Honda Motor Co Ltd prototyped a "walking assist device with bodyweight support system," which supports part of the user's bodyweight to reduce the load on the legs, and demonstrated its operation for the first time.
The device is expected to be used while walking, going up and down stairs and in other movements that put a heavy load on leg muscles and joints, such as working in a semi-crouching position. Honda hopes that the device will be "used as readily as power-assisted bicycles."
The main components of the prototype are a seat, a frame and a pair of special shoes. The device can be used after the user puts it on by wearing the shoes and lifting up the seat with both hands.
To support part of the user's bodyweight, the device uses two motors on both sides to bend and extend the robotic "knee" of the frame located between the shoes and the seat. It is designed so that the assisting force is always directed toward the user's center of gravity.
The device supports the user's bodyweight in various movements. The assisting force is adjusted in accordance with the degree in which the knees are bent or extended so that the bodyweight supported by the device varies depending on the situation.
For example, the assisting force increases when the user goes up the stairs or takes a semi-crouching position. Specifically, the device absorbs approximately 3kg for both legs when the user is standing and about 9-10kg when the use is in a crouching position.
The assisting force is controlled by multiple pressure sensors, etc embedded in the shoes. The pressure sensors also measure the balance between the two legs and control the force directed toward them. For example, when the user is standing on one foot, the assisting force is applied only to that foot.
When wearing the prototype, the user is not allowed to jump, run or place all the body weight on the seat.
The assist device is equipped with a safety measure to prevent fingers from being caught in the back of the robotic knee. In addition, the device is designed so that part of it will break when an excessive load is applied.
The device is can be used by a person with a height of a preset value ±5cm. For example, the set height for the medium size model is about 170cm, according to the company.
The device weighs about 6.5kg, including the shoes and the battery pack. The device has multiple Li-ion rechargeable battery packs, which are attached on the back side of the robotic thigh. The operating time per charge is rabout two hours.
Honda did not comment on the target price or whether it is planning to commercialize the device. The company will start looking for specific applications and markets from now on. But, initially aiming at industrial applications, the company plans to examine the effectiveness of the device at its factory in Sayama City in Saitama Prefecture, Japan from November 2008, having employees wear the prototype.
The company intends to probe into the problems and make improvements. The device is expected to alleviate the workers' fatigue as well as to prevent the loss of concentration, the company said.
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