Scientists To Develop Robotic Trousers

Robotic clothing could hold the key to giving disabled and elderly Scots their independence.

Researchers from seven universities, including Strathclyde, are developing garments to enable people to move easily and unaided.

'Smart' trousers and socks are also aimed at helping to prevent falls by supporting people while they walk and to give them strength to stand up and sit down. They could replace the stair lift in the home and, ultimately, they have the potential to be an alternative for many wheelchair users.

Dr Arjan Buis, of Strathclyde's Department of Biomedical Engineering, is among the researchers. He will be leading the evaluation of biomechanics part of the project that will contribute to the control algorithms and final evaluation of the technology.

He said: "The mobility problems we are addressing take different forms. They can be found in people who need rehabilitation after breaking legs or other bones, in people with chronic conditions such as spinal cord problems or muscular dystrophy, and in frail elderly people.

"We want to help these people not only to become more mobile but to have power behind their mobility. We also want to ensure they have dignity, by being able to put on this clothing themselves and not to have to change it during the day."