This Phase I SBIR develops and evaluates a prototype for a novel, energy storing and returning dynamic lower-limb exoskeleton (called PlayGait) aimed to improve walking in children with neuromuscular disorders, such as cerebral palsy, cervical spine injury, and spina bifida. Project objectives include (1) designing and constructing the PlayGait prototype that includes a purely mechanical gait energy storage and return (ESR) system and integrates off-the-shelf hip, knee, and ankle orthosis components to create a dynamic exoskeleton. The ESR system provides tunable energy storage for different users and enables appropriate timing of the energy return during walking; and (2) evaluating PlayGait using focus groups with stakeholders (i.e., children, parents, and clinicians) throughout device development, bench testing of mechanical mechanisms, and conducting a clinical trial to assess PlayGaits impact on users activity levels in the community. Project outcomes and products include (1) a functional exoskeleton, (2) stakeholder feedback, and demonstrated increases in (3) step cadence and (4) endurance when using PlayGait during a clinical trial.
