A portable AFO solution for pneumatic actuator with cable tendon mechanism to assist ankle dorsiflexion.

ABSTRACT: The limited portability of pneumatic pumps presents a challenge for ankle-foot orthosis actuated by pneumatic actuators. The high-pressure requirements and time delay responses of pneumatic actuators necessitate a powerful and large pump, which renders the entire device heavy and inconvenient to carry. In this paper, we propose and validate a concept that enhances portability by employing a slack cable tendon mechanism. By managing slack tension properly, the time delay response problem of pneumatic actuators is eliminated through early triggering, and the system can be effectively controlled to generate the desired force for dorsiflexion assistance. The current portable integration of the system weighs approximately 1.6 kg, with distribution of 0.5 kg actuation part on the shank and 1.1 k

SUBMITTER: Wang J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10621736 | biostudies-literature | 2023

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature