Closing Plenary: Hugh Herr, Designing Intelligent Orthotics and Prosthetics -
Special EventsAbstract » A long-standing goal in rehabilitation science is to apply neuromechanical principles of human movement to the development of highly functional prostheses and orthoses. When well-designed and properly customized for an individual, these devices not only traverse physical limitations but also become very much a part of the wearer's physical self. Critical to this effort is the understanding of how humans interact with their own limbs, and the development of actuator technologies and control methodologies that interact with the human in manner compatible with their natural interaction. In this lecture, I present several examples of prosthethic limbs and orthotic devices designed to support comfortable and efficient use, highly precise control, and ease of use. These examples are then used to motivate design strategies for prosthetic and orthotic devices.
Bio: Hugh Herr is Associate Professor within MIT's Program of Media Arts and Sciences, and The Harvard-MIT Division of Health Sciences and Technology. His primary research objective is to apply principles of biomechanics and neural control to guide the designs of wearable robotic systems for human rehabilitation and physical augmentation. In the area of human augmentation, Professor Herr has employed cross bridge models of skeletal muscle to the design and optimization of a new class of human-powered mechanisms that amplify endurance for cyclic anaerobic activities. He has also built elastic shoes that increase metabolic economy for running, and leg exoskeletons for walking load-carrying augmentation. In the area of assistive technology, Professor Herr’s group has developed powered orthotic and prosthetic mechanisms for use as assistive interventions in the treatment of leg disabilities caused by amputation, stroke, cerebral palsy, and multiple sclerosis. Professor Herr has authored or coauthored over 60 technical publications in biomechanics and wearable robotics. He was the recipient of the 2007 Heinz Award for Technology, Economy, and Employment.