AI-Powered Exoskeleton Control for Personalized Mobility Assistance and Rehabilitation

Xianlian Alex Zhou, PhD
New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT)

Abstract:
Assistive exoskeletons are increasingly recognized for their potential to enhance gait in individuals with mobility disorders, including stroke, spinal cord injury, and multiple sclerosis. However, the development of exoskeleton systems remains a challenging, time-intensive, and costly process that typically involves prototyping, extensive human testing, and iterative design refinement. Our research leverages deep reinforcement learning (RL) to develop robust controllers for lower limb exoskeletons (LLEs). Initially, we will demonstrate our approach using a full-scale lower extremity rehabilitation exoskeleton. Subsequently, this method will be adapted for a lightweight hip exoskeleton designed to assist users during walking, running, and stair climbing. Our AI-driven simulation-based methodology significantly accelerates the development of exoskeleton controllers by eliminating the need for extensive human-involved experiments. This research establishes a foundation for future advancements in developing and refining personalized, precise exoskeleton controllers, ultimately aiming to improve mobility and quality of life for individuals with diverse mobility disorders.
 

Biography:
Dr. Zhou is an Associate Professor of Biomedical Engineering at the New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT) and the Director of the BioDynamics Lab. He earned his Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Iowa, following his B.S. and M.S. degrees from Shanghai Jiao Tong University. Before joining NJIT, Dr. Zhou was a Principal Research Scientist at CFD Research Corporation in Huntsville, Alabama, where he led the Human Performance and Biodynamics group. At CFD Research, he served as Principal Investigator (PI) or Co-PI on more than 10 DoD-sponsored projects focused on warfighter performance and injury protection. At NJIT, Dr. Zhou’s current research focuses on biomechanics, wearable robotics, and personalized medicine. His recent work has been primarily supported by the NIDILRR (National Institute on Disability, Independent Living and Rehabilitation Research), NJ Health Foundation, U.S. Army, the DoD DHA (Defense Health Agency), and the CDC/NIOSH (National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health).