A CON 2010
Bodyweight Support Assist
Bodyweight Support Assist, experimental model. Fundamental Technology Research Center, Honda R&D Co., Ltd. Japan, 1999–2010. CPU, hip angle sensors, brushless motors. Courtesy of designer
Honda is traditionally known for automobiles, but for years the company has been conducting research to develop technologies that enhance the broader theme of human mobility. The Bodyweight Support Assist is a recent prototype that assists workers who spend extended periods of time on their feet standing, climbing or descending stairs, or maintaining semi-crouched positions, such as assembly-line workers. The device may also help the elderly get around easier. It is a next-generation product for Honda, based on studies of human walking that resulted in ASIMO, the company’s humanoid robot.
The Bodyweight Support Assist, an exoskeleton for the lower body, reduces the load and stress on legs, hips, knees, and ankles. The device’s simple form consists of a seat, frame, and shoes. To use it, a person straddles the slender frame, slips on the shoes, and puts the seat into position. Two computer-controlled motors obtain information from sensors in the shoes to determine the support needed based on the bending and stretching of the user’s knees. The assist force is directed towards the person’s center of gravity, just as with human legs, enabling the device to provide help in various movements. Weighing less than fifteen pounds, the Bodyweight Support Assist is powered by a lithium-ion battery that lasts two hours.
Bodyweight Support Assist
Bodyweight Support Assist, experimental model. Fundamental Technology Research Center, Honda R&D Co., Ltd. Japan, 1999–2010. CPU, hip angle sensors, brushless motors. Courtesy of designer
Honda is traditionally known for automobiles, but for years the company has been conducting research to develop technologies that enhance the broader theme of human mobility. The Bodyweight Support Assist is a recent prototype that assists workers who spend extended periods of time on their feet standing, climbing or descending stairs, or maintaining semi-crouched positions, such as assembly-line workers. The device may also help the elderly get around easier. It is a next-generation product for Honda, based on studies of human walking that resulted in ASIMO, the company’s humanoid robot.
The Bodyweight Support Assist, an exoskeleton for the lower body, reduces the load and stress on legs, hips, knees, and ankles. The device’s simple form consists of a seat, frame, and shoes. To use it, a person straddles the slender frame, slips on the shoes, and puts the seat into position. Two computer-controlled motors obtain information from sensors in the shoes to determine the support needed based on the bending and stretching of the user’s knees. The assist force is directed towards the person’s center of gravity, just as with human legs, enabling the device to provide help in various movements. Weighing less than fifteen pounds, the Bodyweight Support Assist is powered by a lithium-ion battery that lasts two hours.