Wednesday, August 27, 2008

Robo-skeleton lets paralysed walk

A robotic suit is helping people paralysed from the waist down do what was previously considered impossible - stand, walk and climb stairs.

ReWalk users wear a backpack device and braces on their legs and select the activity they want from a remote control wrist band.

Leaning forwards activates body sensors setting the robotic legs in motion.

Users walk with crutches, controlling the suit through changes in centre of gravity and upper body movements.

The device effectively mimics the exoskeletion of a crab.

Former Israeli paratrooper Radi Kaiof has been paralysed for the last 20 years following an injury during his service in the Israeli military.

He says the device has changed his life.

"I never dreamed I would walk again. After I was wounded, I forgot what it's like. Only when standing up can I feel how tall I really am and speak to people eye to eye, not from below."

Sweet. "Mimics the exoskeleton of a crab."

3 comments:

Beck said...

"Mimics the exoskeleton of a crab."

Curiously, the first thing that came to mind was Dr. Zoidberg doing the Curly shuffle... Woob woob woob!

Anonymous said...

Hooray for Zoidberg!

Beck said...

Once again, the conservative, sandwich-heavy portfolio pays off for the hungry investor!