Exoskeleton Suits Offer People With Mobility Disorders A New Alternative

Nov 6, 2010 by crazyblogger

we have had images about bionic devices which could be used to get a disabled person to walk again. As an example TV producers gave us Six Million Dollar Man, a person who was severely disabled and was not only brought back to life, but also to have superhuman abilities. What seemed like science fiction last century is about to become a reality in this century. By late next year, not one but several companies will be selling an exoskeleton suit which will allow even paralysed people to walk.

With a prices in excess of $100,000 for the first models, private ownership of exoskeletons will be only for the very rich. In the early years some wheelchair users may get access to an exoskeleton suit at a rehab center. However since so many manufacturers are coming to market at nearly the same time, and with several more under development, it’s not hard to imagine that competition and technological advances will eventually bring prices to a level which will make exoskeleton suits accessible to more and more of the more than 3 million wheelchair users in the USA.

But even at this price, it is far from certain which exoskeleton will be most successful. These manufacturers from different locations around the globe have created exoskeleton suits which are controlled differently. One exoskeleton relies upon neuronal sensors attached to the users body to determine what the wearer intends to do then the exoskeleton will perform the task. Another type of exoskeleton is operated by a joystick. Yet another detects upper body motion. Which is best? Each has its advantages and each has disadvantages.

And while they all have limitations they all have the same objective; to help people with disabilities to walk. Why is walking so important? Humans were not intended to sit for long periods of time. Prolonged sitting can cause several serious health problems including pressure ulcers a potentially life threatening condition. Even occasional use of the legs should enable wheelchair users to live a longer and healthier life.