A 3D-printed exoskeleton knee brace prototype was developed for independent lower limb resistance training, with results indicating high user satisfaction regarding lightweight design and perceived safety, and participants perceiving appropriate resistance for targeting quadriceps and hamstring muscle groups.
Key Findings
Methods
A low-cost 3D-printed exoskeleton knee brace (KB) prototype was successfully developed targeting knee extensors and flexors for independent resistance training.
The KB was designed to provide comfort, safety, and a mix of lightweight and strength.
The design targeted rehabilitation patients such as those who have had a stroke, neuromuscular conditions, or surgery recovery.
The prototype addressed restricted accessibility for people unable to undertake lower limb resistance exercise independently.
The brace was designed to enable independent use without external equipment or assistance.
Methods
Kinematic analysis was used to evaluate the forces generated by resistance bands incorporated into the knee brace design.
Kinematic analysis was applied to quantify resistance band forces.
Finite element analysis (FEA) simulation was conducted to ensure structural integrity of the design.
These analyses were used to validate the mechanical performance of the prototype prior to user testing.
Results
Results indicated high user satisfaction with the knee brace, specifically regarding its lightweight design and perceived safety.
Participants reported high satisfaction specifically concerning the KB's lightweight design.
Perceived safety was a key dimension of user satisfaction.
Participants perceived that the brace provided appropriate resistance for targeting the quadriceps and hamstring muscle groups during knee extension and flexion exercises.
Results
Participants identified specific design improvements needed for the knee brace prototype.
Recommended improvements included adjustments to the strap design.
Participants also recommended adjustments to the length of the brace.
These recommendations indicate areas where the prototype requires further refinement before broader use.
Conclusions
The study concludes that the knee brace is a suitable method for independent resistance training and identifies a gap for future research in rehabilitation populations.
The authors suggest KBs are 'a suitable method for independent resistance training.'
Future research should focus on evaluating effectiveness in rehabilitation patients who are unable to perform current lower limb activities.
The study highlights that many typical exercises rely on external equipment or assistance, limiting options for rehabilitation patients.
What This Means
This research suggests that a custom-designed, 3D-printed knee brace can allow people to perform leg-strengthening exercises on their own, without needing gym equipment or another person to help them. The brace uses resistance bands to create the opposing force needed to work the thigh muscles (quadriceps and hamstrings) during straightening and bending of the knee. The researchers used computer modeling to check the forces involved and to confirm the brace would be strong enough to use safely before testing it with participants.
People who tried the prototype reported being satisfied with how light it felt and said they felt safe using it. They also felt it provided enough resistance to actually work the target muscle groups. However, users suggested that the straps and the overall length of the brace needed to be adjusted, indicating the design still needs refinement before it is ready for widespread use.
This research matters because many people recovering from strokes, surgeries, or neuromuscular conditions struggle to do standard leg-strengthening exercises independently. This research suggests that a relatively low-cost, 3D-printed device could eventually help these individuals exercise on their own, potentially improving rehabilitation outcomes. The authors note that future studies should test the brace specifically in rehabilitation patient populations to measure whether it actually improves their strength and function.
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Morad S, Pangilinan H. (2026). The development of a 3d-printed exoskeleton knee brace for independent resistance training.. Biomedical physics & engineering express. https://doi.org/10.1088/2057-1976/ae9c47