Developing a lower-limb soft exosuit for human rehabilitation and space application
File(s)
Author(s)
Khan, Shamas
Type
Thesis
Abstract
This thesis presents a novel design for a lower limb soft exosuit that employs pennate-style
actuators and shape memory polymers to enhance resistive exercise regimens with particular consideration for astronaut-specific needs . An essential issue during extended periods of space travel and habitation is the degradation of the musculoskeletal, cardiological and neurological systems. In designing the exosuit, the goal is to address the musculoskeletal system's degradation.
The present study identifies and fills a significant gap in space research based on an extensive literature review. By exploring recent advancements and established understandings in soft robotics, space medicine, and materials science, astronauts will gain a comprehensive understanding of the musculoskeletal challenges they are likely to encounter in microgravity environments.
In light of this solid foundation of understanding, a novel exosuit design is presented. Using a pennate-style actuator, the exosuit design may provide sufficient resistance and actuation efficiency, mimicking the architecture and operation of human muscles. Furthermore, the exosuit design utilises shape memory polymers, which provide morphological adaptability and energy efficiency. The suit is made from materials that conform to the specific physical characteristics of the user and respond to the demands of exercise. At this stage, the thesis outlines a conceptual design of the exosuit without implementing prototypes or experimenting with it. Consequently, it lays the foundation for subsequent research to bring to life this concept by elucidating potential methodologies for these future steps. For prolonged and deeper space missions, astronauts are challenged to maintain their health, which is a pressing issue. Its comprehensive exploration and innovative design lays the foundation for future research in space biomechanics, soft robotics, and astronaut physiology.
actuators and shape memory polymers to enhance resistive exercise regimens with particular consideration for astronaut-specific needs . An essential issue during extended periods of space travel and habitation is the degradation of the musculoskeletal, cardiological and neurological systems. In designing the exosuit, the goal is to address the musculoskeletal system's degradation.
The present study identifies and fills a significant gap in space research based on an extensive literature review. By exploring recent advancements and established understandings in soft robotics, space medicine, and materials science, astronauts will gain a comprehensive understanding of the musculoskeletal challenges they are likely to encounter in microgravity environments.
In light of this solid foundation of understanding, a novel exosuit design is presented. Using a pennate-style actuator, the exosuit design may provide sufficient resistance and actuation efficiency, mimicking the architecture and operation of human muscles. Furthermore, the exosuit design utilises shape memory polymers, which provide morphological adaptability and energy efficiency. The suit is made from materials that conform to the specific physical characteristics of the user and respond to the demands of exercise. At this stage, the thesis outlines a conceptual design of the exosuit without implementing prototypes or experimenting with it. Consequently, it lays the foundation for subsequent research to bring to life this concept by elucidating potential methodologies for these future steps. For prolonged and deeper space missions, astronauts are challenged to maintain their health, which is a pressing issue. Its comprehensive exploration and innovative design lays the foundation for future research in space biomechanics, soft robotics, and astronaut physiology.
Version
Open Access
Date Issued
2023-06
Date Awarded
2024-01
Copyright Statement
Creative Commons Attribution NonCommercial Licence
License URL
Advisor
Burdet, Etienne
Publisher Department
Computing
Publisher Institution
Imperial College London
Qualification Level
Masters
Qualification Name
Master of Philosophy (MPhil)