Lego exoskeleton: An educational tool to design rehabilitation device

This paper aims to develop a model capable of mimicking human hand using LEGO Mindstorms EV3 which can be used as an education tool for students. It would be interesting if students have capabilities of developing exoskeleton device according to their requirements. Using Lego as a platform can explain the concepts of robotics, mechanical design and biomedical applications in simpler and cost effective way. Detailed experimental setup along with the possibilities for development is provided in this paper. The actuation of the hand exoskeleton is through Lego pneumatics which is actuated by motor mechanism. The main advantage of this system is the limited use of Lego parts, simple mechanical structure capable of lifting objects weighing from 20g to 600g, cost effective and easy designing process. This would enable wide range of students, Lego hobbyists, and researchers on using Lego as a rehabilitation device.