Cam-actuated test fixture to simulate exoskeleton footplate loading during a gait cycle.
Biomotum, Inc. seeks to redefine mobility rehabilitation with the use of the Biomotum SPARK, a robotic exoskeleton that serves to assist and restore walking function. During my internship with Biomotum, I designed and modeled a cam-actuated test-fixture to simulate the forces to the force sensitive resistor in the SPARK footplate during a typical gait cycle. The design of the test fixture accommodates varied design criteria and use cases, including an adjustable, angled force plate to tease out normal and shear forces, an easily-interchangeable spring in the actuator to simulate different user weights, and interchangeable cam to study different gait patterns. The test fixture was designed with mostly stock parts, aiding replicability and maintenance.

Cross-section of Gait Cycle Simulator end effector.

SOLIDWORKS-simulated force generated using Gait Cycle Simulator CAD model.

Gait Cycle Simulator CAD model.