Robotic AFO to enhance walking capacity: initial development

Abstract

The development of an active ankle foot orthosis (AFO) to enhance the walking capacity is presented. The proposed device consists of a linear actuator mechanism with supportive brace and is controlled by measuring user's interaction force. Initial experimental characterisation of performance of the control system and system usability tested on healthy individuals are reported. Results indicate a decrease in muscle activation, by a factor of 29 and 26% for plantar flexion and dorsiflexion motion while walking with assistance from the developed AFO. The developed system has potential application in the field of assistive technology for geriatrics or for patient with mobility impairments, muscle weakness or as a performance enhancer.