Design and development of a novel sit-to-stand and mobility assistive device for ambulation and elderly

Abstract

The present work aims to design a novel mobility assistive device which incorporates an automated lifting technique following human sit-to-stand transfer trajectory. Experiments have been conducted to record the sit-to-stand trajectory for 10 different candidates using 3D motion capture cameras. Here, a pantograph mechanism is employed to replicate the sit-to-stand transfer trajectory. The mechanism is coupled to a structural framework which works as a walking assistive device post lifting. A prototype is fabricated to verify the design aspects of the device. For validation, the proposed design is simulated and analyzed for ergonomic consideration in a virtual CAD environment. Results in terms of body angles and comfort regions are shown at three different positions of the trajectory followed during the lift. The proposed device may help in the mobility of the patients during ambulatory care and the elderly by providing safety and preventing sudden fall, ensuring user comfort.