Exoskeletons

Definition

Exoskeletons are wearable devices that enhance or restore mobility for individuals with physical impairments or mobility challenges. These assistive technologies can support the user's body and augment their movements, allowing for improved mobility, stability, and independence in daily activities.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Exoskeletons can be powered or passive; powered exoskeletons use motors and sensors to assist movement, while passive exoskeletons rely on mechanical structures to support the body.
2. These devices can help individuals regain mobility after spinal cord injuries or strokes by providing stability and enabling walking or standing.
3. Exoskeletons have applications beyond medical use, including assisting workers in physically demanding jobs to reduce fatigue and prevent injuries.
4. The development of exoskeletons involves interdisciplinary fields such as biomechanics, robotics, and materials science to create lightweight and effective devices.
5. Ongoing research aims to improve the affordability and accessibility of exoskeleton technology, making it more widely available for those in need.

Review Questions

• How do exoskeletons enhance mobility for individuals with physical impairments?
  • Exoskeletons enhance mobility by providing external support that assists users in performing movements they may struggle with due to physical impairments. These devices can help users regain the ability to walk, stand, or perform daily activities by augmenting their strength and stability. By integrating advanced sensors and motors, powered exoskeletons can adapt to the user's movements, offering a more natural experience that promotes independence.
• Discuss the differences between powered and passive exoskeletons and their specific applications in rehabilitation.
  • Powered exoskeletons utilize motors and sensors to assist users in movement actively, making them ideal for rehabilitation settings where users need maximum support to regain functionality. In contrast, passive exoskeletons do not have motors; instead, they rely on mechanical structures to provide support without power assistance. While powered exoskeletons are often used in clinical rehabilitation for intensive therapy, passive versions may be more suitable for everyday use or in work environments where users need assistance without heavy machinery.
• Evaluate the potential impact of advancing exoskeleton technology on rehabilitation practices and workplace safety.
  • Advancements in exoskeleton technology could significantly transform rehabilitation practices by providing customized solutions tailored to individual needs, potentially accelerating recovery times and improving quality of life. In workplace safety, these devices could reduce injuries caused by repetitive strain or heavy lifting by assisting workers in physically demanding tasks. As exoskeletons become more accessible and affordable, their integration into both rehabilitation settings and various industries may reshape how we approach mobility support and injury prevention.

Related terms

Orthotics: Devices designed to support, align, prevent, or correct deformities or improve the function of movable parts of the body.

Robotics: The technology associated with the design, construction, operation, and use of robots, which can be applied to create advanced exoskeletal systems.

Rehabilitation Technology: Technology used to assist individuals with disabilities in their recovery process, often involving adaptive devices or therapies aimed at improving functional abilities.