Novel swing-assist un-motorized exoskeletons for gait training

Journal of NeuroEngineering and Rehabilitation, 2009 · DOI: 10.1186/1743-0003-6-24 · Published: July 3, 2009

Assistive Technology Rehabilitation Biomedical

Simple Explanation

This paper presents a novel un-motorized bilateral exoskeleton that can be used to assist in treadmill training of motor-impaired patients, such as with motor-incomplete spinal cord injury. The exoskeleton is designed such that the human leg will have a desirable swing motion, once it is strapped to the exoskeleton. Since this exoskeleton is un-motorized, it can potentially be produced cheaply and could reduce the physical demand on therapists during treadmill training.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

One healthy subject

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
At 2.0 mph, the device was effective in reducing the maximum hip torque requirement and the knee joint torque during the beginning of the swing.
2
These behaviors were retained as the treadmill speed was changed between 1–4 mph.
3
These results were remarkable considering the simplicity of the dynamic model, model uncertainty, non-ideal spring behavior, and friction in the joints.

Research Summary

This paper presents a simple un-motorized bilateral exoskeleton for swing assistance and training of motor impaired patients. The device consists of two segments – thigh and shank with torsion springs at hip and knee joints. On analysis, we found that at 2.0 mph, the device was effective in reducing the maximum hip torque requirement and the knee joint during the beginning of the swing.

Practical Implications

Reduced Therapy Costs

The un-motorized exoskeleton aims to reduce physical and financial costs associated with therapist-assisted training.

Improved Gait Training

The device assists the leg during the swing phase, helping it clear the ground and reach a desired final configuration, which can aid in gait rehabilitation.

Design Methodology

The study provides a useful and effective methodology for designing un-motorized exoskeletons to assist and train the swing of motor-impaired patients.

Novel swing-assist un-motorized exoskeletons for gait training

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Reduced Therapy Costs

Improved Gait Training

Design Methodology

Study Limitations

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?

Novel swing-assist un-motorized exoskeletons for gait training

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Reduced Therapy Costs

Improved Gait Training

Design Methodology

Study Limitations

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?