Patent ID: 8274244
Filing Date: 2012-09-25
Classification: A61F,A61H,H02K,Y10T

Abstract:
1. An actuator system for assisting extension of a biological joint, comprising: a motor assembly that provides a rotational output; a rotary-to-linear mechanism including a screw that accepts the rotational output of the motor assembly, and a nut that cooperates with the screw to convert rotational movement of the screw to linear movement of the nut; and an extension stop which is driven by linear movement of the nut in an extension direction to cause extension of the biological joint, wherein the motor assembly, the rotary-to-linear mechanism and the extension stop cooperate to allow unpowered flexion of the joint, wherein the system is configured without a flexion stop, and wherein the system is configured such that the nut cannot drive the joint in a flexion direction.