‘CREATE’
New study reveals breakthrough tool to show how much exoskeletons reduce back injury risk
Nov. 30, 2021—A study led by researchers from Vanderbilt University’s Center for Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology reveals a breakthrough tool to assess the effect of exoskeletons on injury risk. The tool, called Exo-LiFFT, is an interactive calculator that will help companies looking for ways to overcome workforces struggling with musculoskeletal injuries, missed work, and accelerated retirement...
Faculty Innovator: Michael Goldfarb shows that taking the first step is possible
Sep. 24, 2021—Goldfarb (Vanderbilt) Using robotics to help individuals walk seemed like something out of a science fiction film until Michael Goldfarb and members of his lab made it a reality. Goldfarb, co-director of the Center for Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology and H. Fort Flowers Professor of Mechanical Engineering, knew from a young age that he...
Vanderbilt wearable exosuit that lessens back muscle fatigue could redesign the future of work
Sep. 30, 2020—Vanderbilt University engineers have determined that their back-assist exosuit, a clothing-like device that supports human movement and posture, can reduce fatigue by an average of 29–47 percent in lower back muscles. The exosuit’s functionality presents a promising new development for individuals who work in physically demanding fields and are at risk for back pain, including...
National Biomechanics Day draws 370+ visitors to assistive tech labs
Apr. 15, 2019—The Vanderbilt group organizing National Biomechanics Day event this year added video scripting and production to its skillset. The group of graduate students and undergraduates spent three months planning demonstrations, contacting schools and creating their two-minute promotional video, which won the award from the International Society for Biomechanics for the most retweeted video. The video, “Biomechanics...
ME senior and x-country Commodore takes on track, lab work and rocket design
Oct. 26, 2018—In the spring of 2017, Vanderbilt’s Sara Tsai suffered an Achilles injury during a routine workout. The injury would ultimately require surgery and force Tsai, a mechanical engineering senior, to miss her entire junior season as a distance runner at Vanderbilt. Tsai said that setback challenged her both emotionally and physically. But such adversity also...
Zelik named Emerging Leader by Chamber, YP Nashville
Jul. 31, 2018—An assistant professor of mechanical engineering has been named an Emerging Leader by the Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce and YP Nashville. Karl Zelik, who joined the School of Engineering faculty in 2014, received the distinction in the Architecture, Engineering & Construction category. He was among 75 finalists in 15 categories. His commitment to STEM...
CREATE labs recognized for impact of National Biomechanics Day event
Jun. 28, 2018—For the second year, the School of Engineering’s biomechanics and assistive rehabilitation labs have received top honors for an event that introduces young students to a dynamic field that includes exoskeletons, sports and prosthetics. Vanderbilt had one of three events recognized for “Greatest Impact” among the 150 held across the globe to mark National Biomechanics...
Smart prosthetic ankle moves with user over rough terrain
Jun. 26, 2018—It’s virtually impossible to know Mike Sasser’s left leg is a prosthetic one – after a decade of practice, he moves surely and swiftly through his busy days as a consultant and father. But when Sasser encounters uneven ground or a flight of stairs, he focuses very hard on balance, because that’s when using a...