Client
Personal Project
Year
2025
Duration
5 months
Tags
Robotics, Embedded Systems
A single-DoF robotic knee exoskeleton designed to assist individuals with quadriceps weakness or paralysis, restoring controlled knee extension during everyday movements. The system is built around a quasi-direct drive BLDC servo motor capable of delivering up to 60 Nm peak torque, enabling smooth and responsive actuation for tasks such as sitting, standing, walking, and stair navigation.
The project was developed as a fully integrated mechatronic system, combining custom mechanical design, embedded electronics, and real-time control. The actuator architecture prioritizes low backlash and high torque density, while the structural components are optimized for strength, weight, and wearability. A custom control interface allows intuitive operation via a handheld remote, ensuring ease of use in real-world scenarios.
Beyond functionality, significant attention was given to build quality and physical detailing. The device was carefully assembled, finished, and refined to achieve a cohesive and robust final artifact—bridging the gap between experimental prototype and product-level execution.
The result is a compact, wearable assistive device that demonstrates how precise actuation and thoughtful system integration can translate into meaningful mobility support outside of controlled laboratory environments.
Problem
Quadriceps paralysis or severe weakness means the knee cannot be actively stabilized during movement. This makes basic actions like standing up, sitting down, walking, or using stairs difficult, unsafe, and physically exhausting. As a result, patients often rely on compensatory movements or external support, leading to reduced mobility and increased risk of falls.
Need
Patients need a lightweight, wearable, and easy-to-use system that can restore knee stability and support everyday movements without restricting natural motion. The solution should be reliable in real-life conditions and simple enough to operate without complex setup or constant supervision.
Solution
Developed a single-DoF robotic knee exoskeleton powered by a high-torque quasi-direct drive actuator, enabling controlled assistance for daily movements such as sitting, standing, walking, and stair navigation. The system is designed to be wearable, intuitive to operate via remote control, and focused on real-world usability.