Passive and Active Exoskeleton Solutions: Sensors, Actuators, Applications, and Recent Trends

Area of Science:

• Robotics and Mechanical Engineering
• Human-Computer Interaction
• Biomechanics

Background:

• Exoskeleton technology is rapidly advancing, with both passive and active systems being developed.
• These advancements aim to augment human physical capabilities and improve worker safety in various industrial settings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent developments in passive and active exoskeleton technologies.
• To analyze sensors, actuators, mechanisms, design, and applications of exoskeletons.
• To identify research opportunities in the field of exoskeletons.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature review of passive and active exoskeleton technologies.
• Analysis of commonly used sensors and actuators, including their pros and cons.
• Examination of exoskeleton applications in different industries and research prototypes.

Main Results:

• Detailed examination of various exoskeleton technologies, including sensors, actuators, and mechanisms.
• Discussion of advantages and disadvantages of different sensor and actuator types for specific exoskeleton applications.
• Overview of communication protocols and associated challenges in exoskeleton systems.

Conclusions:

• Exoskeleton technology offers significant potential for enhancing human performance and safety.
• Further research is needed to address challenges in sensor integration, actuation, and communication protocols for advanced exoskeleton systems.