Newtonian Mechanics in research and design of motion assisting devices.

Newtonian mechanics is still successful today for the development of systems both in the industrial fields and in the services of human well-being. This paper presents the use of Newtonian mechanics both in terms of biomechanics and the design of motion assisting devices in the physiotherapy field for applications in the rehabilitation and exercise of elderly users. The analysis of the requirements for motion assistance of human limbs is conducted with specific reference to the characteristics of movement and action with typically Newtonian Mechanics models. Examples of the design and application of procedures based on mechanical modelling are reported with discussions which refer to systems that are developed with direct experiences by the author and his collaborators to demonstrate how Newtonian Mechanics is fundamental in the development of systems of a mechanical and non-mechanical nature.This article is part of the theme issue 'Newton, Principia, Newton Geneva Edition (17th-19th) and modern Newtonian mechanics: heritage, past & present'.