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New Robot Technology Concept Applicable to Human Physical Support - The Concept and Possibility of the Muscle Suit (Wearable Muscular Support Apparatus) -
Hiroshi Kobayashi*, Taisuke Matsushita*, Yusuke Ishida**, and Kohki Kikuchi***
*Department of Engineering, Tokyo University of Science, 1-3 Kagurazaka, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 162-0825, Japan
**Graduate School, Tokyo Universigy of Science, 1-3 Kagumazaka, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 162-0825, Japan
***Department of Precision Machine, Chiba Institute of Technology, 2-17-1 Tsudanuma, Narashino, Chiba 275-0016, Japan
Received:July 27, 2001Accepted:February 12, 2001Published:February 20, 2002
Keywords:medical and welfare apparatus, muscular support apparatus, muscle suit, McKibben type actuator, cheap and light apparatus
Abstract
To the paralyzed or those otherwise enable to move on their own, we have been developing "muscle suit" providing muscular support. Muscle suit are worn and use a McKibben actuator driven by compressed air. Because actuators are sewn into a garment, no metal frame is needed, making a muscle suit very light and cheap. Most medical and welfare apparatuses were developing for caregivers rather than patients in need of nursing, causing patients to lose their own identity and a positive attitude. With muscle suit, they could control their movement of their own will. Muscle suit are very helpful for muscular and mental support.
Cite this article as:H. Kobayashi, T. Matsushita, Y. Ishida, and K. Kikuchi, “New Robot Technology Concept Applicable to Human Physical Support - The Concept and Possibility of the Muscle Suit (Wearable Muscular Support Apparatus) -,” J. Robot. Mechatron., Vol.14 No.1, pp. 46-53, 2002.Data files:
Copyright© 2002 by Fuji Technology Press Ltd. and Japan Society of Mechanical Engineers. All right reserved.
