About the project
Objective
- O1. Co-creation of a transformative user-centered design framework that integrates the lived experiences, preferences, and embodied interactions of older adults, paving the way for socially inclusive and empathetic SSRE designs that redefine mobility support.
- O2. Integration of biomechanical sensing, modeling, and control systems that seamlessly blend human intention, somatic feedback, and emotional cues, enabling SSREs to adapt dynamically and intuitively to the user’s physical and emotional states.
- O3. Development of human-SSRE interaction techniques through cutting-edge sensory-actuator designs, utilizing soft robotics, adaptive rhythms, and somatic alignment to create an unprecedented sense of trust, safety, and user empowerment in mobility.
- O4. Assess real-world adoption of SSREs by conducting studies that capture the full spectrum of their impact—mobility, trust, dignity, and quality of life—while providing actionable insights to drive societal integration.
Background
Exoskeletons are increasingly recognized as a potential mobility solution for older adults, aiming to support independence and health in aging populations. Studies show promising results, such as improved walking speed, endurance, and alleviation of gait issues in neurological conditions (Tricomi et al., 2024; Lakmazaheri et al., 2024; Kim et al., 2024). However, most devices are not explicitly designed for older adults or real-world settings, often tested on young, able-bodied males, overlooking motor decline and the complexities of aging user interactions. Few studies explore older adults’ experiences with exoskeletons in daily life (Shore et al., 2018, 2020), and participation in design or long-term evaluations is rare (Young et al., 2022). Trust, comfort, and safety are critical factors for acceptability but remain underexplored in user-centered design (Peng et al., 2022).
Theoretical frameworks highlight that trust in autonomous systems stems from sensory and embodied interactions (Pink, 2021), while emerging approaches, such as soma design have the capacity to place sustained focus on the sensory, embodied and experiential aspects of interaction with technology (Höök 2018). Soma design approaches as applied to autonomous systems can enhance feelings of trust and safety in other domains, such as in semi-autonomous vehicles (Balaam et al., 2024). However, the mechatronic systems essential for replicating nuanced sensory interactions are underdeveloped.
Though advancements in materials, human-in-the-loop control, and sensor technology provide insights into user movement and needs (Küçüktabak et al., 2023), real-world applications often fail to achieve the real-time adaptability required for intuitive use. This represents a significant limitation in achieving devices that “feel right” and foster trust in users. In addition, the capability to measure and predict human motion and intention has not yet been fully translated into real-world applications. While simulations of optimal external assistance can estimate user responses to some degree, the complexity of human movement and interaction limits their accuracy. Thus, current systems lack synchronization, crucial for aligning user actions with device responses (Wilkenfeld et al., 2023). Addressing these gaps is key to fostering trust, comfort, and usability in exoskeleton design and achieving widespread adoption.
Cross-disciplinary collaboration
This project brings together a Professor in Biomechanics, alongside a Professor in Interaction Design and an Assistant Professor in Mechatronics, representing the KTH school of Engineering Science, the KTH School of Electrical Engineering and Computing Science and the KTH School of Industrial Engineering and Management. This cross disciplinary expertise will allow us to develop new exoskeleton interaction technologies will provide new ways for users and exoskeletons to cooperate, improving user experiences of safety, efficiency, and pleasure of moving with these assitive devices. By placing older adults at the centre of design and development processes towards exoskeleton we expect to redefine mobility for aging adults by combining physical functionality with psychological and emotional care.
