Biologically Inspired Exoskeleton Arm Enhancement Comparing Fluidic McKibben Muscle Insertions for Lifting Operations

Abstract

Exoskeletons are being used in the industry to help individuals improve their endurance while reducing their chance of injury. These exoskeletons are based on human anatomy. To obtain the workspace of an exoskeleton, mathematical models are developed and simulated which is then refined to get the desired movements of an exoskeleton. Some of these exoskeletons are mechanically operated while others use complex control systems to perform a selected task. This can be achieved by using a combination of mechanical designs and electronics. Research of how exoskeleton functions and the types of exoskeletons are presented to achieve an overall workable exoskeleton. By implementing human assistive exoskeletons in industry, the unemployment rate can be decreased while creating the symbiotic association between man and machine. This study was conducted to determine the functionality of biologically inspired exoskeletons in an industrial environment.