The development of robotic exoskeletons to aid those with lower limb impairments has been a major focus in the last few decades. These devices are able to improve physical ability and allow people with disabilities reach their full potential. They can also help patients with paralysis recover from a stroke, spinal cord injury, or other neurological condition. Exoskeletons are a way to promote more physical activity. There have been many organizations that support the importance and benefits of regular exercise for those with SCIs. Unfortunately, patients with limited funds may find it difficult to access the equipment because of the high price. These devices are being developed at a higher rate and many companies are now entering this market.
Cornell Aeronautical Labs developed the MAN-Amplifier exoskeleton that included force amplification. The MAN–Amplifier was a system which used a servo motor and a pneumatic drive to drive it. It was developed to assist people with disabilities walking more easily. In addition to the motors, the exoskeleton was designed to give wearers a boost in strength. Exoskeletons were also created to assist people on steep slopes.
Exoskeletons have been shown to improve gait function in patients suffering from acute injuries or chronic illnesses. There have been numerous studies. Exoskeleton use has also been studied in relation to cardiovascular health, body composition and gait parameters. These studies have provided preliminary evidence that the use of exoskeletons can improve gait function in patients with SCI. These studies, however, do not provide a comprehensive evaluation of the effectiveness and suitability of exoskeletons to different applications and for different patients.
Robotic exoskeletons may help patients to improve their mobility and ability to perform physical activities, and to improve their social participation. These exoskeletons may allow patients to be more independent in rehabilitation and medical settings. Exoskeleton training requires that exoskeletons be used by a certified trainer. Patients must be provided with hands-on training by a certified trainer to use the exoskeleton.
The Honda Walking Assist, a robotic exoskeleton designed to aid stroke victims, is the Honda Walking Assist. The exoskeleton includes two motors which transmit torque from the user's hip through two strap frames. The exoskeleton also has sensors that measure the direction and speed of the wearer's walking. The sensors allow the exoskeleton to adjust its motors to provide assistance to the wearer. It can also provide power to the hips and knees.
Soft Exosuit is a flexible textile fabric exoskeleton that maximizes metabolic energy usage during walking. Bowden drives the Soft Exosuit. The exoskeleton also has a depth camera, which is used for collecting environmental information. It also uses a machine learning algorithm that recognizes walking patterns. Moreover, the exoskeleton is equipped with a four-point binding system that provides stability while standing.
Soft Exosuit, a lower extremity robotic exoskeleton, was also developed by Connor Walsh and his team at Harvard University. The Soft Exoskeleton comes with auxiliary torques which can be applied to human joint to increase flexibility. Soft Exosuit optimizes walking and uses the auxiliary torques in order to reduce joint stress.