Rotational-direction-dependent Locking Mechanism for an Orthosis and Orthosis Having a Locking Mechanism of This Type

Simple SummaryContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

This patent describes a rotational-direction-dependent locking mechanism for orthopedic devices (orthoses). The mechanism uses a specially designed coupling and blocking system that can lock or allow joint movement depending on the rotation direction. It includes an energy storage component (usually a spring) to store and release energy during specific joint movements, supporting and assisting the user’s motion without the need for heavy motors. The mechanism can be automatically controlled, for example by fluidic (hydraulic) switches placed under a user’s foot to synchronize the orthosis' action with natural gait phases.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Foot or ankle orthoses to support patients recovering from nerve injuries or stroke
• Lower-limb orthoses to prevent unwanted joint motion and assist normal gait cycles
• Devices for rehabilitation to aid in regaining movement after orthopedic surgery
• Orthoses for people with weakened muscles to prevent falls and support safe walking
• Customizable orthoses for various joints (e.g., knee, elbow) to guide and limit movement as needed

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Provides direction-specific support, locking movement in one direction while allowing or assisting movement in the other
• Reduces the need for heavy and complex electric motors, resulting in lighter and more compact orthoses
• Stores and releases kinetic energy to assist with walking and movement, improving user mobility and comfort
• Offers automatic, phase-dependent operation through pressure-sensitive activation, ensuring natural gait and energy-efficient support
• Enhances patient safety by preventing undesired or dangerous joint movement while allowing necessary movement and rehabilitation
• Adaptable to various types of orthoses and joint requirements, increasing its versatility in medical applications

Technical Classifications (CPCs)

Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

The invention relates to a rotational-direction-dependent locking mechanism (1) for an orthosis (2), comprising - a first locking mechanism part (3) for connecting to a first orthosis shell (6), - a second locking mechanism part (4) for connecting to a second orthosis shell (8), - a coupling body (10), which is disposed between the first and second locking mechanism parts (3, 4), and - a blocking body (12), wherein the coupling body (10) between the first and second locking mechanism parts (3, 4) can be moved between a free-running position (14), in which the first and second locking mechanism parts (3, 4) can be moved, in particular rotated, freely relative to one another, and a coupling position (18), in which the first and second locking mechanism parts (3, 4) are force-transmittingly coupled to one another indirectly by means of the coupling body (10), in particular with the interposition of a kinetic-energy store (32), and wherein the blocking body (12) can be moved between a blocking position (26), in which the blocking body (12) prevents rotation of the coupling body (10) in a first rotational direction, and a release position (42), in which the blocking body (12) allows rotation of the coupling body (10) in the first rotational direction.