Influence of the Physical Interface on the Quality of Human–Exoskeleton Interaction

Despite exoskeletons becoming widespread tools in industrial applications, the impact of design human–exoskeleton physical interfaces has received little attention. This study aims at thoroughly quantifying influence different on subjective and objective biomechanical parameters. To this aim, 18 participants performed elbow flexion/extension movements while wearing an active exoskeleton with three interfaces: a strap without any degree freedom, thermoformed orthosis one (translation) degrees freedom (translation rotations). Interaction efforts, kinematic parameters, electromyographic activities, feelings were collected examined during experiment. Results showed that increasing interaction area is necessary to improve quality level. The addition passive allows significant improvements both measurements. Outcomes may provide fundamental insights select when designing future exoskeletons.