Toward Human Centered Generative Design: Model-based Assistive Device Design for a Simple Movement
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Date
2023-12
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The Ohio State University
Abstract
Generative design (GD) is becoming a common method of product design, but little research has been applied directly to the problem of ergonomics and biomechanics in generative design (Urquhart et al., 2017). Recent advances in human factors engineering such as digital human modeling as well as predictive optimizations (Handford and Srinivasan, 2017) opens new frontiers for GD-based human centered design (Demirel, 2023). Current work in this research-area of generative design has not explored biomechanics-focused devices such as exoskeletons or similar assistive devices. Our overall goal is to explore possible methods of using generative design in conjunction with digital human modeling to design devices and tools that improve the work efficiency between the user and the tool. Specifically, in this study, we focused on building the framework for iterative exoskeleton component design for a squatting motion.
The original goal was to develop a larger scale generative design algorithm that could build multi member devices based on various input constraint and requirements, automatically evaluating multiple topological and parametric variations of the device. However, this project scope was simplified due to time constraints. Here, we considered and optimized a single-member single-joint assistive device within a simulation framework built in MATLAB's Simscape, laying the foundation for future work involving more complex topologies.
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Keywords
generative design, human centered design, biomechanics, iterative design, assistive device, exoskeleton, digital human modeling