Ambulatory exoskeleton and method of relocating exoskeleton
US10213357B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 19, 2015 |
| Grant date | Feb 26, 2019 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 19, 2035 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61H2201/5035
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
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.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.