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U of M College of Engineering Control Seminar Series Sponsored by Ford Motor Company, General Motors, and Whirlpool |
Robotic Exoskeletons for Human Locomotion
Professor Dan Ferris
Human Neuromechanics
Laboratory
Department of
Movement Science
and Biomedical
Engineering
University of
Michigan
Abstract:
Robotic exoskeletons for
assisting human movement have long been a common feature in science fiction
tales. Sigourney Weaver's robo-loader in ALIENS and Wallace and Gromit's
Techno-Trousers in The Wrong Trousers are just two examples of fictional
exoskeletons. Technological advances are now making robotic exoskeletons a
reality. Numerous laboratories around the world have developed working
prototypes. One goal of the devices that has figured prominently in the media
is making soldiers faster, stronger, and indefatigable (i.e. human performance
augmentation). Another is to substitute for human motor control in
neurologically impaired individuals (i.e. assistive technology). The Human
Neuromechanics Laboratory at The University of Michigan is building robotic
exoskeletons for two different purposes. First, we use lower limb exoskeletons
for basic physiology experiments. Adding external power at the lower limb
joints allows us to probe the interrelationship between the mechanics,
metabolic cost, and neural control of human walking. Second, we are developing
powered lower limb braces for rehabilitation after spinal cord injury. The idea
is to provide limited assistance to spinal cord injury patients while they practice
walking on a treadmill, allowing them to re-learn how to walk. Dr. Ferris will
describe current exoskeletons used in his laboratory and present results from
both neurologically intact and spinal cord injury subjects.
3:30 – 4:30 p.m.