前屈姿勢を検知して自動的にCO₂ガスを供給するアシストスーツの開発

抄録

In this study, the assist suit ‘active-type Sustainable’ developed in our previous study was improved to enhance the usefulness and practicality. First, a cover for sensor was built to prevent penetration of rain and dust to the sensor using a 3D printer. Second, the activation switch was improved so that the detection angle of stooped upper body and the number of seconds for countdown can be changed easily. Then, the performance of the improved activation switch was evaluated using the CSLTX method. Third, using a CO₂ gas cylinder as an air source, the number of assistable times was measured under use of 1 artificial muscle and 2 artificial muscles. Finally, experiments of lifting a heavy object were carried out to evaluate an assist effect under use of 1 artificial muscle and 2 artificial muscles. Then, suitable number of artificial muscles was determined in terms of assist effect and cost performance.