Development of Rehabilitation Equipment Using Metal Hydride (MH) actuators

Abstract

We have developed a metal hydride(MH) actuator that uses the reversible reaction between the heat energy and mechanical energy of a hydrogen absorbing alloy. The MH actuator has a large output per weight unit and is noiseless and smooth-acting. Therefore, the MH actuator is suitable for use in medical and rehabilitation applications.

In this paper, the features of the MH actuator and the applications to a wheelchair with lifter, a toilet lifter and a toilet seat lifter are introduced.