In the last few years robotic exoskeletons has been developed to assist people with lower limb impairments. 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. Various organizations have supported the importance of physical activity for people with SCIs, and the use of exoskeletons is seen as a way to encourage more physical activity. Patients with limited financial resources may not be able to afford the equipment at the moment. These devices are being developed at a higher rate and many companies are now entering this market.
Cornell Aeronautical Labs created the MAN–Amplifier, which was the first exoskeleton to use force amplification. The MAN-Amplifier used a servomotor to drive a pneumatic motor. It was created to make people with disabilities move more easily. The exoskeleton, in addition to its motors, was also designed to increase strength. The exoskeleton was also designed to help people climb steep slopes.
Many studies have evaluated the effectiveness of exoskeletons for improving gait function in patients who have suffered from chronic injury or acute injury. Exoskeleton use has also been studied in relation to cardiovascular health, body composition and gait parameters. These studies show that exoskeletons can be used to improve gait function in SCI patients. These studies are not comprehensive and do not assess the effectiveness exoskeletons for different applications or patients.
Robotic exoskeletons are a great way to help patients with mobility issues and improve their participation in social activities. They may also provide patients with greater independence in medical and rehabilitation settings. However, patients must be properly trained in the use of exoskeletons. Patients must be provided with hands-on training by a certified trainer to use the exoskeleton.
The Honda Walking Assist (hip robotic exoskeleton) is designed to assist stroke patients. The exoskeleton has two motors that transmit torque through two strap frames to the user’s thigh. Sensors on the exoskeleton measure the speed and direction of the wearer's walk. The sensors enable the exoskeleton's motors to be adjusted to give the wearer the right assistance. They can also power the wearer’s hips or knees.
Soft Exosuit is an exoskeleton of textile material that optimizes metabolism for walking. Bowden is used to drive the Soft Exosuit. An exoskeleton has a depth camera to collect environmental information. It also has a machine learning algorithm that can recognize walking patterns. A four-point binding system provides stability while standing and is included in the exoskeleton.
Another lower extremity robotic exoskeleton is the Soft Exosuit, developed by Connor Walsh's team at Harvard University. The Soft Exoskeleton comes with auxiliary torques which can be applied to human joint to increase flexibility. Soft Exosuit is designed to optimize walking, and it applies the auxiliary torques that help reduce stress on joints.