Autonomous Knee Walker with Adaptive Steering and Biomechanical Feedback
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
A next-generation knee walker system incorporating advanced technologies such as neural networks, machine learning, and biomechanical sensors to enhance user experience, stability, and rehabilitation outcomes.
Background and Problem Solved
The original knee walker with four-wheel steering, while improving maneuverability and stability, still relies on user input and lacks real-time adaptability to changing environmental and user conditions. This new inventive concept addresses these limitations by integrating predictive steering, dynamic steering ratio adjustment, and advanced biomechanical feedback to create a more autonomous and supportive ambulatory device.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The autonomous knee walker system comprises a neural network-based predictive steering module that utilizes machine learning algorithms to anticipate and adjust steering inputs based on user behavior and environmental factors. The system also features dynamic steering ratio adjustment, which is based on real-time feedback from sensors monitoring the user's gait and balance. Additionally, the knee walker incorporates an integrated exoskeleton system, providing additional support and stability to the user's legs and knees during ambulation. The modular design enables users to customize their device for various terrain and mobility requirements. Advanced biomechanical sensors and analytics track and provide real-time feedback on the user's rehabilitation progress and mobility metrics.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce a paradigm shift in knee walker technology by integrating autonomous and adaptive features, which are not present in the original patent. The use of neural networks, machine learning, and biomechanical sensors to enhance user experience and rehabilitation outcomes is novel and non-obvious compared to the original patent.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments may include variations in the neural network architecture, sensor types, and exoskeleton design. Additionally, the system could be integrated with virtual or augmented reality platforms to provide immersive rehabilitation experiences or with wearable devices to track user health metrics.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The autonomous knee walker system has significant commercial potential in the healthcare and rehabilitation industries, particularly in the areas of post-operative care, injury rehabilitation, and mobility assistance for the elderly and disabled. The system's advanced features and adaptive capabilities make it an attractive solution for healthcare providers, insurers, and individuals seeking to improve rehabilitation outcomes and reduce healthcare costs.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61H3/04 |
| B | B62 | B62K5/003 |
| B | B62 | B62K25/02 |
| A | A61 | A61H2003/005 |
| A | A61 | A61H2003/046 |
| B | B62 | B62K2025/025 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Mobility assistive devices, specifically knee walkers and ambulatory support systems, encompassing mechanical design, biomechanical engineering, and assistive technology with expertise in mechanical linkages, steering mechanisms, and rehabilitation engineering
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A biomedical engineer or mechanical engineer with 3-5 years experience in assistive mobility device design, familiar with rehabilitation technologies, mechanical steering systems, and sensor integration techniques
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that integrating neural network-based adaptive steering and biomechanical feedback into a knee walker represents a predictable technological evolution of existing mobility assistance systems. The fundamental mechanical structure of the knee walker remains consistent with the source patent, while the proposed enhancements represent incremental improvements using known machine learning and sensor technologies. The modular design and adaptive steering concepts are logical extensions of existing mobility device engineering principles.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,485 |
|---|---|
| Title | Knee walker with four-wheel steering |
| Assignee(s) | ROVER MOBILITY, LLC |