Design and Performance of an Elbow Assisting Mechanism
Round 1
Reviewer 1 Report
This paper investigated an elbow assisting mechanism. Theoretical analyses and experiments can be presented. The following comments are:
- The workspace of this kind of mechanism should be analyzed.
- Figure 11 shows the comparison between results of simulations and test. Why the different is too large at some angles. Please explain and analyze the reasons.
- Has the elastic deformation of the bar been considered?
- Do the driving force, control mode and power supply mode of servo motor meet the needs of practical use?
Author Response
see attacehd file
Author Response File: 
Author Response.pdf
Reviewer 2 Report
The authors are presenting an elbow assisting device actuated with a cable-driven parallel mechanism. The work looks interesting and can potentially be used for assistive devices. However, some parts need revision before it can be reassessed for publication in the journal of Machines.
The introduction is very narrow. One or two paragraphs should be added to discuss why the “cable-driven parallel mechanism” is the best technology for this purpose as there are many artificial muscle devices that can be used for the same purpose. For example, robotic arms have been demonstrated from untethered pneumatic actuators phase-change materials (g., 10.1126/scirobotics.aaz4239 and 10.1038/s41467-017-00685-3). Or, why not McKibben muscles?
The authors have mentioned that the device is low-cost. Is there any cost analysis in the manuscript?
As stated in Fig 2, speed is an important metric. How fast can the device operate (the whole actuation dynamic range).
What are the steps in reducing the weight of the structure without compromising the performance?
How many cycles can this device operate on battery (for average-size load)?
How does this compare with other exoskeletons and assistive devices for elbow assisting?
Author Response
see attacehd file
Author Response File: Author Response.pdf
Round 2
Reviewer 1 Report
The revised version improves the expression. It can be accepted.
Reviewer 2 Report
Good.
