Exoskeleton for Rehabilitation

The project focuses on the development of an exoskeleton for rehabilitation purposes. This exoskeleton is designed to assist individuals with impaired mobility due to injuries or medical conditions in regaining strength and functionality in their limbs. The exoskeleton utilizes advanced robotics and biomechanics principles to provide support and assistance to the user during physical therapy sessions.Key features of the exoskeleton include:

  • Customized Design: The exoskeleton is tailored to fit the user's body comfortably while providing the necessary support and assistance for rehabilitation exercises.
  • Sensors and Feedback Systems: Integrated sensors within the exoskeleton monitor the user's movements and provide real-time feedback to adjust the level of assistance accordingly, ensuring optimal rehabilitation outcomes.
  • Adjustable Assistance Levels: The exoskeleton offers adjustable assistance levels, allowing therapists to customize the intensity of support based on the individual's specific needs and rehabilitation progress.
  • Safety Mechanisms: Safety features such as emergency stop buttons and automatic shutdown systems are incorporated into the exoskeleton to ensure the user's safety during therapy sessions.
  • Data Collection and Analysis: The exoskeleton is equipped with data collection capabilities to track the user's progress over time. This data can be analyzed by healthcare professionals to evaluate the effectiveness of the rehabilitation program and make informed adjustments as needed.

Overall, the exoskeleton for rehabilitation aims to provide an innovative and effective solution for individuals seeking to improve mobility and regain independence following injuries or medical conditions affecting their ability to move. Through the integration of advanced technology and therapeutic principles, the project strives to enhance the quality of life for individuals undergoing rehabilitation therapy.

  1. Exoskeleton Structure:

    • This section represents the physical components of the exoskeleton, including the servo motors and sensors mounted on the structural framework.

  2. Electrical Components:

  3. Power Supply:

    • Battery Pack (5x AA 6V 4000mAh)

  4. Wiring and Interconnections:

    • Male to Male, Male to Female, Female to Female wires for connecting components.

  5. Control and Communication:

    • Arduino IDE (for programming the Seeed Xiao RP2040)
    • Wireless RF Remote Control for user interaction.

  6. Additional Accessories:

    • Medical Velcro (for attaching components to the user)
    • Replacement foam set for cushioning and comfort.

Once we have the sections defined, we'll illustrate the connections between components using lines or arrows. We'll also annotate the diagram with labels and descriptions for clarity.

Based on the requirements of needing motors with excellent torque to lift the weight of a person's leg, I would suggest the following motors:

  1. Low Speed High Torque DC Motor 12V / 14 RPM:

    • This motor offers a rated torque of 300Ncm, which indicates good torque capability.
    • It operates at a low speed of 14 RPM, which can provide the necessary control for lifting a person's leg.
    • The dimensions and weight are suitable for integration into an exoskeleton design.

  2. A flat motor for high torque (e.g., the EC 90 flat motor):

    • This motor, particularly the 260 W version, offers an impressive continuous torque of up to 1 Nm.
    • With its high torque output, it can provide the necessary strength to lift the weight of a person's leg.
    • Its flat design may offer advantages in terms of integration into the exoskeleton structure.

  3. Faradyi Customizable MIT Mini Exoskeleton Motor 13 Rated High Torque 48V Brushless Planetary Reduction Gear Motor:

    • This motor is specifically designed for use in exoskeletons, indicating its suitability for the application.
    • With a focus on high torque and brushless operation, it can provide the necessary power and reliability for lifting tasks.
    • Being customizable, it may offer flexibility in tailoring its specifications to the requirements of the exoskeleton design.

These motors are suggested based on their torque capabilities, speed control, and suitability for integration into an exoskeleton design. Depending on specific design requirements, other factors such as size, weight, and power source compatibility should also be considered when selecting the most appropriate motor for the application.

The mobile application serves to bridge the communication gap between patients and therapists, enhancing the overall rehabilitation process. Here's a rewritten version:

The mobile application aims to improve communication between patients and therapists by connecting with the device:

  1. Therapist Monitoring: The app enables therapists to monitor patients' movements remotely, providing real-time insights into their progress. Therapists can track performance and offer timely feedback and guidance.

  2. Optimized Treatment: By facilitating constant monitoring, the application ensures that patients receive the maximum benefit from their treatment regimen. Therapists can tailor interventions based on real-time data, optimizing the rehabilitation process for each individual.

  3. Time and Effort Saving: Patients benefit from the convenience of remote monitoring, eliminating the need for frequent in-person appointments. This saves time and effort for both patients and therapists, particularly addressing challenges related to long-distance access to care.

  4. Home Program Support: The app includes a comprehensive home program tailored to each patient's needs. It outlines prescribed exercises and activities, guiding patients through their rehabilitation journey even outside clinical settings.

Overall, the mobile application acts as a vital tool in enhancing patient-therapist interaction, optimizing treatment outcomes, and empowering patients to actively participate in their rehabilitation from the comfort of their homes.