Assistive Technology Research

KEY FINDING: The study found that a user-centered design approach, involving patients and clinicians, was effective in developing an exoskeleton that addresses user needs.

KEY FINDING: The developed exoskeleton can produce a fingertip force of up to 8 N and cover 91.5 degrees of range of motion in just 3 seconds.

KEY FINDING: The sensor-based algorithm performs similarly well for both SCI patients and healthy controls.

KEY FINDING: Using PAPAWs significantly reduces propulsion effort (RMS torque) and push frequency compared to manual wheelchairs.

KEY FINDING: Both acute and chronic SCI patients showed significant improvements in walking ability after 12 weeks of HAL-assisted bodyweight supported treadmill training (BWSTT).

KEY FINDING: The FIM gait score significantly increased in the AGT subjects compared to their initial score at 1, 2, and 3 months.

KEY FINDING: Participants experienced psychological benefits such as improved mood, increased hope, and the joy of eye-level contact while using the exoskeleton.

KEY FINDING: The original article contained an incorrect Figure 6.

KEY FINDING: The study demonstrated that a 12-week intervention program using a free-standing exoskeleton for weightbearing exercise in those with severe mobility impairment, as a result of SCI, is acceptable, safe and achievable.

KEY FINDING: Stride length significantly increased in both groups after gait training with Healbot T.