Control mechanisms and methods of tool-holding arm for exoskeletons

US11577410B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Ekso Bionics Holdings, Inc. · US

Inventors

• Adam Preuss · Watsonville, US
• Chris Meadows · Richmond, US
• Kurt Amundson · Berkeley, US
• Russ Angold · American Canyon, US
• James Lubin · Oakland, US
• Mario Solano · Richmond, US
• Tom Mastaler · Hercules, US
• Nicholas Fleming · Oakland, US
• Matt Sweeney · Sacramento, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Jan 20, 2017
• Grant date: Feb 14, 2023
• Expiry date: Jun 17, 2040

Classification

• Technology area (CPC F): Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
• CPC primary: F16M2200/044
• WIPO field: Handling
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

A tool-holding arm includes a plurality of links and a tool coupling that removably secures a tool to the tool-holding arm. A first fluid spring provides a gravity-counteracting force to the tool-holding arm. A locking mechanism selectively locks the first fluid spring. An adjustment mechanism selectively adjusts an amount of the gravity-counteracting force provided by the first fluid spring.