The client for this project, Dr. Zachary Lerner, is the lead researcher and developer in the Biomechatronics Lab at NAU. "The Biomechatronics Lab...seeks to restore neuromuscular function and augment mobility through the design, control, and testing of wearable robotic exoskeletons. We expand human ability."
His extensive research is currently being demonstrated through his robotic hip ankle exoskeleton devices. The robotic arm exoskeleton is part of a new branch of research in his lab and will be the one of the first upper body exoskeletons in his lower body focused designs.
To learn more about Dr. Lerners research click on the banner underneath his profile to be directed to his lab's website.
The Robotic Arm Exoskeleton team has been tasked by Dr. Lerner to design and improve upon the Myo shirt, an exo-suit created by ETH Zurich (pictured left). The original project goal was for the team to engineer an upper-body exoskeleton that would assist the user in performing more pull-ups compared to their unassisted number. As the team entered into the Spring semester, the project goal was changed where the team is now focusing on designing a shoulder exoskeleton with the ability to increase the timed ability for a user to hold a weight in front of them. The initial customer requirements have been updated and the table below accurately reflects the final customer and engineering requirements.
The sponsor for the project is W.L. Gore with an allotted budget of $3,750.
The success of this project will be evaluated against the design requirements specified below.
