Prosthetics

Computer vision can be used by robotic leg prostheses and exoskeletons to improve transitions between different locomotion modes (e.g., level-ground walking and stair ascent) via prediction of oncoming environmental states. We developed the StairNet dataset to support research and development in vision-based automated stair recognition.

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Synergistic prostheses enable the coordinated movement of the human-prosthetic arm, as required by activities of daily living. This is achieved by coupling the motion of the prosthesis to the human command, such as residual limb movement in motion-based interfaces. Previous studies demonstrated that developing human-prosthetic synergies in joint-space must consider individual motor behaviour and the intended task to be performed, requiring personalisation and task calibration.

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Abstract: Recent advances in computer vision and deep learning are allowing researchers to develop automated environment recognition systems for robotic leg prostheses and exoskeletons. However, small-scale and private training datasets have impeded the widespread development and dissemination of image classification algorithms (e.g., convolutional neural networks) for recognizing the human walking environment.

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Previous studies of robotic leg prostheses and exoskeletons with regenerative actuators have focused almost exclusively on level-ground walking applications. Here we analyzed the lower-limb joint mechanical work and power during stand-to-sit movements using inverse dynamics to estimate the biomechanical energy theoretically available for electrical energy regeneration and storage. Nine subjects performed 20 sitting and standing movements while lower-limb kinematics and ground reaction forces were experimentally measured.

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