Selection and Evaluation of Appropriate Assist Force for Standing and Sitting Motion Assist Devices Using Residual Function

Abstract

Supporting the elderly by utilizing their remaining functions will lead to the extension of their healthy life span. In this study, we developed a portable cane-type standing and sitting positional mobility support device. In this study, we developed a cane-type mobility support device, and selected a suitable support direction for elderly people by dynamic analysis simulation. In addition, the necessary assisting force for the elderly was examined and the assisting force was set. The effectiveness of the device was evaluated by measuring the surface electromyogram of healthy subjects. As a result, it was found that the specifications of this device were effective when the assist direction was 30 degrees and the assist force was 110 N. From the measurement of the surface electromyogram, it was found that the device was effective for both standing and sitting motions. It also helps to ensure the safety of the sitting motion of elderly people.