Multi-Planar Wrist Motion Assist Device with Pivoting Actuators
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional orthopedic devices primarily support joints in a single plane of motion, limiting their effectiveness in improving range of motion for joints that require movement in multiple planes, such as the wrist, which can lead to undesirable motion and hinder recovery.
Innovation Solution
A device with an arm engagement system and a force application system that includes actuators to assist in pronation/supination, flexion/extension, and radial/ulnar deviation of the wrist, allowing for movement in multiple planes of motion through a pivoting connection and power unit assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional orthotic devices are used to support joints, then joint stability is improved, but range of motion in multiple planes is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The device divides the wrist support function into multiple independent segments: a first orthotic component for stabilizing the wrist joint and a second orthotic component for enabling multi-planar motion. This segmentation allows each component to specialize in its function without compromising the other
Solution Approach 2:
The device combines multiple functions into a single integrated system that simultaneously provides joint stability and enables motion in multiple planes (flexion/extension, radial/ulnar deviation, pronation/supination). The coupling mechanism serves as a universal interface that协调s both stabilization and multi-directional movement requirements
2Productivity
If orthotic devices apply force in a single direction of movement, then recovery in that specific plane is improved, but undesirable motion in other planes occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The device applies different quality characteristics to different planes of motion: restrictive qualities (stabilization) to prevent undesirable motion, and permissive qualities (controlled mobility) to allow therapeutic movement. Each orthotic component is optimized for its specific function with appropriate friction and mechanical properties
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling mechanism between orthotic components provides dynamic control that adapts to the user's movement needs. The system transitions from rigid stabilization to controlled mobility based on the direction and magnitude of applied forces, allowing therapeutic motion while preventing harmful movements
3Strength
If a rigid orthotic device is used to enforce proper joint alignment, then joint protection is improved, but user comfort and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The orthotic components incorporate flexible elements and adaptive structures that conform to the user's anatomy and movement patterns. The coupling mechanism allows controlled deformation and adjustment, providing protection without excessive rigidity that would cause discomfort
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates self-adjusting features that automatically adapt to the user's needs during operation. The coupling mechanism self-regulates the balance between protection and comfort based on real-time loading conditions, reducing the need for manual adjustment and improving ease of operation
Data Source
AI summary
A device for manipulating a user's hand a wrist portion and forearm portion, each having proximal and distal ends. A pivoting connection is operatively coupled with the proximal end of the wrist portion and distal end of the forearm portions such that the wrist portion is pivotally coupled to the forearm portion. The device has a first actuator operatively coupled to the wrist portion and a second actuator operatively coupled to the pivoting connection. The first actuator is configured to apply a rotational force to a hand support coupled to the wrist portion, thereby producing either supination or pronation of a user's wrist. The second actuator is configured to apply a rotational force to the pivoting connection, thereby producing either flexion, extension, abduction, or adduction of a user's wrist, depending upon whether the user's hand is palm-side down or in a thumb's up position.