Biomechanical experiments suggest that it may be possible to build a leg exoskeleton to reduce the metabolic cost of walking while carrying a load. A quasi-passive, leg exoskeleton is presented that is designed to assist the human in carrying a 75 lb payload. The exoskeleton structure runs parallel to the legs, transferring payload forces to the ground. In an attempt to make the exoskeleton more efficient, passive hip and ankle springs are employed to store and release energy throughout the gait cycle. To reduce knee muscular effort, a variable damper is implemented at the knee to support body weight throughout early stance.

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