Publication Date
Spring 5-8-2022
Document Type
Article
First Advisor
Kudernatsch, Simon
Second Advisor
Ferdowsi, Hasan
Degree Name
B.S. (Bachelor of Science)
Department
Department of Mechanical Engineering
Abstract
It is no secret that lifting heavy objects is one of the premier causes of workplace injury, and the modern worker needs help to remain healthy. Workers need something they always have with them that makes their work safer as well as easier; our solution is an active lift-assist exoskeleton. The proposed exoskeleton design includes a military backpack exoskeleton frame, on which two actuators pull cables attached to end effectors that the operator will be holding. This system can adjust to conform to a wide variety of operator sizes, without restricting any of their range of motion. This leads to the design being lighter, less complex, and allows a greater range of motion than most conventional exoskeletons. A cable branches from the portion of the frame by the shoulder down to the end effectors for load transfer. It is controlled through wireless communication between the end effectors and the rest of the frame. The team resulted in a completed prototype design proven by simulation to withstand the loads required. Future steps will include testing real world use which includes battery-life, comfortability, and lifting capability.
Recommended Citation
Goes, Erik; Guthrie, Daniel; and Ward, Trevor, "Manual Material Handling Lift-Assist System for Occupational Exoskeleton" (2022). Honors Capstones. 1434.
https://huskiecommons.lib.niu.edu/studentengagement-honorscapstones/1434
Presentation Poster
Senior Design Team 15 Operator's Manual.docx (8863 kB)
Operator's Manual
Liability Form.pdf (130 kB)
Liability Form
Included in
Biomedical Engineering and Bioengineering Commons, Controls and Control Theory Commons, Mechanical Engineering Commons
