A key problem in the adoption of exoskeletons in industry is that workers are incorrectly fitting the device, leading to discomfort and suboptimal functioning of the exoskeleton. Although biomechanical modeling and design optimization strategies have tried to resolve this issue, we propose a user-centric, real-time fitting aid to guide and control the correct fitting process, which has not been achieved in practice. Inspired by previous work that uses exergame-like feedback to instruct a user, we compared augmented reality (AR)-based visual cues to guide the accurate fitting of a passive upper limb exoskeleton. We selected visual cues through a systematic literature review and evaluated their efficacy and usability for different aspects of exoskeleton fitting in a study with sixteen participants. The study outcome suggests a statistically significant preference for a semi-transparent overlay instead of a more abstract arrow-based method. Moreover, the results indicate high usability and satisfaction with our approach, improved user acceptance, and potentially enhanced fitting accuracy. These findings advance understanding of the viability of exergame-like real-time guidance as a means to increase exoskeleton acceptance and adoption in industrial settings.
Dr Sławomir Tadeja
Dr Slawomir K. Tadeja is a Postdoctoral Associate with the Department of Mechanical Engineering at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). Here, he works...