Intuitive Leg Assist Device 2

Current technologies for overcoming lower extremity weakness are expensive and restricting. The Intuitive Leg Assist Device 2 (ILAD-2), a second-generation device, will feature a lightweight, comfortable, and affordable alternative. The ILAD-2 will incorporate two degrees of freedom at the hip joint, adjustable components for a variety of user heights, and a more efficient motor and gear design. The motor (Industrial Torxis Servo i01855) will have a torque of 22.6 N*m, connected to a gear reduction system that will achieve a desired 30 N*m output torque. The ILAD-2 will mimic the natural gait cycle using both force sensors and accelerometers as a feedback system. In addition, a dorsiflexion assist device incorporating a spring will be used at the ankle to ease the effort input by the user throughout the gait cycle. Using aluminum alloy components, along with a new motor and gear system, the overall weight of the device will be decreased as well. The user effort will be evaluated with and without the device using electromyography (EMG), in addition to video analysis of the gait cycle.