Title :
Development on muscle suit: realization of abduction motion
Author :
Kobayashi, Hiroshi ; Uchimura, Akitaka ; Shiiba, Taichi
Author_Institution :
Dept. of Mech. Eng., Tokyo Sci. Univ., Japan
Abstract :
We have been developing a "muscle suit" providing muscular support to the paralyzed or those otherwise unable to move on their own, as well as for manual workers. Muscle suit is a wear without a metal frame and it uses a McKibben actuator driven by compressed air. Because actuators are sewn into the garment, no metal frame is needed, making the muscle suit very light and cost-efficient. Most medical and welfare apparatuses were developed for caregivers rather than patients in need of nursing, causing patients to lose their own identity and a positive attitude. With muscle suit, patients could control their movement on their own will. Muscle suits are very helpful for both muscular and mental support.
Keywords :
handicapped aids; medical robotics; muscle; orthotics; patient care; pneumatic actuators; McKibben actuator; McKibben artificial muscle; abduction motion realization; human movement support; manual worker; medical apparatus; muscle suit; muscular support apparatus; wearable robot; welfare apparatus; Actuators; Human robot interaction; Humanoid robots; Manuals; Medical robotics; Medical services; Muscles; Personnel; Prototypes; Service robots;
Conference_Titel :
Advanced Intelligent Mechatronics, 2003. AIM 2003. Proceedings. 2003 IEEE/ASME International Conference on
Print_ISBN :
0-7803-7759-1
DOI :
10.1109/AIM.2003.1225134