Design and Fabrication of Powered Exoskeleton for Patients of Incomplete Paraplegia
Authors
NAVEED ULLAH, SYED ATIF NAWAZ, SAAD SHAH and ASIM
Abstract
This study addresses the pressing issue of paraplegia, a debilitating condition characterized by the loss of voluntary lower limb movement due to spinal cord injuries. Drawing upon data from the Paraplegic Center Peshawar's, Pakistan Annual Report (2019-2020), revealing that 67.5% of reported spinal injuries pertain to paraplegic patients, this research emphasizes the urgency of developing effective interventions for this population. Conventional approaches, including physical therapy and passive assistive devices, have demonstrated efficacy in cases of incomplete paraplegia. However, to address the limitations of existing methods, this study proposes the integration of active assistive technology, with a specific focus on powered exoskeletons. These innovative devices employ a sophisticated array of sensors, microcontrollers, and actuators to facilitate the attainment of a normative gait pattern, thus enhancing the performance of daily life activities. Despite the demonstrable benefits of powered exoskeletons, their commercial availability remains limited, particularly in developing nations. This research project endeavors to bridge this gap by conceptualizing and fabricating a locally-sourced prototype, marking the initial stride toward realizing this vital technology. Through an exhaustive exploration of the existing literature, it was discerned that a dearth of South Asian-specific guidance exists for aspiring developers of this technology. Additionally, the scarcity of essential hardware components, such as rotary actuators and batteries, in the local market posed a formidable challenge. The endeavor undertaken herein demanded substantial temporal and financial resources, rendering the pursuit seemingly daunting and, in some respects, unrealistic. However, against the odds, the project achieved its primary objectives, underscoring its feasibility and potential for further refinement and expansion. This study serves as a beacon of progress, illustrating that despite inherent challenges, transformative advancements in assistive technology for paraplegic patients can be realized.
