Dynamic Exoskeleton : Mechanical Design of a Human Exoskeleton to Enhance Maximum Dynamic Performance

An exoskeleton was designed with the primary goal of enhancing the maximum dynamic capability of a human, thus allowing the user to run faster, jump higher, or traverse challenging terrain. This paper presents the mechanical design of an alpha prototype with a focus on increasing the maximum vertical jump height of a human. High torque motors were constrained to the body with two degrees of freedom using carbon fiber, aluminum, and other lightweight materials. The exoskeleton actuates the hip joint by comfortably providing force to three points on the body. Human testing showed a maximum increase in jump height of 13%. Thesis Supervisor: Sangbae Kim Tide: Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering