Robotic exosuit to improve walking and gait rehabilitation for stroke survivors: A review

Abstract

Stroke survivors are typically having locomotion impairments that cause the gait asymmetry and mobility deterioration. The major contributors to this condition are impaired paretic leg and muscle weakness. Researchers put their attention and interest on the rapid development of robotic exosuit and its technology. Such as the actuator becomes more lightweight, using multi-sensors for human and robot interface and controller, a neural or adaptive oscillator for human-machine synchronization and cognitive function in the control of gait and fall prevention. This review paper aims to provide and explain the development of robotic exosuit assistive strategies and technologies that comprise of actuator, sensor as a controller, muscle activity, human-machine interface, and control strategy. The review will focused on the robotic exosuit with purpose to improve walking and gait rehabilitation without the augmentation apparatus for heavy tasks.