NeuroFlex Robotics develops the world’s first intent‑based active ankle‑foot orthosis (AAFO) for people with foot drop. The device uses an EMG sensor to detect the wearer’s muscle signals and a compact motor to provide powered dorsiflexion exactly when needed, delivering a smoother, more natural gait with less effort. Its lightweight carbon‑fiber shell, swappable battery, and adjustable sensor band allow custom fit and flexible use across varying levels of muscle function.
Funding
Funding not disclosed
Founders
Product
Problem
Droppfot (foot drop) impairs dorsiflexion, forcing users to adopt a compensatory “steppage” gait that reduces stability, increases fatigue, and limits participation in daily activities. Conventional ankle‑foot orthoses (AFOs) provide static support or trigger assistance based on gait phase, but they cannot respond to the wearer’s intent, leading to unnatural movement and reduced comfort.
Solution
NeuroFlex Robotics has created the world’s first intent‑based active ankle‑foot orthosis (AAFO) that reads the user’s muscle activity via an EMG sensor and delivers powered assistance exactly when needed. The system integrates a lightweight motor, a replaceable battery pack, and a carbon‑fiber custom‑fit shell produced by orthopaedic clinics. By detecting residual muscle signals—or signals from alternative muscles when needed—the orthosis synchronizes ankle dorsiflexion with the wearer’s intended step, producing a smoother, more natural gait with less effort. The modular sensor band can be repositioned to accommodate varying levels of muscle function, and the battery can be swapped for longer outings. This approach transforms a passive support device into an active, user‑driven assistive technology.
Target Audience
The device is intended for individuals with foot drop who retain some muscle activity in the lower leg or can use alternative muscle sites, particularly active adults seeking to regain natural walking ability for daily and recreational activities.
Features
- EMG sensor array that captures real‑time muscle activation to trigger assistance
- Compact electric actuator delivering precise ankle dorsiflexion torque on demand
- Customizable carbon‑fiber orthosis shell tailored by orthopaedic clinics for optimal fit
- Swappable lithium‑ion battery pack for extended use and easy field replacement
- Adjustable sensor band allowing placement on different muscle groups for users with reduced calf activity
- Integrated control algorithm that aligns motor output with the wearer’s intent, reducing gait asymmetry