Exoskeletons: A challenge for development

Area of Science:

• Robotics
• Human-Computer Interaction
• Biomechanics

Background:

• Exoskeletons, discussed since the early 2000s, offer support in industrial, medical, and military applications.
• Early exoskeleton adoption was limited, but diverse systems are now emerging.
• Development has been hampered by trial-and-error due to limited experience with body-worn robotics, leading to extended design times.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose a framework for accelerating exoskeleton development.
• To foster user-centered design in exoskeletons.
• To identify scientific accomplishments necessary for future exoskeleton research.

Main Methods:

• Presenting a process to generate a modular framework for exoskeleton design.
• Focusing on user- and use-case-centered solutions.
• Describing required scientific advancements for designers.

Main Results:

• A framework is proposed to streamline the design of complex, body-worn robotic systems.
• The framework emphasizes matching kinematics, actuation, and control to user needs.
• It highlights the necessity of multidisciplinary efforts.

Conclusions:

• The proposed framework aims to reduce development time and enhance user acceptance of exoskeletons.
• Further evaluation of the framework's incorporated solutions is essential.
• This work lays the foundation for future research in exoskeleton design.