Robotic Exoskeletons in Medicine
Author: tiger Published Under: Health
A medical group in Israel has recently announced a robotic suit that can be used to help paralyzed people walk.
The suit, which is called the ReWalk, consists of a metal backpack and braces that run down both sides of the leg. The braces are controlled by the backpack, which contains the batteries and computer components.
This creates what is often called a powered exoskeleton or robotic exoskeleton, which is basically a mechanical suit that can be worn to improve strength or functionality.
Using the ReWalk an individual is able to, with the aid of crutches, walk and even climb stairs.
The unit was developed by Doctor Amit Goffer, who is an Israeli engineer. Goffer is disabled, but is not able to use the ReWalk.
While the ability to allow an individual to walk is a very important part of this project, Goffer says his invention ultimately provides more of a psychological benefit.
The user must currently use crutches and the movements are rather slow, but because the user is able to stand upright and look others in the eye, Goffer, says it offers a very powerful physiological benefit to some people.
Goffers device will likely cost around $20, 000 and is currently being tested in both Israel and Connecticut. While very promising, this is not the first, nor is it the only current project aimed at creating a robotic exoskeleton.
A few years ago, Honda announced a robotic device that was designed to help make walking easier. The device assisted a person in walking by reducing the amount of weight on the legs.
Honda is still currently developing and testing their product which uses bodyweight support to reduce the amount of pressure on a persons legs and knees. They think the project will not only benefit the mobility challenged, but will also help factory workers who must bend and squat frequently.
There are also many other experiments dealing with creating robotic exoskeleton’s for those who are paralyzed, but it is also being looked at as a means of improving the physical limits of non-disabled individuals.
For instance, the United States Military is also looking into using this technology. The military version consists of a set of robotic arms and legs, which, when attached to the soldier, greatly improves the soldiers strength.
While using the robotic suit, the soldier is able to repetitively lift incredibly heavy objects, both with his arms and legs, yet is still capable of rather finite movements.