High torque active mechanism for orthotic and/or prosthetic devices
US8211042B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 7, 2008 |
| Grant date | Jul 3, 2012 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 14, 2029 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61F2005/0188
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A high torque active mechanism for an orthotic and/or prosthetic joint using a primary brake which can be provide by magnetorheological (MR) rotational damper incorporating and an additional friction brake mechanism driven by the braking force generated by the MR damper. This combination of MR damper and friction brake mechanism allows an increase in torque density while keeping the same level of motion control offered by the MR damper alone. The increased torque density achieved by this high torque active mechanism allows to minimize the size of the actuating system, i.e. its diameter and/or breath, while maximizing its braking torque capability. In this regard, the friction brake mechanism is advantageously positioned around the MR damper, such that the dimension of the package is minimized.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.