Exoskeleton load handling system and method of use
US9504623B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 8, 2011 |
| Grant date | Nov 29, 2016 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 2, 2033 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB66D3/18
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An exoskeleton, configurable to be coupled to a person, includes an exoskeleton trunk connected to first and second leg supports at respective hip joints, which allow for flexion and extension about respective hip axes. A counterweight device including an auxiliary mass is connected to the exoskeleton trunk through an actuator such that the auxiliary mass extends in a position behind the exoskeleton trunk. A front load is supported by the exoskeleton through a load bearing device including a load shifting device for selectively operating powered reel mechanisms to raise or lower the front load with respect to the exoskeleton trunk. The auxiliary mass can be selectively shifted with respect to the exoskeleton trunk to balance the moment created about the hip axes by the auxiliary mass and the moment created by a downward force of the load on the load bearing device.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.