Textile and Apparel Science

Development and Performance Evaluation of Fabric-based Pneumatic Soft Wearable Actuators for Lower Back Support

---

Abstract

Fabric-based pneumatic soft wearable actuators (FPSWAs) were developed using TPU-coated textiles, and their performance was evaluated through standardized material testing and electromyography (EMG). Durability and airtightness assessments supported the selection of a two-layer textile configuration, which was assembled into an octagonal-cell pneumatic actuator integrated into a lightweight stretchable band-type garment. The actuator demonstrated rapid inflation and generated a strong contraction force under 100 kPa pressurization. Participant testing during forward bending (45° and 90° flexion) revealed significantly reduced lumbar muscle activity when the actuator was activated compared to control conditions. These findings indicate that FPSWAs can provide lightweight, flexible support for the lower back and hold strong potential as assistive components in wearable robotic systems. Continued research involving a broader participant demographic and long-term comfort assessments is recommended.

Keywords: Fabric-based Pneumatic Soft Wearable Actuator, Lower Back Support, EMG Analysis, TPU-coated Textile, Soft Wearable Robotics

How to Cite:

Song, J., Cho, H., Lee, G., Cho, Y., Chung, J. & Koo, S., (2025) “Development and Performance Evaluation of Fabric-based Pneumatic Soft Wearable Actuators for Lower Back Support”, International Textile and Apparel Association Annual Conference Proceedings 82(1). doi: https://doi.org/10.31274/itaa.21487