Adaptable Segmented Straps with Anti-slip Pads for Modular Assistive Knee Exoskeleton Enhancement

This paper introduces a modular assistive knee exoskeleton designed to enhance physical gait assistance. The exoskeleton is engineered to support flexion/extension motions of the knee joint to mitigate slippage across various activities (walking, sit-stand, and walking up-down stairs) and accommodate personalized adjustments. A specific design approach involving a flexible strap with an anti-slip pad feature is proposed to address these requirements. The results indicate that our design is more effective in maintaining its position than the traditional one in all testing activities and can reduce a peak torque at the extreme slipping position during walking by 47% compared to the traditional design. This research contributes to the advancement of assistive technologies for mobility support and offers insights into the practical implementation of modular exoskeleton systems.