US 2012/0238914 A1 · ACTIVELY CONTROLLED ORTHOTIC DEVICES

Abstract

An actively controlled orthotic device includes active components that dynamically change the structural characteristics of the orthotic device according to the orientation and locomotion of the corresponding body part, or according to the changing needs of the subject over a period of use. Accordingly, the orthotic device can be effectively employed to provide locomotion assistance, gait rehabilitation, and gait training. Similarly, the orthotic device may be applied to the wrist, elbow, torso, or any other body part. The active components may be actuated to effectively transmit force to a body part, such as a limb, to assist with movement when desired. Additionally or alternatively, the active components may also be actuated to provide support of varying rigidity for the corresponding body part.

Claims52

Dependent claims

An orthotic system, comprising:

a garment formed from a flexible material and shaped to be worn over a body part;
at least one sensor coupled to the garment, the at least one sensor providing information indicating an orientation of the body part;
at least one active component incorporated with the garment, wherein in response to an actuation signal, the at least one active component changes state and causes the garment to be structurally modified;
and
a control system coupled to the sensor and the at least one active component, the control system being configured to receive the orientation information from the at least one sensor and provide the actuation signal to the at least one active component according to the orientation information, whereby the modification of the garment causes a change in the orientation of the body part or provides a change in a level of support to the body part.

2 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Actively controlled orthotic devices

Life of this patent

Actively controlled orthotic devices

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims52