FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Repawse: A Technological Breakthrough in Pet Rehabilitation and Animal Welfare

Repawse, designed by Zhou Leijing and her multidisciplinary team in Hangzhou, has been recognized with the prestigious Silver A' Design Award for its pioneering approach to pet rehabilitation. Inspired by both personal experience and a growing societal need, Repawse addresses the limitations of traditional prosthetics for disabled animals by introducing an intelligent, humane, and highly customizable exoskeleton solution. The project began in 2023 and culminated in March 2025, reflecting extensive research, iterative prototyping, and a commitment to animal welfare.

What sets Repawse apart is its use of surface electromyographic (sEMG) sensors to detect muscle signals from a dog's healthy forelimb. These signals are processed in real time to predict the intended movement of the impaired hindlimb, activating lightweight linear actuators that synchronize gait and restore natural walking ability. The exoskeleton is custom-fitted using advanced 3D printing technology, ensuring optimal comfort, biomechanical alignment, and safety for each individual animal. Materials such as aluminum alloy, soft memory foam, and anti-slip rubber soles contribute to both durability and everyday usability.

The development of Repawse overcame significant technical and creative challenges, including interpreting animal muscle signals and engineering robust yet comfortable components. Drawing on active-control exoskeleton technology originally developed for human rehabilitation, the team adapted these innovations for veterinary use through field research and EMG data collection. The result is an active-assist device that not only aids in physical recovery but also upholds the dignity and quality of life for disabled pets. Repawse exemplifies how intelligent design and compassionate engineering can transform animal care, setting a new standard in the field of pet rehabilitation.

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