Prototype design and size optimization of a hybrid lower extremity exoskeleton with a scissor mechanism for load-carrying augmentation

Abstract

A hybrid lower extremity exoskeleton SJTU-EX which adopts a scissor mechanism as the hip and knee flexion/extension joint is proposed in Shanghai Jiao Tong University to augment load carrying for walking. The load supporting capabilities of a traditional serially connected mechanism and the scissor mechanism are compared in detail. The kinematic influence coefficient method of the kinematic and dynamic analysis is applied in the length optimization of the scissor sides to minimize the transmitting errors between the input and output motions in walking and the load capacities of different scissor mechanisms are illustrated. The optimization results are then verified by the walking simulations. Finally, the prototype of SJTU-EX is implemented with several improvements to enhance the working performances.

Keywords

Exoskeleton hybrid leg scissor mechanism size optimization kinematic influence coefficient

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