PERCHING ASSIST DEVICE: A WEARABLE EXOSKELETON FOR PROLONGED STANDING

Abstract

Prolonged standing is associated with an increased risk of developing varicose veins due to chronic venous insufficiency. Given the prevalence of occupations- requiring extended periods of standing, there is a need for innovative solutions to mitigate these health risks. This abstract presents a novel, ergonomic seating device designed to alleviate discomfort and fatigue associated with prolonged standing. The device is configured to mimic the natural posture of the human body when seated, providing support and stability without the need for a traditional chair. Constructed primarily from acrylic plastic and fiberglass, the device is adjustable and capable of supporting up to 150 kg. By offering a convenient and adaptable seating solution, this device aims to benefit a wide range of individuals, including those in physically demanding occupations, pregnant women, and individuals with mobility limitations.

Specification

While intermittent standing can offer certain health benefits, prolonged standing can also be detrimental. Conversely, excessive sedentary behaviour is strongly linked to a host of chronic diseases including hypertension, type 2 diabetes, certain cancers, and depression (Park et al. 2020). This is primarily due to its negative impact on metabolic rate. Despite growing awareness of these health risks, workplace ergonomics often prioritize productivity over employee well-being. Although many workplaces.incorporate ergonomic design elements, they frequently fail to address the issue of prolonged static postures, a primary contributor to worker
fatigue.
Despite advancements in technology, contemporary workstations often lack seating options that adequately address user comfort and well-being. Research has consistently demonstrated that sloping or kneeling chairs effectively maintain the natural lumbar curvature and pelvic tilt compared to traditional flat chairs, thereby reducing tissue strain and mitigating lower back pain (Park and Kim 2022). Consequently, these findings underscore the potential benefits of flexible, wearable seating solutions in enhancing comfort and reducing musculoskeletal discomfort during prolonged work periods.
The global aging population is accompanied by a rising prevalence of physical frailty, posing significant socioeconomic challenges. Enhancing lower limb function in elderly and dependent individuals has become a critical focus area. Exoskeletons emerge as promising assistive technologies with the potential to augment mobility, reduce the need for intensive therapy, and potentially lower healthcare costs (Vallee 2024). To optimize exoskeleton design, identifying the fundamental principles of human motor adaptation and the factors influencing adaptation rates to powered assistance is paramount.
Exoskeletons have witnessed significant advancements and are now employed in various sectors such as military, medical, and disaster response. Leg length inequality (LLI), or anisomelia, refers to a bilateral asymmetry in lower limb length. During locomotion, lower limb joint stresses are exacerbated by muscular effort for segmental control, inertial forces generated by moving segments, and ground reaction forces (Seeley et al. 2010).
Optimal ankle angle is achieved when the human body assumes a neutral standing posture with the hip vertically aligned over the ankle and the tibia and femur approximately equal in length. While the lower limb commonly refers to the entire leg, including the foot, thigh, and hip, anatomical terminology specifically designates the region^from the knee to the


ankle as the leg. Inspired by the concept of a chairless chair, this research aims to develop a lower body exoskeleton, or perching device, designed to provide temporary seated support without hindering mobility. Growing evidence underscores the detrimental health effects of prolonged sedentary behaviour, including increased risks of diabetes and cancer (Dempsey et al. 2020). By enabling users to maintain a standing posture while intermittently experiencing the benefits of seated rest, this device seeks to improve posture, reduce leg muscle fatigue, and offer a comfortable alternative to traditional chairs.
A novel control strategy is proposed for targeted lower limb muscle exercise utilizing a passive force feedback exoskeleton. This approach integrates a dynamic model encompassing both the musculoskeletal system and hydraulic actuators (Su et al. 2023). The exoskeleton is designed to independently facilitate the exercise of specific muscle groups without restricting the user's range of motion. Employing a principle akin to an inverted four-bar linkage, the device resists knee flexion, effectively providing seated support without a chair or backrest.
Secured with Velcro straps, the exoskeleton prioritizes simplicity and affordability, targeting a broad user base including workers and individuals recovering from leg injuries.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Exoskeletons are wearable structures that augment human capabilities. They are designed to enhance strength, endurance, and mobility, particularly in tasks that are physically demanding or require repetitive movements. These devices have found applications in various fields, including healthcare, and military operations. In healthcare, exoskeletons are used to assist individuals with disabilities, such as paralysis or stroke, to regain mobility and improve their quality of life. They can also aid in rehabilitation by providing targeted support and guidance during physical therapy sessions. Thus, features and advantages of the present disclosure will become more apparent from the following detailed description of exemplary embodiments thereof taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which an upper semi-cylinder (l), a lower semi-cylinder (2), high pressure pump (3), thigh Velcro-straps (4), calf Velcro straps (5).

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
The Perching Assist Device is a wearable exoskeleton designed to provide support for individuals who need to stand for prolonged periods. This innovative device is particularly beneficial for workers in industries where long hours of standing can lead to fatigue and discomfort. The exoskeleton is engineered to redistribute the user's body weight, reducing the strain on muscles and joints.
The device features a lightweight frame made of high-strength materials, ensuring durability without compromising mobility. It is equipped with adjustable support structures that contour to the wearer's legs and lower back, providing customizable support. The perching mechanism allows users to transition seamlessly from standing to a semi-seated position, alleviating pressure on the lower body while maintaining an upright posture.
Designed for ease of use, the Perching Assist Device can be worn over regular clothing and is adjustable to fit a wide range of body types, making it a versatile solution for prolonged
standing.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The modem workplace, characterized by prolonged periods of sitting or standing, has significant implications for human health. Excessive sedentary behaviour is linked to a range of chronic diseases, including diabetes, heart disease, and certain cancers. Conversely, while intermittent standing offers some benefits, extended periods on one's feet can also lead to health issues. Despite growing awareness, workplace ergonomics often prioritize productivity over employee well-being, with insufficient focus on addressing the challenges of static postures.
Innovative seating solutions have emerged to combat these issues. Sloping or kneeling chairs, for instance, offer improved ergonomic support compared to traditional chairs. However, the ultimate goal is to create flexible, wearable seating options that can seamlessly integrate into
daily life.
Exoskeletons represent a promising avenue for addressing both sedentary lifestyles and mobility challenges. These devices have the potential to enhance lower limb function, reduce the need for intensive therapy, and improve overall quality of life, particularly for the elderly and those with physical impairments. By combining engineering principles with neuroscience, researchers are developing exoskeletons that can adapt to human movement and provide tailored support. One specific application of exoskeleton technology is the development of a perching device. Designed to provide temporary seated support without hindering mobility, this device aims to mitigate the negative effects of prolonged standing. By offering a comfortable and flexible seating option, it can help improve posture, reduce leg fatigue, and enhance overall
well-being.
To optimize exoskeleton performance, researchers are exploring various control methods and designs. A passive force feedback exoskeleton, for example, can be used to target specific muscle groups for exercise. By combining simplicity with affordability, these devices can be made accessible to a wide range of users, including workers and individuals recovering from injuries. In conclusion, the convergence of ergonomics, exoskeleton technology, and human physiology offers promising solutions to the health challenges posed by modem lifestyles. By developing innovative and accessible devices, researchers can help create healthier and more productive work environments while improving the quality of life for people of all ages and abilities.

A wearable exoskeleton device for assisting prolonged standing, comprising a lightweight frame configured to be worn on the lower body, adjustable support structures designed to contour the wearer's legs and lower back, a perching mechanism allowing the user to transition between standing and a semi-seated position.
Claim 2: The wearable exoskeleton device of claim 1, wherein the lightweight frame and Velcro straps are constructed from high-strength materials to ensure durability and reduce
overall weight.
Claim 3: The wearable exoskeleton device of claim 1, wherein the perching mechanism is designed to reduce pressure on the user's lower body while maintaining an upright posture.
Claim 4: The wearable exoskeleton device of claim 1, wherein the perching mechanism includes a lockable hinge or pivot system that allows for secure positioning in a semi-seated
stance.
Claim 5: The wearable exoskeleton device of claim 1, further comprising a user interface for controlling the degree of support and transitioning between standing and perching modes.

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