System, methods, and other embodiments described herein relate to a device for providing mobility assistance to a user. In one embodiment, a mobility system includes a support component including at least a waist device that is configured to secure the mobility system to the user at a waist area of the user. The mobility system includes a limb attached to the support component and extendable from the support component to a floor when the user is in a standing position. The limb is configured to support the user by providing a rigid structure between the floor and the user. The limb is configured to assist the user in transitioning from a seated position to the standing position by applying a substantially upward force to the user through the support component when transitioning to the standing position.

It is to be understood that the methods and apparatus which have been described above are merely illustrative applications of the principles of the invention. Numerous modifications may be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the true spirit and scope of the invention.

A prosthetic joint can include a first attachment member and a second attachment member coupled to the first attachment member. The second attachment member can include a cylindrical chamber. The prosthetic joint can include a fixation system disposed within the cylindrical chamber comprising at least one cam. The prosthetic joint can have an unlocked configuration, wherein in the unlocked configuration the first attachment member and the second attachment member can rotate relative to each other. The prosthetic joint can have a locked configuration, wherein in the locked configuration the first attachment member is substantially prevented from rotating relative to the second attachment member.

An orthopedic device with a hydraulic damping device, a valve with a valve seat and a valve body that is subjected to a closing force. The closing force is applied via a valve spring that is pre-loaded towards the valve seat. A fluid connection between the hydraulic damping device and the valve seat is provided. The valve features an adjustment device for adjusting the preload of the valve spring.

A prosthetic joint can include a first attachment member and a second attachment member coupled to the first attachment member. The second attachment member can include a cylindrical chamber. The prosthetic joint can include a fixation system disposed within the cylindrical chamber comprising at least one cam. The prosthetic joint can have an unlocked configuration, wherein in the unlocked configuration the first attachment member and the second attachment member can rotate relative to each other. The prosthetic joint can have a locked configuration, wherein in the locked configuration the first attachment member is substantially prevented from rotating relative to the second attachment member.

A frame module includes a frame configured to enclose a portion of a user, and at least one reinforcement belt of which both end portions are connected to both sides of the frame, thereby restricting a splaying level of the frame in a predetermined direction.

An exoskeleton includes first and second compression members configured to be coupled to a wearer of the exoskeleton. A tensegrity joint connects the first compression member to the second compression member, the joint including a tensile member having a first end and a second end. The first end is coupled to the first compression member on a first side of the joint, and the second end is coupled to the first compression member on a second side of the joint opposite the first side.

The present disclosure includes prosthetic devices, including implants for joints and external prosthetics. The prosthetic devices allow for full articulation of the joint, while absorbing impact of the components during normal use that will reduce wear on the device components and prolong life. The device may include a bone implantable component and a bearing component having an articulation surface that is sized and shaped to substantially mate with at least a portion of the bone implantable component and a damping mechanism that includes a contact member disposed at least primarily inside a cavity; a biasing member biasing the contact member toward an upper aperture of the cavity and means for capturing the contact member within the cavity.

A thermally responsive shape memory polymer (SMP) actuator includes a body having at least one non-linear segment arranged between first and second ends, with the body comprising a plurality of dots, rods, or layers of SMP material. The SMP material my include a linear aliphatic thermoplastic polyester and at least one other polymer. The non-linear segment may have a substantially flat zig-zag shape arranged between first and second substantially straight segments. A prosthetic device may include multiple thermally responsive shape memory actuators and a movable joint arranged between structural members having anchors associated therewith. A first group of SMP actuators provides pivotal movement in a first direction, and a second group of SMP actuators provides pivotal movement in a second direction. Methods for forming SMP actuators include body formation by additive manufacturing, heating the body to a glass transition temperature range while applying tension, and cooling the body.

System, methods, and other embodiments described herein relate to a device for providing mobility assistance to a user. In one embodiment, a mobility system includes a support component including at least a waist device that is configured to secure the mobility system to the user at a waist area of the user. The mobility system includes a limb attached to the support component and extendable from the support component to a floor when the user is in a standing position. The limb is configured to support the user by providing a rigid structure between the floor and the user. The limb is configured to assist the user in transitioning from a seated position to the standing position by applying a substantially upward force to the user through the support component when transitioning to the standing position.