Developing a wearable soft robot for assisted motion and falls prevention

Assistive technologies have immense unexploited potential to help aging population to remain mobile and independent for longer. This project aims at developing a novel wearable soft lower-limb robot for aging population. As part of this project, various options for robot structure, sensory system, control system and actuation mechanism will be explored and the most fit combination for the purpose will be designed and developed in the Human-Environment Advanced Dynamics (HEAD) laboratory of the University of Bath. The emphasis is primarily on the electromechanical design of the robot. The developed robotic system then will be tested using different control schemes to identify the design strengths and shortcomings and to evaluate its effects on the users gait, balance and agility.

The PhD candidate will be able to use the state-of-the-art experimental and technical facilities of the HED laboratory of the University of Bath including optical and LIDAR-based movement/environment monitoring systems, optical motion capture, instrumented treadmill, wearable inertial measurement units, and EMG, EEG and ECG monitoring systems, etc. The equipment and technician time necessary for the development of the robot will be available to the candidate to develop the system.

The successful applicant will ideally have graduated (or be due to graduate) with an undergraduate Masters first class degree and/or MSc distinction (or overseas equivalent). The successful candidate ideally (but not essential) has robotic/biomechatronic/mechanical engineering background and is familiar with mechanical design, control systems and human gait. Any English language requirements must be met at the deadline for applications.

Informal enquiries should be directed to Dr Erfan Shahabpoor Ardakani ([Email Address Removed])

Formal applications should be made via the University of Bath’s online application form for a PhD in Architecture & Civil Engineering. Please ensure that you state the full project title and lead supervisor name on the application form.

https://samis.bath.ac.uk/urd/sits.urd/run/siw_ipp_lgn.login?process=siw_ipp_app&code1=RDUAR-FP01&code2=0013

A full application must be submitted by the application deadline, including all supporting documents, to enable review.

More information about applying for a PhD at Bath may be found here:
http://www.bath.ac.uk/guides/how-to-apply-for-doctoral-study/

Anticipated start date: 30 September 2019