Recent advances in wearable exoskeletons for human strength augmentation

Abstract

AbstractThe decline in muscular strength and control due to age or stroke-related side-effect has afflicted many individuals with neuromotor disorders because it affects essential motor functions to perform everyday activities and restrains their functional independence. In this regard, a myriad of wearable exoskeletons and functional components have been developed to deliver mechanical force for assisting the movements of different human body parts. However, many of the reported wearable exoskeletons suffer from several critical drawbacks that limit functional usage and practicality despite the significant technological advance of general wearable exoskeletons. Here, this review offers a comprehensive summary of the recent advances of wearable exoskeletons and their constituting functional components. In addition, we discuss the essential challenges that need to be tackled to enhance the functional practicality of the next-generation wearable exoskeletons in assisting the strength and control of individuals with neuromotor disorders.