Exoskeleton Suit Supports the Movement

Abstract

Thailand is entering into aging society. Paralysis occurs commonly in this group of people. This is a disease that affects the nervous system, including muscular weakness or Amyo-trophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). Patients may not be able to walk or use their lower part of the body. Hence, physical activity is fundamental to human life, if the elders are not able to walk or use some of their body part, their quality of life will be reduce. For this reason, research and development of an equipment to assist physiotherapy rehabilitation or supports the movement of patients has been made. The focus has been drawn to standing and walking, which will result in a better functioning of the patient’s body. This lead to the creation of the prototype exoskeleton suit supporting the body movement. The wearable device consists of a movement mechanism, and a microcontroller-driven system. The development of the device is based on a normal human’s gait. In addition, the prototype has a mechanism for limiting the degree of movement of the joints in the waist and knee, with both mechanical and electrical security. Finally, this device can help the patient’s body stood up and assist the walk, which allowing them to take care of themselves and not rely on the family and society.