Realization of All 7 Motions for the Upper Limb by a Muscle Suit

Abstract

A “muscle suit” that provides muscular support for those paralyzed or otherwise unable to move unaided is being developed. The absence of a metal frame and use of McKibben artificial muscles makes the suit lightweight enough for practical use. We propose an armor-like suit and abduction motion is realized. Because it is difficult to implement all upper limb motion in an armor-like suit, we use mechanical joints and a hard frame and all motion is achieved for the upper limb.