Improving exoskeletons for better movement on uneven surfaces
Official title: Terrain Imaging and Adaptive Control of Exoskeletons
Funded at Innovative Design Labs, INC. · NIH-10455578 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on making special robotic suits, called exoskeletons, better and safer for people recovering from spinal cord injuries or strokes, so they can walk more easily on things like stairs and uneven ground, helping them regain their independence during recovery.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 2 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Innovative Design Labs, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Minneapolis, United States) |
| Project start | July 15, 2021 |
| Project end | June 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2022 |
| Award (this year) | $882,711 |
| NIH project number | 5R44HD105512-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10455578 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with spinal cord injuries or those recovering from strokes who require assistance with mobility.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with severe mobility limitations who cannot use exoskeletons or those with conditions not related to motor function may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing the functionality and safety of medical exoskeletons by integrating advanced 3D imaging and adaptive control systems. The goal is to enable these devices to navigate uneven terrains, such as slopes and stairs, which is crucial for patients recovering from spinal cord injuries or strokes. By combining imaging data with the exoskeleton's movement information, the system aims to provide real-time feedback that helps adjust balance and gait, making rehabilitation more effective and accessible. Patients using these exoskeletons will benefit from improved mobility and independence during their recovery process.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve the mobility and rehabilitation outcomes for patients with motor impairments.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in using exoskeletons for rehabilitation, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Innovative Design Labs, INC.
Minneapolis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Becker, Adam — Innovative Design Labs, INC.
- Study coordinator: Becker, Adam
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.