the battery
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
The device provides personalized torque assistance or resistance tailored to user movements, enhancing rehabilitation and training efficacy by improving muscle engagement and movement patterns.
Implementation Method 1
turn on a portion of switches of the motor driver circuit and turn off remaining switches so that the motor rotates in the determined torque direction to output a torque
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 1C
AI summary
A wearable device worn on a trainee so as to output torque is disclosed. One embodiment comprises: a motor; a motor driver circuit; a communication circuit for receiving movement information about a first user from a server or an electronic device; a frame connected to the motor, and worn on the lower body of a second user so as to support the lower body; a sensor; and a processor for controlling the motor driver circuit so that motion information about the second user is obtained using the sensor, the difference between the obtained motion information and the received motion information is calculated, torque strength is determined on the basis of the calculated difference, and a torque of a determined torque strength is output from the motor.