Assistive Technology Research

KEY FINDING: Phasic electromyographic activity was developed in the left tibialis anterior muscle during plantar dorsiflexion of the ankle joint after the intervention.

KEY FINDING: Participants in G1 were able to complete the 10MWT, 6MWT, and TUG, and the mean (SD) scores were 0.2 m/s (0.2), 66.3 m (61.2) and 113.3 s (117.4), respectively.

KEY FINDING: Trajectory optimization improved the ability to reach targets compared to naive direct-to-target paths.

KEY FINDING: The synergy-based actuation strategy results in only slight alterations to the distribution of forces across the fingers, compared to a natural, unassisted grasping pattern.

KEY FINDING: The algorithm reduced the estimated thigh segment’s angle RMS error from 6.3° to 2.5°.

KEY FINDING: End-users identified challenges such as lack of knowledge about the system, safety concerns, technical difficulties, cost, limited time and space, and suggested solutions at different levels.

KEY FINDING: The MMG-driven switch achieved an average sensitivity of 99.7 ± 0.4% and specificity of 99.9 ± 0.1%.

KEY FINDING: In neurologically intact subjects, EMG activity of leg muscles was similar or even larger during exoskeleton-assisted walking compared to normal overground walking.

KEY FINDING: Almost all participants used prescribed wheelchair cushions in their wheelchairs.

KEY FINDING: The training led to significant changes in the area of the push loop, indicating that participants were bringing their hands down toward the axles of their wheelchairs during propulsion.