Design and Development of Spinal Posture Corrector Using McKibben Artificial Muscles

Alexandru-Dumitrel Coadă, Matei-Gabriel Ghiorghie, Cătălin-Marian Orzan, Cristina-Maria Biriș *, Dan-Mihai Rusu

University “Lucian Blaga” of Sibiu, Engineering Faculty
Street Emil Cioran, No.4, Sibiu, Romania
* Corresponding author. E-mail: cristina.biris@ulbsibiu.ro

Robotica & Management, Vol. 30, No. 2, pp. 04-08
DOI: https://doi.org/10.24193/rm.2025.2.1

Abstract: With the rise of sedentary lifestyles, millions of people suffer from poor posture, particularly due to long hours spent sitting at desks. This poor posture, often referred to as kyphosis, is commonly characterized by slouching and an increased curvature of the upper spine, leading to discomfort and, in severe cases, long-term spinal damage. In this project, we present a novel back posture corrector that uses two air-controlled pneumatic artificial muscles to automatically adjust the user’s posture. The device is designed to gently pull the shoulders into an optimal position by applying a controlled force through pneumatic actuators. These artificial muscles are powered by air pressure, which allows for smooth and adjustable adjustments to the back posture. The system is integrated with a lightweight frame, padded shoulder harness, and a controller unit that ensures accurate adjustment based on timer code. When the user’s shoulders begin to slouch, the air pressure in the muscles is adjusted to pull them into the correct alignment, helping prevent further spinal misalignment and promoting good posture. The device offers a non-invasive and flexible solution for individuals suffering from poor posture, with the potential to improve spinal health and reduce the need for corrective surgeries in the future.

Keywords: Posture corrector, Control, McKibben muscles, Pneumatic, Wearable active device.

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