Date of Last Revision
2023-05-03 12:52:35
Major
Mechanical Engineering - Cooperative Education
Degree Name
Bachelor of Science
Date of Expected Graduation
Spring 2019
Abstract
This report details the design process of a lower limb exoskeleton leg brace for elderly people with walking disabilities or others with disabilities that limit mobility. While there are other similar products on the market, the general design can be improved and these improvements have been implemented into the design presented within. Among these improvements are progress in efficiency, weight, user comfort, and cost. The results of the study are the design of a novel leg brace that improves on existing designs in each of these areas.
Our design solution incorporates the use of a single leg brace with no additional hip supports that utilizes an electric motor mounted to the side of the brace on the upper leg. The power is transmitted to the joint with a worm gear which will exert force when the user climbs stairs. The frame of the leg skeleton will be made of aluminum and the components which rest against the body will be 3D printed with ABS plastic. This choice of materials will allow our brace to have enough strength to support an adult male climbing stairs while still being comfortable to wear.
The design of the brace presents significant advantages over other similar products as it will be worn only on one leg and will be easier to take on and off when desired. This means easier mobility and greater quality of life for the users of such products.
Research Sponsor
Dr. Shao Wang
First Reader
Dr. James Keszenheimer
Second Reader
Dr. Gopal Nadkarni
Recommended Citation
Indermuhle, Aaron; Kasumov, Magomed; Bagcioglu, Cevat; and Battaglia, Lucas, "Exoskeleton Leg Brace" (2019). Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects. 841.
https://ideaexchange.uakron.edu/honors_research_projects/841