This project focuses on developing an energy-efficient actuated passive dynamic walker (Rando) to study how motion planning can reduce power consumption in walking devices. A battery-powered passive walker was built and programmed to mimic efficient human gait. The platform enables controlled experiments examining how variations in step length and step frequency influence the cost of transport. Before conducting energy expenditure trials, stable gaits were identified by analyzing step length under varying initial drop heights. These walking trials aim to explore how changes in motion planning impact overall power usage. Insights gained from this research can inform the design of assistive technologies, such as exoskeletons for paraplegics, by identifying strategies to minimize energy consumption. Ultimately, the findings could contribute to the development of more energy-efficient walking devices with extended battery life.
