Finger Rehabilitation Guide Device

1-DOF Finger Rehabilitation Guide Device Combining Revolute and Prismatic Joints

This technology features a 1-DOF linkage mechanism for finger rehabilitation that includes supports coupled to the first and second phalanges of a finger, precisely guiding finger movement through a combination of multiple links, revolute joints, and prismatic joints.

Existing finger rehabilitation devices often require complex control algorithms and multiple actuators, leading to high costs. Furthermore, conventional 1-DOF linkage devices suffer from an increased number of mechanical components and limitations in layout modifications when changing joint positions.

This technology proposes a link structure incorporating multiple prismatic and revolute joints, allowing for flexible layout changes within the plane of motion. By applying a pin-in-slot joint to simplify mechanical elements, it optimizes the number of parts while efficiently utilizing linear or rotary actuators. It can be used for finger rehabilitation in stroke and hand injury patients, and by inducing precise joint movement with a single actuator, it reduces device costs and improves accessibility to rehabilitation.

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Key Features:

• A first support coupled to the first phalanx between the first and second finger joints
• A second support coupled to the second phalanx between the second and third finger joints
• A first link that supports the hand on one side and is supported by the floor on the other to serve as a reference for the link structure, along with a drive unit that generates driving force
• First and second transmission units comprising multiple links, revolute joints, and prismatic joints to transfer driving force to the supports

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This invention was developed with the support of the Ministry of Science, ICT and Future Planning for the development and application of creative synthesis technology for spatial mechanisms.