Improving the Design of an Industrial Exoskeleton Prototype Using Innovative Technologies

Abstract

The work is devoted to the study and improvement of the design efficiency of industrial exoskeletons. Such devices are needed to perform the work that requires high physical activity in various production processes. To determine the optimal design, the developments of foreign and domestic markets were studied. It was revealed that the exoskeleton developed by Karfidov Lab LLC has the highest performance characteristics compared to the analogues. However, this design lacks a convenient saddle attachment system to support the user, and the exoskeleton is heavy — 6 kg. The authors proposed the modernization of the design of an industrial exoskeleton for the lower extremities. Modernization is associated with the use of solutions aimed at reducing the weight of the exoskeleton, as well as improving ergonomics by developing a saddle for each leg of the exoskeleton and a user fixation system. For this purpose, a solid-state 3D model and design documentation for producing exoskeleton were developed in the SolidWorks environment. To reduce the weight of the exoskeleton, plastic parts were used. The exoskeleton provides support for the user body, made in the form of a vest, as well as a fixation system in the form of straps located on the foot, shin, and thigh. To ensure increased shock absorption with an active exoskeleton, a gas spring manufactured by Suspa, model Varilock EL2-111-79-600N, was installed. To increase the strength of plastic parts, the reinforcement method was used. A saddle is introduced that provides a soft contact between the user and the system in the active and passive positions of the exoskeleton. The main requirements for the modernized development were the low cost of the final product and the lightness of the overall mass of the structure.