Pilot Study on the Needs of Prospective Exoskeleton Users with Impaired Mobility

Abstract

Patients with paraplegia and spinal cord injuries stand to benefit greatly from powered exoskeletons physically, socially, and psychologically. Yet, most powered exoskeletons are limited to usage in rehabilitation clinics or academic facilities. To overcome the challenge of commercialization it is necessary to better understand the needs of potential exoskeleton users. A customer needs survey was conducted among 14 participants with mobility disorders. The data collected was analyzed using a House of Quality. The results emphasized a need to direct research towards designing exoskeletons that can balance without crutches and impose minimal interaction forces upon the user. While doing so, researchers should also pay keen attention to the cost of the exoskeleton. © 2019 IEEE.