Researchers from the University of Bristol, University of the West of England, University of Nottingham, University of Leeds, University of Strathclyde, University of Southampton and Loughborough University have just been given nearly $3 million by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) to develop robotic clothing.
The soft, but mechanical, clothing will allow people who suffer from mobility impairments, physical disabilities, and age-related muscle weakening to move freely and independently. The team aims to create easy-to-use, comfortable, and adaptable clothing will cater to a variety of mobility needs.
“Smart trousers,” as they are referred to, could even support people while walking and add “bionic strength” so they can easily adjust between sitting and standing positions, as well as climb stairs. The team envisions that the technology would replace home stair-lifts and other bulky and uncomfortable mobility and stability aids — even replace wheelchairs for some.
This intelligent clothing or “second skin” will use artificial muscles made from smart materials and reactive polymers that are capable of exerting great forces. In order to develop the technology, the team will employ wearable soft robotics, nanoscience, 3D fabrication, functional electrical stimulation and full-body monitoring technologies, as well as recruit the help of potential users, who will be directly involved in the project.
In addition, the smart clothing will be equipped with control systems that monitor the wearers and adapt to offer the most natural assistance by working with the body’s existing muscles.
“For patients needing rehabilitation the smart clothing can initially provide strong support and subsequently reduce assistance as the patient recovers mobility and strength,” according to EPSRC, where the project was revealed.
While existing devices used by those with mobility issues can cause circulation problems, skin pressure damage or fall vulnerability, the team believes that wearable soft robotics has the potential to alleviate many of these patients problems and reduce healthcare costs.
The researchers have begun developing the technology
Comments are closed, but trackbacks and pingbacks are open.