Concept of wear-type muscular support apparatus (muscle suit)

Abstract

In order to enable people who can not move to move, we have been developing "muscle suit" by wearing which muscular force can be supported. Muscle suit consists of wear and Mckibben type actuator driven by compressed air. Because actuators are sewed in wear, it is no need to use metal frame and thus muscle suit comes to very light and cheap. Most of medical and welfare apparatus have been developing for dare giver and then there is few apparatus for people in need of nursing care. As the result, they lost their own identity and positive attitude. It is possible for them, by wearing the muscle suit, to enable their body such as arms and legs to control by their own will. The muscle suit thus are very useful and helpful not only for muscular force support but also mental support.