A prototype of an active elbow orthosis problems of mechanical design and orthosis control

S. Angelova, P. Raykov, E. Petrov, R. Raikova

Abstract: There are many people having problems with movements in the upper limbs due to stroke, transport and sport traumas, different neuro-muscular diseases. Self-rehabilitation is the best way to help these people to return to normal life. It can be achieved with the help of a light and wearable orthotic device with autonomous power supply and control. This paper presents a prototype of an elbow orthosis driven by electrical actuator supplied with power from electrical batteries. The original mechanical parts are designed using CAD program and printed from plastic using 3D printer. To have higher torque an additional reduction gear-belt drive is added. For a safe use, limiters for elbow angle range are applied mechanically, electrically and by software. It is foreseen in the future to incorporate electromyography sensors that will take signals from main elbow flexors and extensors, and those signals after processing will be used as control signals to the actuator.

Series on Biomechanics, Vol.35 No.3 (2021), 3-11

Keywords: 3D printing; Elbow; orthosis; rehabilitation

Date published: 2021-10-26