Key Takeaways
- The soft exosuit uses artificial muscles made from dielectric elastomers to assist the hips during walking.
- The 4.2-pound prototype reduces energy expenditure by 13.9% in a small treadmill test with six healthy adults.
- The design has the potential to provide mobility support for older adults and individuals with mobility challenges.
Walking through an airport or around a large store can become increasingly challenging as we age. However, researchers in China are now testing a revolutionary soft exosuit that could help reduce this burden. The experimental suit assists the hips using artificial muscles, rather than conventional motors and gearboxes, and has shown promising results in a small treadmill test.
The soft exosuit is a lightweight, motor-free design that fits around the waist and thighs like a harness. It uses flexible muscle-like fibers positioned near each hip to help move the leg forward during walking. The artificial muscles are made from a rubber-like material called dielectric elastomer, which changes shape when exposed to an electric field. This innovative design allows the suit to move with the body, rather than restricting natural movement.
How it Works
The soft exosuit uses a compact battery pack and electrical power system to activate its artificial muscles. The material used for the muscles has been modified to improve its performance, and the researchers have developed modular connectors that allow them to add more fibers when needed. The suit has undergone laboratory testing, with the actuators completing over 100,000 cycles, and has shown promising results in a small treadmill test with six healthy adults.
The test results showed that the volunteers used an average of 13.9% less energy while wearing the suit with the artificial muscles turned on. Sensors also tracked muscle activity, which suggested that the legs needed less effort to complete each step. While this reduction in energy expenditure may seem modest, it could have a significant impact on individuals who struggle with mobility, particularly older adults.
Future Development
While the current prototype is an early research system, the researchers are working to improve its design and functionality. Future clinical trials will need to determine who can use the suit safely and how much support each person needs. The control system also needs to be improved to respond automatically to changes in walking speed or terrain. Additionally, the high-voltage system will require serious safety testing to ensure its suitability for consumer use.
The potential benefits of the soft exosuit are significant, particularly for older adults who may struggle with mobility. A lightweight, wearable device that reduces walking effort could make a substantial difference in daily life, enabling individuals to maintain their independence and stay active for longer. As the researchers continue to refine their design, we may see a breakthrough in mobility support that revolutionizes the way we approach aging and mobility challenges.
Why This Matters
The development of the soft exosuit has the potential to transform the lives of millions of people worldwide, providing a comfortable and effective solution for mobility support. As the global population ages, innovative solutions like the soft exosuit will become increasingly important for maintaining independence and quality of life.