A Wearable, Portable Robotic System For Upper Limb Assistance
Opportunity
Strokes and other neurological conditions can result in significant damage to the upper limbs, resulting in one of a person’s arms becoming weak or even paralyzed. In many cases, this can be managed with specialised rehabilitation programs. However, rehabilitation from this type of injury is often laborious and can usually only be performed in a hospital or clinic.
Moreover, during rehabilitation, the patient may experience difficulty performing even basic daily activities without assistance, limiting their freedom and mobility. Luckily, wearable robotics may potentially help patients struggling with limb weakness. By restoring limb function to a certain degree, these robotics make it possible for them to do simple tasks independently.
Currently, there is significant market interest in wearable robotics. In 2019, the market for rehabilitation robotics was valued at an estimated USD 2.3 billion, with a compound annual growth rate of 20.5 percent. This means that by 2027, the market could be worth as much as USD 9.45 billion. This market growth could be further bolstered by creating more sophisticated wearable robotics for use in rehabilitation that are flexible and easy to use in daily life, boosting their uptake.
Technology
This invention relates to a portable, wearable robotic apparatus for assisting with upper limb movement. The apparatus’ is composed of a metal frame with four braces: one connected to the upper arm, and three attached to the forearm. The apparatus also includes two active joints that assist the user in bending and extending their elbow, and pronating and supinating their arm. This frame is also adjustable, allowing it to fit people with different proportions.
The three forearm braces are interchangeable, allowing for a wider range of movements, including one mode supporting the wrist, and another allowing free wrist movement. This motion is driven by a series of cables connected to actuators. While the actuators are not connected to the frame itself, they are contained in a backpack, along with the battery, control unit and other components. This allows the entire apparatus to be more portable and flexible. The use of a cable-driven system instead of directly-connected actuators also means that the apparatus moves more fluidly for better comfort and freedom of movement.
The invention also includes a motion capture sensor that monitors and records movements-enabling adjustments where needed. This ability to tailor the device’s movement to the user’s condition makes it useful for rehabilitation outside the clinic, reducing the need for expert human intervention.
A perspective view of the portable, wearable apparatus meant to assist upper limb movement. The adjustable apparatus includes joints that aid movements like bending and extension, as well as a motion-capture sensor for data collection.
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