The neuromuscular control for lower limb exoskeleton- a 50-year perspective

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Rehabilitation Technology
• Human-Machine Interaction

Background:

• Impaired lower limb function presents a significant societal health and economic burden.
• Existing treatments lack standardization for complete restoration of lost limb function.
• Exoskeletons have emerged as promising assistive and rehabilitative devices.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the development milestones of lower limb exoskeletons over the past 50 years.
• To analyze neuromuscular interactions between exoskeletons and wearers.
• To explore future directions for advanced exoskeleton technology.

Main Methods:

• Historical review of lower limb exoskeleton prototypes, focusing on design, sensors, and control systems.
• Analysis of modern lower limb exoskeleton advancements, including their advantages and disadvantages.
• Summary of current neuromuscular control systems and sensors used in exoskeletons.

Main Results:

• Significant progress in exoskeleton design, sensor technology, and control systems over five decades.
• Exoskeletons demonstrate varying degrees of success in assisting and rehabilitating individuals.
• Evidence suggests exoskeletons influence wearer's neuromuscular control.

Conclusions:

• Lower limb exoskeletons have evolved substantially, offering functional assistance and rehabilitation.
• Understanding neuromuscular interactions is crucial for optimizing exoskeleton performance.
• Future research should focus on integrating multiple technologies for multifunctional exoskeletons.