The proposed project aims to design and develop wearable and flexible robotic devices for the upper and lower limbs, using smart materials that integrate both actuation and sensing capabilities. Compared to traditional rigid exoskeletons in the field of robotics and assistive technology, these wearable devices offer greater comfort, lightness and adaptability to the natural movements of the human body.
October 2024 – February 2025
The SMART4SWing project – SMART materials-based solutions for Soft Wearable robots has completed the activities of WP1 (analysis of clinical requirements and product specifications) and WP2 (optimisation of shape memory alloys, SMA) on schedule. In WP1 (Deliverable D1.1-D1.3), MOVEO analysed biomechanical parameters and torque, ROM, stability, comfort and ergonomics requirements for exoskeletons intended for the elderly population, while 2SMArtEST conducted a comparative analysis of existing solutions and implemented setups for the thermo-mechanical characterisation of SMA wires and springs. In WP2 (Deliverable D2.1-D2.2), electro-thermo-mechanical tests were performed on filaments of different diameters, pre-strain and thermo-mechanical training cycles, series-parallel modelling to reduce consumption, selection of optimal springs and design of attachment terminals. WP3 is 60% complete with the development of biomechanical numerical models (AnyBody, Comsol) to simulate ROM and muscle forces, the thermoelectric/thermomechanical behaviour of actuators and to predict recoverable deformations. WP5 is 50% complete, with preliminary design of an exoskeletal belt for the lower limb, fabric-actuator interfaces in Cordura and Airshell, actuator housings and thermal management. Milestones M1-M2 have been completed, while the others are ongoing. The activities were carried out without any critical issues and with a transparent procurement procedure (public tender 2SM-12-2024, awarded to Almas Informatica Srls). The project is proceeding in line with the schedule and WP3 and WP5 are expected to be completed in the coming months.