Key features of the exoskeleton
The RISE exoskeleton has several innovative features that address the balance and movement challenges of paraplegics.
- Hybrid knee motor with spring: To minimize weight and keep the center of gravity low, the exoskeleton has a hybrid knee motor with spring. This design increases power density, stores energy during movement and mimics the natural energy-efficient gait of humans.
- Spring-loaded ankle joints: Spring-loaded elements are also built into the ankle joints to compensate for the limited propulsion capabilities of the robot's feet. This enables a more natural rolling motion and reduces the need to lift the foot excessively, making the gait smoother overall.
- More actuators for more mobility: The exoskeleton has four actuators per leg, twice as many as competing designs. This allows for a greater range of motion and facilitates lateral movements, expanding the user's options.
- High torque performance: With a remarkable 310 Newton meters of torque in the knee joints, the RISE exoskeleton delivers almost twice as much force as comparable products. This capability allows the user to perform tasks that require a high level of force.
“It's great to be part of the RISE project because it's about a really good cause. We want to help people to be able to meet their need to walk upright again and enable them to participate better in everyday life,” says student Nicola Dobler. “We are fascinated by the possibility of enriching the lives of people with disabilities and pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the field of exoskeletons for paraplegics,” adds project manager Lukas Schneidewind.
Preparations for the CYBATHLON challenge
The RISE team is busy preparing its exoskeleton for the upcoming CYBATHLON competition in October. The CYBATHLON is an international event showcasing the latest advances in assistive technologies. Participants must complete a series of challenging tasks designed to simulate real-life scenarios.
To ensure that the pilots are well prepared, the team has meticulously recreated all of the CYBATHLON obstacles in the TU Berlin's carpentry workshop. These obstacles include walking five meters without walking aids, descending a staircase with uneven steps, navigating sideways through benches, lifting a crate from a shelf, carrying it to a table and cutting bread.
Continued support sought
While the RISE team has made significant progress, it continues to seek financial support to cover the costs of further development and testing. With initial funding exhausted, the team is actively seeking sponsors to make their innovative exoskeleton a success.
The RISE exoskeleton project at TU Berlin is an example of the transformative power of technology and collaboration in overcoming real-world challenges. With its innovative design and tireless dedication, the team is able to make a significant impact on the lives of people with spinal cord injury, giving them greater mobility, independence and quality of life.
The team also welcomes interested students who would like to participate in its project.
