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RESEARCH TOPIC

Orthotics, prosthetics and exoskeletons

Body-supporting and body-replacing

Within Mobilab & Care, our research encompasses:

  • Orthoses (body-supporting devices, such as braces)
  • Exoskeletons (motorised or non-motorised body-supporting devices)
  • Prosthetics (body-replacing devices) 

In this context, we focus on exo-prosthetics, which are prosthetic devices capable of replacing entire body parts, such as lower limb prostheses.

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Evidence-based approach

We work evidence-based and aim to increase knowledge about the design and fabrication of these assistive devices. We achieve this through:

  • Measuring, validatig, and characterising the biomechanical performance of existing devices, employing techniques such as motion analysis and motion simulations.
  • Assessing the mechanical properties of the devices themselves. This is accomplished through mechanical simulations (such as finite element analyses) and mechanical test rigs. For instance, we employ setups for ankle-foot orthoses and a robotic gait simulator.
  • Integrating the above elements to optimize the interaction between the user wearing the device and the device itself.
  • Enabling new developments, such as additive manufacturing (more precisely referred to as 3D printing). This expedites the development of new prototypes, including an ankle exoskeleton (actuated ankle-foot orthosis) and an elbow exoskeleton.
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Projects

How can we assist you?

Do you want to test your assistive device? 
Would you like to use our motion lab?
Interested in having tests set up by us?

Get in touch
PAFO MOTION

Our researchers

Programme coordinator

Veerle Creylman

For all your questions about the programme.

veerle.creylman@thomasmore.be +32 14 74 10 70
Researcher

Kris Cuppens

Draws energy from processing, analysing and presenting data. Always in the mood for a board game.

Researcher

Tom Saey

Passionate about automation of personalised 3D design, 3D scanning and 3D printing in healthcare applications.

Researcher

Inge Van den Herrewegen

Forever on the path to essence and truth. Inspires at the bridge between theory and practice, science and connection.

Researcher

Roy Sevit

Passionate about using technology that supports humans and all their discomforts, creative and out-of-the-box!

Researcher

Mario Broeckx

Researcher fascinated by technology, health and the power of breathing. Passionate cyclist and "Climber for Life".

Researcher

Luiza Muraru

Curious about (bio)mechanical assessment of orthotics and prosthetics. Engaged in researching and implementing tailored and innovative solutions within orthopaedic technologies