Journal of Robotics and Mechatronics
Online ISSN : 1883-8049
Print ISSN : 0915-3942
ISSN-L : 0915-3942
Special Issue on Fluid Powered System and its Application
Active Cloth Fabricated by a Flat String Machine and its Application to a Safe Wheelchair System
Makoto TakadaShuichi WakimotoTakero OshikawaTakeji UedaTakefumi Kanda
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JOURNAL OPEN ACCESS

2020 Volume 32 Issue 5 Pages 1010-1018

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Abstract

In this study, a pneumatically contracting active cloth has been developed; its application is proposed for a safe sitting-posture recovery system for wheelchair users to avoid fall-related accidents. The active cloth consists of thin artificial muscles knitted via a flat string machine. The safe wheelchair system is configured with an active cloth and seating pressure sensor. The seating pressure sensor, located on the seating surface of the wheelchair, estimates the inclination of the upper body of the user; when this reaches an angle that is dangerous for falling from the wheelchair, the active cloth contracts to correct the posture of the upper body. In this paper, we clarify the fabrication process and fundamental characteristics of the active cloth and indicate its potential as a mechanical element for welfare apparatuses by demonstrating a safe wheelchair system.

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