This technology relates to an elastic unit capable of adjusting elastic force and elastic curves, and its operating method. It involves a technology that varies the stiffness characteristics themselves through a plurality of elastic control modules.
Conventional elastic members have fixed stiffness, requiring parts to be replaced whenever the intended use changes. Furthermore, adjusting the elastic curve—the displacement-load curve—in addition to the magnitude of the elastic force, has been even more difficult.
This technology simultaneously adjusts elastic force and elastic curves by combining elastic and inelastic bands and controlling the position of the fixing unit. It can be applied to various products, such as passive wearable robots and training equipment.
This invention was developed with support from the Ministry of Science and ICT for the development of machine learning and extended reality for high-speed mutual adaptation between users and wearable robots; the Korea Forest Service for the development of deep learning-integrated smart wearable suits for forest worker muscle assistance, injury prevention, and work efficiency improvement; and the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy for the development of human-augmentation hybrid robot suits capable of safe 7-second 100m sprints and comfortable 12-hour wear.
US11992068B2
