April 14, 2024

Workshop Exoskeleton Day

Optimization of Exoskeleton Design through Exploration of Ergonomic

Principles and Control Modes

After the event Exoskeleton Day 

As stakeholders continue to unite in pursuit of technological breakthroughs, the focus remains on leveraging collective expertise to propel the evolution of exoskeletons into more accessible and impactful solutions for diverse user needs. During our one day workshop, we explored innovative approaches to enhance exoskeleton accessibility, functionality, and integration. The following non-exhaustive list summarizes the needs discussed during the morning session:

  • Developing practical solutions to prevent falls
  • Rapid hypothesis testing
  • Enhancing system adaptability
  • Optimizing sensor quantity and usage
  • Tailoring tasks to diverse groups
  • Addressing variability
  • Improving accessibility and usability of exoskeletons
  • Enhancing software and hardware for better ergonomics and control
  • Improving human-machine interaction
  • Enhancing accuracy
  • Reducing weight
  • Optimizing sensor and actuator content and configuration
  • Improving feedback mechanisms for users in need

 

With the input of participants, the following challenges were identified for further discussion:

Proposed solutions for the Challenge on Accessibility of Prices

    • Using different materials in actuators (e.g., lighter)
    • Developing suitable actuators for exoskeletons
    • Exploring innovative actuator structures (e.g. length)
    • Create home solutions
    • Leveraging open-source software resources

Proposed solutions for the Challenge on Practical Solutions to Fall Prevention

    • Bio-inspired designs,
    • Advanced fall detection using various sensors such as GRF,
    • Motors with very low inertia,
    • Increasing support points.

Proposed solutions for the Challenge of Creating Synergies Among Designers, Users, and Funders

    • Standardized international structures,Proposed solutions include
    • Organizing forums and events for stakeholders to meet,
    • Fostering collaboration among diverse actors (users, researchers, laboratories, insurers) under effective leadership.

 

 

The Agenda of the day:

09:00 – 10:00 Welcome Coffee

10:00 – 10:30 Introduction to Case Studies

10:30 – 11:30 Case Panel 1:

Ergonomic Design Optimization: Analysis of exoskeleton ergonomics, including comfort, support for natural movement, and fatigue reduction.

  • Prof. Dr. Sebastian Tobler, SCI-Mobility Lab, Bern University of Applied Sciences, CEO of GBY SA
  • Dr. Jemina Fasola, R&D Engineer, Twiice
  • Mr. Max Erick Busse-Grawitz, Technology Transfer Manager, maxon international ltd.
  • Ms. Chiara Meli, Product Development Engineer, Auxivo

11:30 – 12:30 Case Panel 2:

Control System Integration: Exploration of different control modalities and their applications to improve user interaction and functionality.

  • Prof. Dr. Sebastian Tobler, SCI-Mobility Lab, Bern University of Applied Sciences, CEO of GBY SA
  • Mr. Ali Reza Manzoori, REHAssist Group, BIOROB and TNE Lab, EPFL
  • Dr. Olivier Pajot, Innovation Cell Manager, Sonceboz SA
  • Dr. Luca Randazzo, CEO, Emovocare

12:30 – 14:00 Lunch and Networking

14:00 – 15:30 Ideation Workshop

15:30 – 16:00 Coffee Break, Exchange of Ideas

16:00 – 17:00 Presentation of Solutions and Closing

 

Objective:

The Workshop on Exoskeleton aimed to bring together experts and enthusiasts in the field of assistive robotics, as well as potential users, to explore the intersection of ergonomics and control systems in exoskeleton design. Through interactive discussions, case studies, and practical exercises, participants gained insights to optimize exoskeletons for enhanced systems management, improve comfort, and user interaction, ultimately aiming to improve the quality of life for individuals with mobility impairments.

 

Date: June 18th, 2024

Location: Bâtiment BC 410, EPFL

Language : French