Tremor Glove with Shape Memory Alloy Insert(s)

grabcad

Building on the idea of the TremorX Glove (wires) and DIMOV's DD1 (springs), this concept uses a Shape Memory Alloy (SMA) insert to resist hand tremors. The insert shown would be more appropriate for finger tremors, but the basic concept could be extended to the wrist. SMA inserts could potentially be thin enough to be applied to the inside surface of the glove as well without affecting grip significantly. SMAs exhibit several properties that could be used to address tremors: 1) Superelasticity - use the insert as a spring that is less likely to deform when flexed. 2) Shape Memory - allow the insert to bend and conform when the fingers are flexed (like TremorX), but allow the shape to be "reset". This could be done by having the patient wash their hands in warm water. 3) Actuation - Some SMA's bend when electricity is applied and are used as actuators, so a powered version could include software that actively resists tremors by creating a negative force.