Tendon-based design of wrist joint for tongue-controlled exoskeleton - a case study

Abstract

Complete tetraplegia causes paralysis from the neck down, resulting in a need for constant care and lack of doing activities of daily living by yourself. Exoskeletons have enabled some rehabilitation and movement of paralyzed limbs but are often prohibitively large and heavy. This project aimed to redesign the wrist of the tongue controlled EXOTIC exoskeleton, making it compact and light. The new design used tendon-based technology, removing the motor from the forearm as well as employing 3D print. A proof-of-concept for the new design was obtained through a case study with three subjects.