Assistive Force Myography Controlled Exoglove

Abstract

Wearable robotic devices like exosuits address mobility challenges in musculoskeletal disorders. While exoskeletons mainly aid in rehabilitation routines, lightweight exosuits provide a cost-effective solution, empowering individuals with motor disabilities in performing daily activities. Characterized by discreet, flexible designs, exosuits seamlessly integrate into daily routines, offering unobtrusive support and enhancing functional independence for those with mobility impairments. This research proposes a novel exoglove controlled via force-myography to restore grasping motor ability in individuals with partial loss of hand-motor function but retaining residual wrist movement. The exosuit aims to provide a tailored solution, offering cost-effective advantages over traditional exoskeletons. The proposed exoglove uses force myography to translate the user’s wrist movements into a motor command to assist grasping. Such an approach could ensure reliable and consistent control for people with partial or total loss of finger motion. With more than 89% accuracy in wrist movement classification, it can operate with minimal effort, moreover, the exoglove preserves natural finger motion, demonstrated by negligible muscle activity variations.