A "Smart" exoskeleton will be able to move instead of a person

The IEEE Robotics and Automation Letters research center has created a new lightweight lower-body exoskeleton made of carbon fiber.

The part that attaches to the hips weighs no more than 604 grams, while the piece that connects to the shins weighs 206 grams.

The feature of this exoskeleton is not only the perfection of its dimensions and material but also the fact that it can read the intentions of its wearer, i.e., to anticipate their desire to move in one direction or another and perform the movement for them. It is made possible by machine learning and measurement of muscle activity.

The participants performed various actions during the experiment, including those with similar movements. For example, they stood up, bent over, stepped from foot to foot, etc. The skeleton is trained to recognize the wearer's intentions in the process. Once adapted, began predicting and assisting with further movement. Because of this, IEEE Robotics and Automation Letters exoskeletons have the potential for further use among people with disabilities. For example, exoskeleton suits can help locomotor recovery after injury. Or as a more convenient replacement for a wheelchair.