Self contained powered exoskeleton walker for a disabled user

Abstract

A walker for use by a mobility impaired disabled user. The walker supports the user while moving them through a set of movements correlating to a walking motion. The walker includes an exoskeleton, a power source in the form of a battery pack or other similar onboard power pack together with its associated power supply cables, and a control systemThe exoskeleton includes a rigid pelvic support member including a pelvic harness and a pair of leg structures. Each of the leg structures comprise an upper leg structural member, a lower leg structural member, a foot member, a main hip actuator, a knee actuator and a main foot actuator.

Description

FIELD OF INVENTION[0001]The present invention relates to a self contained powered exoskeleton walker for a disabled user that at least substitutes fully disabled functions of a user required for walking. In particular but not solely the present invention relates to a robotic exoskeleton that a paraplegic person is fully supportable by, in an upright condition to effect a walking gait.BACKGROUND[0002]During a walking stride by a non disabled person, the centre of mass of their body weight tends to move loosely between being almost directly above one foot, to being above the other foot, in a side to side reciprocating movement of their body weight. This side to side reciprocation of the body weight is minimised by having the feet extend inwardly to almost directly beneath the person's hips, to allow a smoother walking motion. Whatever instability a non disabled person has during walking may be made up for by the speed of reaction and stabilising input of other muscles such as abdomina...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The patent text describes a control system that can move an exoskeleton to help users walk. The system can control the movement of the main hip, knee, and foot actuators to mimic the natural walking motion. This technology has the potential to improve the quality of life for people with mobility issues by enabling them to walk more confidently and comfortably.

Problems solved by technology

Lack of movement of the legs of a paraplegic person is known to cause a number of complications.

Many are spinal injured and hence together with muscle wastage and lack of circulation in the limbs and abdomen due to being seated, complications arise.

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