University of Twente Student Theses
Body Weight Support System for LOPES2
Dekker, M. (2013) Body Weight Support System for LOPES2.
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| Abstract: | LOPES2 (LOwer-extremity Powered ExoSkeleton) is a robotic device for gait training and assessment of motor function in stroke survivors. Large forces applied by LOPES2 are experienced as uncomfortable by the patient, affecting rehabilitation efficiency. A Body Weight Support System (BWSS) is therefore required for unloading the lower extremities in patients who are unable to carry their own body weight. A previous design of a BWSS for LOPES2 was unsuccessful. The goal of this project is to propose a simpler, less costly and more appropriate redesign. The most important user requirements are easy patient (un)mounting from and to a wheelchair, adjustable support force which is constant during operation and a mechanism which prevents the patient from falling. The problem is subdivided into functionalities, being a constant force source, a transmission, allowing horizontal movement, falling security and adjustment of height and force. Solutions for these functionalities are analysed theoretically, after which a concept-design is proposed. Prototypes will be built for the constant force source and the transmission. A non-circular pulley is chosen as a constant force source, while a lever-transmission is used as transmission. A small-scale prototype showed adjustable constant force behaviour, but with a peak error of 8% in an extreme situation. Horizontal movement is made possible with the use of a series hinge-linear guidance. The operator can adjust the operation height with an electrical worm-drive winch. This winch, combined with mechanical falling endstops, can be used as an elevator to quickly mount and unmount patients. |
| Item Type: | Internship Report (Master) |
| Clients: | MOOG B.V., the Netherlands |
| Faculty: | ET: Engineering Technology |
| Subject: | 52 mechanical engineering |
| Programme: | Mechanical Engineering MSc (60439) |
| Keywords: | Body Weight Support System, BWSS, LOPES2, adjustable constant force mechanism, non-circular pulley, prototype |
| Link to this item: | https://purl.utwente.nl/essays/69339 |
| Export this item as: | BibTeX EndNote HTML Citation Reference Manager |
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