Researchers at the New York University Polytechnic School of Engineering and Florida Institute for Human and Machine Cognition are developing a framework that could speed up the design of powered exoskeletons.
The framework would design customizable exoskeletons that allow individuals with lower-body disabilities to move with natural motion, comfort and safety, according to a university press release. It could also enable military and construction personal to carry heavy loads over long distances.
Researchers at New York University Polytechnic School of Engineering and the Florida Institute for Human and Machine Cognition are developing a design framework that will help speed the design of powered exoskeletons for the lower body. The modeling will allow military personnel and construction workers to carry heavy loads over long distances. The modeling is based on an initial design by NASA and IHMC.
Source:IHMC
Based on initial designs by the Florida Institute for Human and Machine Cognition (IHMC) and NASA, the research will include mathematical models of performance and stability control that could optimize and predict human-exoskeleton physical interactions and dynamics. The research could also lead to reduced costs for exoskeletons, according to the release.
“The end-user’s individual requirements will be considered right from the very beginning and at each stage of the process,” Joo H. Kim, PhD, an assistant professor of mechanical engineering at the New York University Polytechnic School of Engineering, said in the release. “By providing highly customized design, a reduced design cycle, and optimized systems with lightweight and natural motion, we are bringing exoskeleton technologies to the next level.”
Kim has received a 3-year, $539,176 National Robotics Initiative grant from the National Science Foundation to continue his research. The IHMC will collaborate on fabricating and testing the new devices, according to the release.
Reference: www.poly.edu.
