Replicating Human-Like Walking with a One Motor

As an undegrad researcher in Dr. Michael Goldfarb’s prosthetics lab, I help design complex systems for replicating human walking. While maximum precision is needed for restoring movement to an amputee, many applications for human-like walking require less precision. In my Fall 2024 Machine Design project, I created a simplified walking machine for testing the durability of work boots.

Weighing the key design parameters (path vs force vs speed, etc), my team selected to design a linkage which follows the path of the average human step. This testing aparatus will identify where the boot might wear first in true use.

This project reinforced my dedication to rough-and-dirty prototyping before CADing in detail. I increased my proficiency in precise math-based design, SolidWorks for collaboration and manufacturing, and motor integration. You can check out my final report below.

Cover Image: X. Jin, A. Prado and S. K. Agrawal, "Retraining of Human Gait - Are Lightweight Cable-Driven Leg Exoskeleton Designs Effective?," in IEEE Transactions on Neural Systems and Rehabilitation Engineering, vol. 26, no. 4, pp. 847-855, April 2018, doi: 10.1109/TNSRE.2018.2815656.