‘Karl Zelik’
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...
Research Snapshot: Exosuit concept developed at Vanderbilt peeks at the future of wearable tech
Mar. 25, 2021—The idea Karl Zelik (Vanderbilt University) Erik Lamers (Vanderbilt University) Karl E. Zelik, assistant professor of mechanical engineering, and recent Ph.D. graduate Erik P. Lamers revealed a new exosuit designed to bring back relief to workers who have been under high strain throughout the pandemic, including last-mile delivery drivers and essential workers. The suit can...
Three Vanderbilt engineers among 2021 winners of NBJ’s 40 Under 40 Awards
Jan. 12, 2021—Vanderbilt engineers, two alumni and one faculty member, have been selected for the Nashville Business Journal’s 2021 40 Under 40 list. It recognizes the city’s most prominent young business leaders. Considered emerging business leaders, Julia Doolittle Whitacre, BS’06, engineering science, Austin Dirks, BE’08, biomedical engineering, and Karl Zelik, assistant professor of mechanical engineering, of biomedical engineering,...
Vanderbilt-developed exosuit spotlighted at annual D.C. showcase
Dec. 6, 2020—A back-assist exoskeleton developed at Vanderbilt University that blends comfort, ease of use and accessibility for all and is built for maximum range of motion is being recognized by the Association of American Universities and the Association of Public Land-Grant Universities for their annual innovation showcase. The maker of the exosuit, HeroWear, is one of...
Wearable sensor algorithms powered by machine learning could be key to preventing runners’ injuries
Oct. 28, 2020—A trans-institutional team of Vanderbilt engineering, data science and clinical researchers has developed a novel approach for monitoring bone stress in recreational and professional athletes, with the goal of anticipating and preventing injury. Using machine learning and biomechanical modeling techniques, the researchers built multisensory algorithms that combine data from lightweight, low-profile wearable sensors in shoes...
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...
Soldiers partner with Vanderbilt engineers to create a new model for innovation
Oct. 12, 2019—GPS, duct tape, microwaves and computers—these everyday items have one thing in common: Each invented, in part or in whole, as the result of U.S. military research. The military’s rich history of innovation continues today at numerous labs and engineering centers. There is a gap, however. There are myriad problems at the warfighter level that...
Five engineering faculty awarded Discovery Grants
Jun. 29, 2019—Five proposals from School of Engineering faculty have been selected by the Office of the Provost for 2019 Discovery Grants, which advance new ideas and cutting-edge scholarship in the university’s core disciplines. “Discovery Grants serve as a key internal funding vehicle for fostering research that has the potential to improve lives and address society’s complex problems—a vital part...