Real-Time Strap Pressure Sensor System for Powered Exoskeletons

The study introduces a system designed to monitor the pressure exerted by exoskeleton straps on the user's body. This system aims to prevent skin injuries in mobility-impaired patients using powered exoskeletons by providing data on skin/body pressure levels. The system comprises sensing arrays, signal processing hardware with wireless transmission, and an interactive GUI, validated using a lower-body exoskeleton.

• 1
  The pressure monitoring system successfully recorded pressure dynamics in the fastening straps of a lower-limb exoskeleton for both able-bodied and SCI subjects.
• 2
  Uneven tensioning of straps during standard fastening procedures can lead to greater relative pressures in certain areas, particularly the lower part of the left thigh.
• 3
  Pressures measured for the SCI patient were significantly higher than those measured for the able-bodied subject, suggesting the SCI patient's full weight was carried by the exoskeleton's strapping mechanisms.