Popular Mechanics - USA (2020-05)

Electronics housing [A]

contains the batteries,

power distribution board,

and main computer.

Linear linkage

actuators create hip

adduction/abduction [B]

and hip flexion/extension

[C], flexion/extension

at the knee [D], and

ankle plantar flexion/dor-

siflexion [E] to allow

for a combination

of movements in the

sagittal and frontal

planes. (See diagram

below for a detailed look

at the actuators.)

Pressure-sensing

footpads [F]

read center-of-

pressure data used

to help track phases

of the gait cycle and

provide balance

feedback to the pilot.

Supportive cuffs

secure the pilot’s legs to

device at the thigh [G]

and shin [H].

IHMC’S EXO

A

B

C

D

G

H

E

F

Amplifier

electronics

Ball-screw

transmission

Electric

motor

Exo

actuator

Joint

output

May/June 2020 33