Leijing Zhou · CLIENT: Zhejiang University
Repawse is a rehabilitation exoskeleton designed for dogs with hindlimb impairment. Surface electromyography sensors read muscle signals from a healthy forelimb, and a microcontroller uses these signals to predict movement intention. Linear actuators then move the hindlimb support in real time, so walking stays coordinated and natural. The frame is made of aluminum alloy, the lining of soft memory foam, and the soles of anti-slip rubber. Parts are 3D printed from body scans for an individual fit and greater comfort.
Press Kit
- 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.
- Dimensions & Packaging
- Dimensions: 220mm × 200mm × 540mm
Materials: Aluminum alloy frame, soft memory foam lining, rubber soles
Technology: Surface EMG sensors, linear actuators, microcontroller-based control
Power source: Rechargeable lithium battery, 7.4V, 5000mAh - 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.
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