Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a prosthetic walking device that is developed to be worn by a user around stub portion of the user’s leg and further adjusts the length and movement of the device to comfortably and simulate natural walking motion of the user, thus enhancing mobility of the user.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Mobility devices have been developed to assist individuals with leg amputations or impairments, providing them with solutions that simulate natural walking motion. Traditionally, these devices offer basic support for movement, relying on rigid structures and limited adaptability to the user’s specific gait or environment. Although these solutions have significantly improved over time, many still lack the ability to dynamically adjust to the user's movement or offer fine control needed to replicate the natural biomechanics of walking, leading to discomfort or difficulty during prolonged use.

[0003] Conventional mobility devices often fail to provide necessary adjustments in length and flexibility, limiting the range of motion and comfort for the user. Many devices also lack adaptive technologies for real-time adjustments, resulting in an unnatural walking experience that may cause additional strain on the residual limb or other parts of the body. This lead to issues such as joint stress, fatigue, and reduced user confidence. Therefore, there is a need to develop a device that offers enhanced flexibility, improved comfort, and natural movement, addressing the limitations found in existing solutions.

[0004] US20020087216A1 discloses about a prosthetic walking system including a pylon, a prosthetic ankle, and a prosthetic foot, any two or more of which can be integrally connected into a single, continuous unit. The prosthetic ankle can be a rearwardly-facing, generally C-shaped member, and may include an upper leg, an interconnecting portion, and a lower leg. The prosthetic ankle may include a weakened portion so that the prosthetic walking system is better adapted to flex at the prosthetic ankle rather than at the pylon. A link or link assembly can be coupled to at least one of the pylon and the upper leg of the prosthetic ankle and to at least one of the lower leg of the prosthetic ankle and the prosthetic foot in order to limit the displacement between the upper leg and the lower leg of the prosthetic ankle. Although, US’216 provides a mobility device for an impaired person, however the device fails to provide a means for absorbing shocks and reducing impact. This means the device does not have a way to cushion the user from the forces experienced while walking, which would improve comfort and make the device easier to wear for longer periods.

[0005] US5425780A discloses about a prosthetic device for simulating the movements of a natural human ankle and foot throughout all the phases of the gait cycle and which is adapted for the removable attachment to the stump of a lower extremity amputee includes an ankle block member having an aperture in which a universal joint is disposed for allowing the ankle block member to simulate the movements to the anatomical limits of the natural human ankle. Attached to the universal joint and extending upwardly therefrom is an elongated tibial component having an upper tibial end to which is attached a tibial shock member for shock absorption of the prosthetic device during phases of the gait cycle when the prosthetic device strikes any walking surface. The prosthetic device further includes a lower and an upper mounting block which are both attached to a receiver mounted to the flat undersurface of the stump, adjustment of the lower mounting block permitting the pitch of the prosthetic device to match the pitch of the amputee's natural leg so that the prosthetic device can be aligned in gait with the amputee's natural leg for normal walking upon any terrain or surface. Although, US’780 provides a mobility assistive device for the user, however the device fails to provide a means for absorbing shocks and reducing impact. This means the device does not have a way to cushion the user from the forces experienced while walking, which would improve comfort and make the device easier to wear for longer periods.

[0006] Conventionally, many devices have been developed on providing mobility to individuals with leg impairments, however, these devices lack advanced features that enhance comfort, shock absorption, and natural movement and as a result, these devices cause discomfort over extended use and fail to simulate a smooth walking experience.

[0007] In order to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks, there exists a need in the art to develop a device that provides improved comfort, better shock absorption, and smoother, more natural walking motion for users, enhance both the usability and overall experience for individuals relying on prosthetic walking aids.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

[0008] The principal object of the present invention is to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art.

[0009] An object of the present invention is to develop a device that is developed to be worn by a user around stub portion of the user’s leg and further adjusts the length and movement of the device to comfortably and simulate natural walking motion of the user, thus enhancing mobility of the user.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that provide a means for shock absorption and impact reduction, ensuring that a user wears the device comfortably.

[0011] Yet another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is reliable, user-friendly and easy-to-operate.

[0012] The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent upon further review of the following detailed description of the preferred embodiment as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0013] The present invention relates to a prosthetic walking device that is designed to enhance mobility for a user with limb loss or impairment and is worn on the stub portion of the user's leg along with adjusting both the length and movement of the device, to ensure that the device provides a more realistic and comfortable walking experience for the user.

[0014] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a prosthetic walking device comprises of a substantially cylindrical member having a concave upper surface for positioning of a stub of a user in the upper surface, an inflatable cushion lined along the upper surface connected with an inflation unit for a comfortable gripping onto stub of the user, a pressure sensor installed in the upper surface to measure the pressure of cushion on the upper surface, a telescopic rod, having dampers at upper and lower ends of the rod, attached at a bottom end of the member by means of a ball and socket joint as a knee joint and a cushioned flap attached with the bottom damper by means of a hinge, as the lower portion of leg and foot, respectively, a tank provided within the member or containing a lubrication oil, plurality of conduits having ends located at the ball and socket joint and the hinge for dispense the oil for lubrication of the joints, a temperature sensor embedded on in the upper surface detects a temperature of the user’s stub, a Peltier unit provided in the member to alter a temperature of the upper surface if the detected temperature is outside a predetermined temperature range for comfort of the user, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit in synchronization with a gyroscopic sensor installed on the member to determine a terrain on which the user is walking and an orientation of the member, a microphone provided on the member for receiving an audio command from the user regarding initiating walking, a battery associated with the device for powering up electrical and electronically operated components associated with the device and a piezoelectric generator is incorporated in the flap for generating electrical power during walking to store the electrical energy in the battery.

[0015] While the invention has been described and shown with particular reference to the preferred embodiment, it will be apparent that variations might be possible that would fall within the scope of the present invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with regard to the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings where:
Figure 1 illustrates an isometric view of a prosthetic walking device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0017] The following description includes the preferred best mode of one embodiment of the present invention. It will be clear from this description of the invention that the invention is not limited to these illustrated embodiments but that the invention also includes a variety of modifications and embodiments thereto. Therefore, the present description should be seen as illustrative and not limiting. While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, it should be understood, that there is no intention to limit the invention to the specific form disclosed, but, on the contrary, the invention is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the claims.

[0018] In any embodiment described herein, the open-ended terms "comprising," "comprises,” and the like (which are synonymous with "including," "having” and "characterized by") may be replaced by the respective partially closed phrases "consisting essentially of," consists essentially of," and the like or the respective closed phrases "consisting of," "consists of, the like.

[0019] As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” designate both the singular and the plural, unless expressly stated to designate the singular only.

[0020] The present invention relates to a prosthetic walking device that is developed to be worn by a user around stub portion of the user’s leg and further adjusts the length and movement of the device to comfortably and simulate natural walking motion of the user, thus enhancing mobility of the user.

[0021] Referring to Figure 1, an isometric view of a prosthetic walking device is illustrated, comprising a substantially cylindrical member 101 having a concave upper surface for positioning of a stub of a user in the upper surface, an inflatable cushion 102 lined along the upper surface connected with an inflation unit, a telescopic rod 103, having dampers 104 at upper and lower ends of the rod 103, attached at a bottom end of the member 101, a cushioned flap 105 attached with the bottom damper 104, a tank 106 provided within the member 101, plurality of conduits 107 having ends located at the ball and socket joint and the hinge, a Peltier unit 108 provided in the member 101, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 109 installed on the member 101, a microphone 110 provided on the member 101 and a piezoelectric generator incorporated in the flap 105.

[0022] The proposed device herein comprises of a substantially cylindrical member 101 with a concave-shaped upper surface, designed to accommodate and securely position a user's stub. This concave surface fits the natural shape of the user’s stub, providing both support and comfort during use.

[0023] A user is initially required to press a push button integrated with the device, such that when the user presses the push button, it initiates an electrical circuit mechanism. Inside the push button, there is a spring-loaded contact mechanism that, under normal circumstances, maintains an open circuit. When the button is pressed, it compresses the spring, causing the contacts to meet and complete the circuit. This closure then sends an electrical signal to an inbuilt microcontroller associated with the device to either power up or shut down. Conversely, releasing the button allows the spring to return to its original position, breaking the circuit and sending the signal to deactivate the device.

[0024] On activation of the device, the microcontroller activates an inflatable cushion 102 lined along the upper surface and connected with an inflation unit in the member 101 for allowing the cushion 102 to inflate or deflate based on the user’s needs. The inflation unit is equipped with a compressor, wherein the air compressor works by compressing atmospheric air and storing air in the inflatable cushion 102, which is then inflated. The compressor works by converting the potential energy of the air into kinetic energy. This is done by compressing the air, which increases the air pressure and temperature. The air is then released through a nozzle and directed into the inflatable member 101 thus aiding in inflating of the inflatable cushion 102 for inflating to provide comfort to the user.

[0025] A pressure sensor is activated by the microcontroller to detect a pressure exerted on the upper surface by the inflatable cushion 102. The pressure sensor includes a transducer, such that when the inflatable cushion 102 gets inflated, then force is exerted by the inflatable cushion 102 on the user’s stub. The exerted force causes deflection within a diaphragm inside the transducer. The deflection is monitored by the transducer and is further converted into an electric signal that is received by the microcontroller. The microcontroller processes the received pressure and detects the pressure applied by the inflatable cushion 102 on the user’s stub and accordingly the microcontroller regulates the pressure of the inflatable cushion 102 to adjust the cushion’s 102 firmness, ensuring a comfortable yet secure grip on the user’s stub.

[0026] The microcontroller activates an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 109, in synchronization with a gyroscopic sensor installed on the member 101 to determine a terrain on which the user is walking and an orientation of the member 101. The imaging unit 109 comprises of an image capturing arrangement including a set of lenses that captures multiple images of the surroundings, and the captured images are stored within a memory of the imaging unit 109 in form of an optical data. The imaging unit 109 also comprises of a processor that is integrated with artificial intelligence protocols, such that the processor processes the optical data and extracts the required data from the captured images. The extracted data is further converted into digital pulses and bits and are further transmitted to the microcontroller. The microcontroller processes the received data and determines the terrain over which the user is walking.

[0027] The user also access a microphone 110 linked with the microcontroller, provided on the member 101 for receiving an audio command from the user regarding initiating walking. The microphone 110 consists of a diaphragm, typically made of a thin, flexible material such as metal or plastic. When sound waves reach the microphone 110, they cause the diaphragm to vibrate. These vibrations are directly proportional to the variations in air pressure caused by the sound waves. The diaphragm is coupled to a coil of wire, as the diaphragm vibrates, the coil moves within a magnetic field, inducing an electric current in the wire.

[0028] This current is proportional to the amplitude and frequency of the sound waves. The electrical signal generated by the diaphragm-coil is transmitted to the microcontroller. The microcontroller on receiving the signals actuate the imaging unit 109 to determine in synchronization with the gyroscopic sensor to determine a terrain on which the user is walking and an orientation of the member 101 to actuate the ball and socket joint, the hinge and the rod 103 to articulate the rod 103 for enabling a walking movement.

[0029] The microcontroller simultaneously actuates a gyroscopic sensor for determining the orientation of the member 101. The gyroscopic sensor consists of a MEMS (Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems) structure that contains a vibrating element, such as a tuning fork or a vibrating ring. When the sensor experiences angular rotation, the Coriolis force generated by this rotation causes a shift in the vibration pattern of the MEMS element. This shift is detected by capacitive or piezoelectric sensors integrated within the gyroscope. The detected changes are then converted into electrical signals and processed by the sensor's electronics to calculate the angular velocity. By integrating these measurements over time, the sensor determines the orientation of the member 101.

[0030] A telescopic rod 103, equipped with dampers 104 at both its upper and lower ends, is attached to the bottom end of the member 101 via a ball and socket joint functioning as a knee joint. The lower end of the telescopic rod 103 features a cushioned flap 105, which is connected to the bottom damper 104 through a hinge, simulating the lower portion of a leg and foot, respectively. The dampers 104 at both ends of the rod 103 provide cushioning and shock absorption, while the ball and socket joint enables flexible knee-like movement.

[0031] Based on orientation of the member 101 the microcontroller actuates the ball and socket joint, the hinge, and the rod 103 in a coordinated manner to enable a walking movement. The microcontroller first controls the ball and socket joint, which functions like a knee. The ball and socket joint consists of a spherical ball and a concave socket. The ball, attached to one part of the structure, fits into the socket, which is connected to another part. The spherical shape of the ball allows it to rotate within the socket, enabling movement in multiple planes. The joint is supported by ligaments to maintain stability while allowing smooth articulation, simulating the natural knee’s movement during walking.

[0032] The hinge, located at the bottom of the telescopic rod 103 and connected to the cushioned flap 105 is responsible for controlling the movement of the lower leg and foot. The hinge comprises of a pair of leaf that is screwed with the surfaces of the flap 105. The leaf are connected with each other by means of a cylindrical member 101 integrated with a shaft coupled with a DC (Direct Current) motor to provide required movement to the hinge. The rotation of the shaft in clockwise and anti-clockwise aids in opening and closing of the hinge respectively. Hence the microcontroller actuates the hinge that in turn provides movement to the cushioned flap 105 for controlling the movement of the lower leg and foot.

[0033] The microcontroller synchronously actuates telescopic rod 103 to provide adjustable length and controlled movement, allowing rod 103 to extend or retract as needed. The telescopic rod 103 is linked to a pneumatic unit, including an air compressor, air cylinders, air valves and piston which works in collaboration to aid in extension and retraction of the rod 103. The pneumatic unit is operated by the microcontroller. Such that the microcontroller actuates valve to allow passage of compressed air from the compressor within the cylinder, the compressed air further develops pressure against the piston and results in pushing and extending the piston. The piston is connected with the rod 103 and due to applied pressure the rod 103 extends and similarly, the microcontroller retracts the rod 103 by closing the valve resulting in retraction of the piston. Thus, the microcontroller regulates the extension/retraction of the rod 103 for aiding the user in walking comfortably.

[0034] A tank 106 is provided within the member 101 or containing a lubrication oil, wherein a plurality of conduits 107 having ends located at the ball and socket joint and the hinge for dispensing the oil for lubrication of the joints. Further, a temperature sensor is embedded on in the upper surface detects a temperature of the user’s stub. The temperature sensor works based on the voltage in its diode. The resistance of the diode is detected and is transformed into readable values in Celsius or kelvin to measure the temperature of the water and converts the measured temperature into electrical signal which is send to the microcontroller. The microcontroller processes the measured temperature of the user’s stub.

[0035] Based on the temperature of the user’s stub, if the detected temperature is outside a predetermined temperature range, then the microcontroller actuate a Peltier unit 108 provided in the member 101 to alter a temperature of the upper surface for providing comfort to the user. The Peltier unit 108 operates based on the Peltier effect, a thermoelectric phenomenon. The Peltier unit 108 consists of semiconductor materials arranged in a series of alternating n-type and p-type elements. When an electric current is applied to the elements, it results in the transfer of heat from one side of the unit to the other, creating a cooling effect on one side and a heating effect on the opposite side, thus the Peltier unit 108 alter a temperature of the upper surface for providing comfort to the user.

[0036] A piezoelectric generator is incorporated in the flap 105 that is activated by the microcontroller for generating electrical power during walking. The piezoelectric generator operates based on the piezoelectric effect, where certain materials generate electrical energy when subjected to mechanical stress or pressure. A piezoelectric material is embedded within it. During walking, as pressure or force is applied to the flap 105 with each step, the piezoelectric material deforms, creating an electric charge. Electrodes attached to the piezoelectric material collect this charge, converting the mechanical energy from walking into electrical energy. This generated electrical energy is then transferred to a battery associated with the device for powering up electrical and electronically operated components associated with the device.

[0037] The present invention works best in the following manner, where the cylindrical member 101 with the concave-shaped upper surface designed to accommodate and securely position the user's stub, wherein the microcontroller activates the inflatable cushion 102 lined along the upper surface for allowing the cushion 102 to inflate or deflate based on the user’s needs. The pressure sensor detect a pressure exerted on the upper surface by the inflatable cushion 102 and accordingly the microcontroller regulates the pressure of the inflatable cushion 102 to adjust the cushion’s 102 firmness, ensuring a comfortable yet secure grip on the user’s stub. The microcontroller activates the imaging unit 109 in synchronization with the gyroscopic sensor to determine terrain on which the user is walking and the orientation of the member 101 to actuate the ball and socket joint, the hinge and the rod 103 to articulate the rod 103 for enabling a walking movement. The tank 106 is provided within the member 101 or containing a lubrication oil, wherein plurality of conduits 107 having ends located at the ball and socket joint and the hinge for dispensing the oil for lubrication of the joints. Further, the temperature sensor embedded on in the upper surface detects temperature of the user’s stub and actuate the Peltier unit 108 provided in the member 101 to alter a temperature of the upper surface for providing comfort to the user. The piezoelectric generator is incorporated in the flap 105 that is activated by the microcontroller for generating electrical power during walking which is transferred to the battery for powering up electrical and electronically operated components associated with the device.

[0038] Although the field of the invention has been described herein with limited reference to specific embodiments, this description is not meant to be construed in a limiting sense. Various modifications of the disclosed embodiments, as well as alternate embodiments of the invention, will become apparent to persons skilled in the art upon reference to the description of the invention. , Claims:1) A prosthetic walking device, comprising:

i) a substantially cylindrical member 101 having a concave upper surface for positioning of a stub of a user in said upper surface, wherein an inflatable cushion 102 is lined along said upper surface, connected with an inflation unit in said member 101 for a comfortable gripping onto stub of said user, as per a pressure detected by a pressure sensor installed in said upper surface;
ii) a telescopic rod 103, having dampers 104 at upper and lower ends of said rod 103, attached at a bottom end of said member 101 by means of a ball and socket joint as a knee joint, wherein a cushioned flap 105 is attached with said bottom damper 104 by means of a hinge, as the lower portion of leg and foot, respectively;
iii) a tank 106 provided within said member 101 or containing a lubrication oil, wherein a plurality of conduits 107 having ends located at said ball and socket joint and said hinge for dispense said oil for lubrication of said joints;
iv) a temperature sensor embedded on in said upper surface detects a temperature of said user’s stub to trigger a microcontroller to actuate a Peltier unit 108 provided in said member 101 to alter a temperature of said upper surface if said detected temperature is outside a predetermined temperature range, for a comfort of said user; and
v) an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 109, in synchronization with a gyroscopic sensor embedded in said member 101, installed on said member 101 and integrated with a processor for recording and processing images in a vicinity of said member 101, to determine a terrain on which said user is walking and an orientation of said member 101 to trigger said microcontroller to actuate said ball and socket joint, said hinge and said rod 103 to articulate said rod 103 for enabling a walking movement.

2) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a microphone 110, linked with said microcontroller, provided on said member 101 for receiving an audio command from said user regarding initiating walking to trigger said microcontroller to actuate said imaging unit 109 to determine in synchronization with said gyroscopic sensor to determine a terrain on which said user is walking and an orientation of said member 101 to actuate said ball and socket joint, said hinge and said rod 103 to articulate said rod 103 for enabling a walking movement.

3) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a battery is associated with said device for powering up electrical and electronically operated components associated with said device.

4) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a piezoelectric generator is incorporated in said flap 105 for generating electrical power during walking to store said electrical energy in said battery.