Healthcare Biorobotics Lab research in wearable robotics and exoskeletons at the University of Oxford

We carry out research in wearable robotics and exoskeletons, with a particular emphasis on rehabilitation and sports safety. Our work bridges the gap between engineering innovation, medical rehabilitation, and the biomechanics of movement, aiming to create intelligent devices that seamlessly integrate with the user's body to enhance physical abilities, aid in recovery, and prevent injuries. Current research projects include:

1. Guiding hand rehabilitation using soft robotic gloves via computer vision
2. Wearable knee exoskeletons for ACL injury prevention
3. Origami-inspired personal protection equipment

The wrist plays a pivotal role in facilitating motion dexterity and hand functions. Wrist orthoses, from passive braces to active exoskeletons, provide an effective solution for the assistance and rehabilitation of motor abilities. We propose a novel wrist orthosis design inspired by the Kresling origami. The design can be adapted to accommodate various individual shape parameters, which benefits from the topological variations and intrinsic compliance of origami. Heat-sealable fabrics are used to replicate the non-rigid nature of the Kresling origami. The work presents a promising foundation for the development of personalised wrist orthoses.