Aim & Scope
The Journal of Human Augmentation, Exoskeletons and Prosthetic Interfaces is dedicated to advancing the science and application of technologies that restore, assist, or enhance human movement and functional ability. The journal serves as a multidisciplinary platform for researchers, engineers, clinical specialists, and practitioners working on the development and integration of wearable assistive devices, prosthetic systems, and bio-interfacing technologies.
The journal’s primary aim is to publish high-quality research that contributes to the design, testing, and clinical implementation of technologies that interface directly with the human body. These may include powered or passive exoskeletons, myoelectric or brain-controlled prosthetics, sensory feedback systems, or assistive robotics used in rehabilitation settings. It also encourages submissions that examine the biomechanics, usability, comfort, safety, and long-term outcomes of such technologies in both clinical and real-world environments.
By supporting interdisciplinary inquiry and user-focused innovation, the journal contributes to the global effort to improve quality of life for individuals with mobility impairments, limb loss, or neuromuscular conditions. It also welcomes research that explores human augmentation technologies used in non-clinical domains, such as occupational support, military contexts, or space exploration, where physical extension or endurance enhancement is required.
Scope
The journal publishes a wide range of articles spanning engineering, neurotechnology, rehabilitation science, ergonomics, materials science, and biomechanics. The scope reflects the interconnected nature of assistive and augmentation systems, from control algorithms and sensor technologies to patient adaptation and regulatory considerations.
1. Prosthetic Interfaces and Control Systems
Manuscripts are welcomed that focus on the mechanical, electrical, and computational components of upper and lower limb prosthetics. Topics include:
- Electromyographic signal processing for limb control
- Pattern recognition and machine learning in prosthetic movement prediction
- Socket design and limb–device integration
- Adaptive feedback systems and real-time control adjustment
- Residual limb interface comfort and biomechanical loading
- Testing protocols for performance validation in lab and clinical settings
Studies may involve prototype development, comparative analysis, or user-centred evaluation.
2. Exoskeletons and Orthotic Systems
The journal supports research on powered or passive wearable systems designed to assist walking, lifting, or limb function. Topics include:
- Lower-limb exoskeletons for post-stroke or spinal cord injury rehabilitation
- Industrial or task-specific exosuits for occupational use
- Joint torque control and actuator design
- Gait analysis in augmented locomotion
- Kinematic and kinetic assessments of human–robot coordination
- Evaluation of exoskeletons in daily living environments
Submissions should discuss system architecture, testing outcomes, and user adaptation.
3. Neural and Muscular Interface Technologies
The journal welcomes work on systems that link neural or muscular activity with mechanical output or environmental response. Areas of focus include:
- Brain–computer interface development for assistive control
- Cortical and spinal decoding strategies
- Functional electrical stimulation integration with orthotics
- Surface or implanted EMG sensors for movement detection
- Interface training protocols and signal optimisation
- Cognitive load analysis during device use
Authors are encouraged to describe algorithmic approaches as well as real-time system responsiveness.
4. Sensor Systems and Feedback Mechanisms
Research is invited that enhances sensory perception or stability through technological integration. Relevant topics include:
- Haptic feedback and sensory substitution in prosthetics
- Pressure, load, and orientation sensors in wearable devices
- Multimodal feedback integration with user physiology
- Closed-loop control systems with biofeedback
- Tactile perception in limb replacement technologies
- Calibration of sensing systems in dynamic settings
Manuscripts should address technical specifications, validation methods, and user perception.
5. Materials, Ergonomics, and Design Innovation
Manuscripts focused on the structural, ergonomic, or aesthetic components of assistive devices are within scope. These may include:
- Lightweight composite materials for wearable comfort
- Modular joint systems and alignment stability
- Passive elasticity in orthotic structures
- Sweat, skin, and pressure tolerance in socket materials
- 3D printing applications in personalisation and fabrication
- Form factors designed for unobtrusive integration
Design-based submissions must include testing or evaluation outcomes.
6. Rehabilitation and Clinical Integration
The journal supports studies that evaluate assistive technologies in clinical settings. Topics include:
- Rehabilitation protocols involving robotic or wearable devices
- Outcomes measurement for physical function, independence, and adherence
- Therapist–patient interaction in device-supported therapy
- Longitudinal tracking of recovery or performance
- Interdisciplinary care models incorporating augmentation systems
- Usability studies in paediatric, geriatric, or high-dependency populations
Submissions should include standardised outcome tools or documented care pathways.
7. Simulation, Testing, and Safety Analysis
Articles are accepted that detail testing environments, safety frameworks, or simulation approaches used in device development. Topics may include:
- Human-in-the-loop simulation platforms
- Computational modelling of joint response or tissue interaction
- Mechanical testing standards for prosthetics and orthotics
- Fatigue, failure, and long-term wear testing
- Lab-to-clinic validation frameworks
- Safety protocols in dynamic assistive environments
Submissions should describe standardisation procedures and institutional approvals.
8. Societal Impact, Accessibility, and Ethics
The journal also publishes research and reflections on broader themes related to the adoption and impact of assistive technologies. Topics include:
- Regulatory frameworks and clinical approval pathways
- Cost, access, and reimbursement models
- Cultural attitudes toward human augmentation
- User agency, autonomy, and adaptive learning
- Ethical concerns in enhancement versus restoration
- Inclusion of persons with disabilities in co-design processes
Articles in this category may use qualitative or mixed-methods approaches.
The journal accepts submissions from researchers and practitioners across all global regions. Studies conducted in resource-limited settings, or those addressing context-specific adaptations, are highly encouraged.
All references cited in the text must be listed at the end of the manuscript. The journal accepts citations in APA style. Authors must ensure accuracy and consistency in referencing.
By providing a dedicated venue for high-quality research and multidisciplinary dialogue, the Journal of Human Augmentation, Exoskeletons and Prosthetic Interfaces contributes to the development of devices and systems that support human mobility, independence, and function in meaningful, measurable ways.
