Repawse
Pet Power Assistive Exoskeleton for Zhejiang University
This canine rehabilitation exoskeleton utilizes surface electromyography signals to support dogs with hindlimb impairments. By collecting muscle activity from an unaffected forelimb, the system predicts gait cycles and activates hindlimb actuators in real time, enabling coordinated and natural walking. The device features 3D printed, custom molded components that enhance comfort, fit, and biomechanical alignment. Combining intelligent motion control with pet centered ergonomic design, it offers a humane and effective mobility solution for disabled animals.
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Repawse by Zhou Leijing
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Pet Power Assistive Exoskeleton by Zhou Leijing
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Zhou Leijing Repawse
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Zhou Leijing Pet Power Assistive Exoskeleton
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Unique Properties
In response to the rehabilitation needs of disabled pets, we have developed a canine rehabilitation exoskeleton based on surface electromyographic (sEMG) control. By collecting sEMG signals from the healthy forelimb, the system drives the hindlimb actuators in real time to synchronise gait. Combined with 3D printing for custom design, it provides precise movement assistance for disabled dogs, embodying the technological protection of animal life dignity.
Tags
Pet Rehabilitation, Animal Welfare, Exoskeleton, sEMG Signal, Active Control, 3D-Printing, Customized Design, Assistive Mobility
Production Technology
The exoskeleton is produced through advanced 3D printing technology allowing individual customization based on precise body scans. Lightweight, durable materials, including soft memory foam lining, aluminum alloy for structural parts, and anti-slip rubber soles, ensure strength, comfort, and safety in daily use.
Design Challenge
The primary challenge was accurately interpreting animal intention through muscle signals, with few existing precedents or standards. Historically, disabled pets faced limited and uncomfortable assistive solutions. Technologically, creating lightweight yet robust actuators and ensuring comfort required extensive material research, innovative mechanical design, and iterative prototyping with real pets.
Project Duration
The project started in 2023 in Hangzhou and finished in March 2025 in Hangzhou.
Operation Flow
When the dog walks, sensors detect muscle signals (sEMG) from the healthy forelimb. These signals are processed to predict the movement intention of the impaired hindlimb, triggering linear actuators in real time. This active, intuitive assistance ensures natural movement, aiding rehabilitation efficiently.
Research
This project originated from a news report on prosthetic limbs for disabled pets, highlighting the pros and cons of current solutions. Inspired, we explored transferring active-control exoskeleton technology—originally developed for stroke patients—to veterinary rehabilitation. Through extensive field research, EMG data collection from animals, iterative predictive modeling, and mechanical prototyping, we successfully created an intelligent, active-assist exoskeleton for pets.
Inspiration
The inspiration for this project originated from a news report highlighting customized prosthetics for disabled pets, exposing significant limitations in current solutions. Coupled with my personal experience of caring for my own dog after its hindlimb injury, I recognized the broader societal need to extend humane, intelligent rehabilitation technology from human healthcare into pet care, ultimately enhancing animal welfare.
Project Overview
Repawse Pet Power Assistive Exoskeleton has been a Silver winner in the Pet Care, Toys, Supplies and Products for Animals Design award category in the year 2024 organized by the prestigious A' Design Award & Competition. The Silver A' Design Award celebrates top-tier designs that embody excellence and innovation. This award acknowledges creations that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also highly functional, reflecting the designer's deep understanding and skill. Silver A' Design Award recipients are recognized for their contribution to raising industry standards and advancing the practice of design. Their work often incorporates original innovations and elicits a strong emotional response, making a notable impact on the improvement of everyday life.
Image Credits
For design images and photos please credit Zhou Leijing.
Silver Recognition
Zhou Leijing was recognized with the coveted Silver A' Design Award in 2025, a testament to excellence of their work Repawse Pet Power Assistive Exoskeleton.
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