摘要:
An exoskeleton (100) includes a first link (215, 216) that pivots in a transverse plane about a first vertical axis and a second link (220, 221) that pivots in a transverse plane about a second vertical axis. The second link (220, 221) is coupled to the first link (215, 216). An arm support assembly (230, 231) is coupled to the second link and pivots about a horizontal axis. The arm support assembly (230, 231) includes a spring (410) that generates an assistive torque that counteracts gravity. The arm support assembly (230, 231) provides the assistive torque to an arm of a wearer to support the arm of the wearer. The arm support assembly (230, 231) further includes a cam profile (400) and a cam follower (405). Contact between the spring, cam follower and cam profile determines an amount of the assistive force provided by the arm support assembly (230, 231). A cuff is coupled to the arm support assembly (230, 231) and the arm of the wearer.
摘要:
An ambulatory exoskeleton can be selectively operated in at least two different modes, with one mode constituting an unworn propulsion mode, used when the exoskeleton is not worn by a user, and another mode constituting a default or worn propulsion mode, used when the exoskeleton is worn by a user. With this arrangement, a physical therapist, or other operator, wishing to move an unworn exoskeleton, can balance the unworn exoskeleton, while simultaneously utilizing a control system and actuators of the exoskeleton to propel the unworn exoskeleton. Therefore, the exoskeleton walks by taking steps forward, as commanded by the operator using any of a plurality of input arrangements, while the operator balances and steers the exoskeleton by physically guiding the exoskeleton using a handle or other interaction surface of the exoskeleton.
摘要:
Use of an exoskeleton by a wearer of the exoskeleton is improved through several features. In a first feature, the exoskeleton enters a gait therapy preparation mode to prepare the wearer for subsequent gait therapy. In a second feature, the exoskeleton enters a balance training mode to help the wearer learn to balance while wearing the exoskeleton. In a third feature, the exoskeleton prompts the wearer to shift weight and/or automatically shifts the wearer's weight in a center of pressure control mode. In a fourth feature, an element of variability is introduced into trajectory cycles performed by the exoskeleton in a trajectory cycle mode. Overall, the various disclosed operating modes can be used individually or in various combinations to enhance the rehabilitation or training of the wearer.
摘要:
A mobility system includes an energy module, an exoskeleton and a mobile base. The exoskeleton has an exoskeleton energy module receptacle that can receive the energy module, and the mobile base has a mobile base energy module receptacle that can also receive the energy module. In addition, the mobile base has an exoskeleton support that can support the exoskeleton on the mobile base so that the mobile base can transport the exoskeleton across a support surface.
摘要:
An exoskeleton can be reconfigured, adjusted and/or controlled on the fly utilizing devices which fall into three categories, particularly including a swappable unactuated leg, lockable transverse and coronal hip rotations, and software controlled free joints. More specifically, the first device allows for the creation of a modular joint system in which individual exoskeleton joints or limbs can be changed or swapped to optimize an exoskeleton for a particular user. The second device is concerned with mechanically controlling, such as locking and unlocking, joints thereby allowing, for example, an exoskeleton leg to pivot or not pivot in an axis that is not actuated. The third device allows an actuated exoskeleton joint to be adjusted on the fly using software to simulate a freely rotating joint. The various devices can be used either alone or in combination to enable any given exoskeleton to be appropriately reconfigured, such as when a patient advances during therapy.
摘要:
A gait orthotic system includes a balance aid (120) and a gait orthotic device (100). The gait orthotic device (120) has a rigid attachment mechanism (125, 130) configured to securely and releasably couple the balance aid (120) to the gait orthotic device (100). When the balance aid (120) is coupled to the gait orthotic device (100), the gait orthotic device (100) is supported in a standing position so that a user of the gait orthotic device (100) is able to use his/her hands freely. When the balance aid (120) is not coupled to the gait orthotic device (100), the user is able to use the balance aid (120) for locomotion. In certain embodiments, the balance aid (120) is a forearm crutch, a walker or a cane, while the rigid attachment mechanism (125, 130) is a clamp with an over-center latch (510).
摘要:
The invention is directed to controlling a hydraulic actuation system having at least one degree of freedom, a prime mover, at least one actuation module and a controller, with each actuation module including: an over-center variable displacement pump having a power input connection configured to power the pump from the prime mover and a displacement varying input for varying the displacement of the pump; a displacement varying actuator configured to modulate the displacement varying input of the pump; an output actuator in direct communication with the pump, the output actuator configured to drive a corresponding degree of freedom; and at least one sensor establishing a feedback measurement that represents a force or motion of the output actuator. Based on a value of each feedback measurement, the force or motion of the output actuator is regulated by controlling the prime mover and the displacement actuator for the output actuator.
摘要:
A powered lower extremity orthotic (100; 310), including a shank link (105; 305) coupled to an artificial foot (108; 301), a knee mechanism (107; 306) connected to the shank link (105; 305) and a thigh link (103; 307), is controlled by based on signals from various orthotic mounted sensors (122, 124, 126, 127) such that the artificial foot (108; 301) follows a predetermined trajectory defined by at least one Cartesian coordinate.