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Researchers from Ireland are developing “bionic trousers” to help elderly and disabled people who suffer from reduced leg mobility.
While many exoskeleton devices are claimed to aid those with reduced mobility, the researchers, from the University of Limerick, said they can be inconvenient and aesthetically unpleasant. The XoSoft trousers being developed will use advanced textiles and smart materials to create a light, wearable exoskeleton worn under normal trousers. They will be able to sense and aid movement flexibly.
The project aims to produce prototype trousers by 2019. The soft, biometric, modular exoskeleton will sense “movement intention”, small, detectable movements or tremors in the leg joint muscles, and then aid movement.
It is estimated there are 3.2 million wheelchair users in Europe and another 40 million people who cannot walk without an aid. Dr Leonard O’Sullivan, senior lecturer in human factors and ergonomics at the University of Limerick, said: “Assistive aids are usually bulky, inflexible and can only partially support movement. Neither do they encourage or support the activation of legs, which is essential to prevent further atrophy. This is where XoSoft comes in.”
Sensors will communicate the user’s motion and intention to the controlling unit, located in the belt, which will determine and provide the appropriate level of assistance. Depending on the user’s need, the device will provide support, release or freedom of movement. Data will also be relayed via smartphone and computer to doctors or specialists to monitor and regulate the degree of assistance.
The exact design of the mechanical means to assist movement is yet to be completed, but will use developments from soft robotics and smart materials.
O’Sullivan said that challenges lie around ensuring the soft, smart sensors embedded in the textiles can survive daily wear and tear. The trousers also need to be structured so they can be worn under everyday clothing, as visible devices can make the wearer feel stigmatised.