Control investigation of a customizable/adjustable exoskeleton upper-limb

Author: Stopforth Riaan  

Publisher: Emerald Group Publishing Ltd

ISSN: 0143-991X

Source: Industrial Robot: An International Journal, Vol.40, Iss.2, 2013-03, pp. : 132-142

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Abstract

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to investigate the mechanical, kinematic and biological aspects that would be required for a customized upper limb exoskeleton prototype operation. Design/methodology/approach - The research contained a literature survey, design, simulation, development and testing of an exoskeleton arm. Findings - An adjustable/customizable exoskeleton arm was developed with a kinematic model to allow the desired motion. Tests were performed to determine the feasibility of the system. Originality/value - The paper shows how the authors researched, designed and developed an exoskeleton arm that had similar mechanical properties to those of a biological arm. The exoskeleton must allow customization and be adaptable to the operator, without the need for major alterations.