Intelligent active assistive and resistive orthotic device for knee rehabilitation

This paper provides an overview of the state-of-art technology behind existing active assistive / rehabilitative devices, and describes the design and features involved. A novel concept for an active assistive and resistive orthotic device utilizing pneumatic artificial muscles (PAM) is then proposed. The concept design strives to incorporate the advantages inherent in existing devices, enhanced functionalities and features. The key features discussed are portability, compliancy or backdrivability of actuators, compactness, and finally seamless integration with human muscles.