Аннотация:
An exoskeleton is a wearable robotic device, powered with passive or active
systems, that allows limbs or trunk movement with increased strength and/or
endurance. This is in line with the philosophy of Industry 4.0, in which humans
can be assisted by technological devices in difficult or unsafe tasks. Various
passive upper limb exoskeletons have been developed in the last years for indus
trial applications. In particular, occupational tasks that require postures with
elevated arms or overhead works, and hence represent a high risk factor for mus
culoskeletal disorders, are considered. Passive exoskeleton devices give a fixed
contribution, independently from the external applied load. Usually they are de
signed to compensate, partially or totally, the gravity forces acting on the limb
or on the trunk. However only few studies investigated effectiveness, usability,
comfort, drawbacks and biomechanical strains associated to the use of upper
limb exoskeleton in power augmentation tasks. The proposed project aims to
develop an assistive exoskeleton designed for surgeons in clinical settings. The
assistive functionality will be achieved through gravity compensation, utilizing
passive 4-bar mechanisms. A key advantage of such an exoskeleton should lie in
its reliance on a mechanism that eliminates the need for electrical components
and actuators. Consequently, the device should be lightweight and relatively
simple to manufacture. The primary mechanical components of the exoskeleton
will consist of 3D printed linkages and springs.