Development of clothing-type platforms considering pressure and user satisfaction: focusing on industrial workers who tend to lift loads

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to develop a clothing-type platform of wearable robots for industrial workers who usually lift loads to prevent accidents and increase their work efficiency. First, fabrics were selected through test analyses of the elongation recovery rate and tensile strength. Second, a suit-type platform embedded with electrostatic clutch band actuators was prototyped and measured the friction force, and a washing dimension change rate of the test with the platform was conducted. Third, clothing pressures were measured after the developed prototype was worn, using an air injection sensor system at nine points and with four motions. Next, subjective clothing pressure and satisfaction surveys were conducted. The study produced four major results: (a) the selected fabrics and the prototype with the electrostatic clutch actuator met the performance requirements; (b) the greatest clothing pressure occurred at the back, back waist, and back knee, where actuators were connected, and the clothing pressure was sufficient for positional stability; (c) the subjective pressure was different in each section from the actual clothing pressure measurement; and (d) participants were satisfied with the developed prototypes, and they showed willingness to purchase them. The results can help developers of wearable robots increase comfort and user satisfaction.

Explorations of clothing-typed wearable platforms: satisfaction evaluations and displacement measurements

“…, 2023). When a current flows through the electrostatic clutch, the layers of the actuator stick together (Kim et al. , 2023).…”

“…An electrostatic clutch actuator composed of three layersdielectric, conductive and protective (Figure 2)was placed on the arm sleeves of the clothing prototype. The actuator was flexible, lightweight and thin to ensure comfort and was connected to 100% rubber bands to generate a recovery force after stretching (Kim et al, 2023). When a current flows through the electrostatic clutch, the layers of the actuator stick together (Kim et al, 2023).…”

“…The actuator was flexible, lightweight and thin to ensure comfort and was connected to 100% rubber bands to generate a recovery force after stretching (Kim et al, 2023). When a current flows through the electrostatic clutch, the layers of the actuator stick together (Kim et al, 2023). For example, when the wearer bends their arms to pick up objects from the floor, the actuator turns off, allowing the rubber band connectors and actuators to stretch.…”

Design guidelines for movement-assistive clothing based on a comprehensive understanding of older adults’ needs and preferences

“…Exoskeleton robots composed of heavy and rigid materials are unsuitable for daily wear, causing strain, unnatural movements, and potential injuries over time. Therefore, soft wearable robots have been developed that offer potential benefits such as comfort owing to their light weight, flexibility, and ease of use [ 5 , 6 ].…”

“…Early design phases should emphasize the essential usage requirements. In addition, most existing wearable suit designs do not consider the needs and desires of older adults [5][6][7]. A wearable suit design would also need to cater to the movement assistance needs of older adults and align them with the user needs and wants.…”