Article

A new overground body-weight support system called ZeroG has been developed that
allows patients with severe gait impairments to practice gait and balance
activities in a safe, controlled manner. The unloading system is capable of
providing up to 300 lb of static support and 150 lb of dynamic (or constant
force) support using a custom-series elastic actuator. The unloading system is
mounted to a driven trolley, which rides along an overhead rail. We evaluated the
performance of ZeroG's unloading system, as well as the trolley tracking system,
using benchtop and human-subject testing. Average root-mean-square and peak
errors in unloading were 2.2 and 7.2 percent, respectively, over the range of
forces tested while trolley tracking errors were less than 3 degrees, indicating
the system was able to maintain its position above the subject. We believe
training with ZeroG will allow patients to practice activities that are critical
to achieving functional independence at home and in the community.

Langue : ANGLAIS